Affecting Change

My Students

Our students engage with history via document based inquiry. This includes researching various sources and critically examining historical perspectives and interpretations. Their own questions and curiosities guide their thinking and process. The aim is to "understand history on its own terms."

The students at our school are a diverse group with varying ethnic, socioeconomic and academic backgrounds.

Though our school is wired for the latest technology, much of our equipment is outdated and limited. At the speed in which technology advances, it is difficult for students to effectively harness technology to be utilized in the most optimal manner beneficial to their learning. The technology available to students outside of school varies greatly, making it challenging to achieve some of the objectives of their project-based learning. Scientific and historical inquiry is difficult for most students but many are willing to rise to the challenge. Many students are disappointed with the quality of their final products, because of the limited resources available to them at home and at school. Others are intimidated because of their limited knowledge of technological tools. Having these resources will address all of these needs and support more collaborative, dynamic learning.

My Project

Integrated project-based learning entails student investigation and exploration as well as documentation, verification, and presentation of their findings in a variety of final products ranging from written, visual and oral formats. Students perform best when they go out into the "field" to conduct research. The waterproof-case protected iPads will allow students to conveniently record their findings without having to consider poor weather conditions. Both waterproof cameras will allow them to document their findings to use as evidence in their various final products. Ultimately, the goal is for students to share their scientific and historical inquiry results, findings, and solutions of environmental threats to the world's coral reefs with their school, community, and elected officials to bring awareness and effect positive change. Our students already have the desire to be global citizens, now they'll have the means.

Donations to this project will level the playing field for the technologically and financially challenged students.

They will be able to produce quality products in the format of their choosing, not to mention provide the documentation and evidence they gather from their research. Essentially, it will build up the confidence of students by giving them the experience and knowledge that they CAN be successful and truly make a difference in their community.