Encouraging STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through student participation and learning based on real-world phenomena.
In the heart of California, Baldwin Park High School is making waves in science education, with a focus on making subjects like biotechnology more engaging for students. Peter J. Smith, a science teacher and AVID Program Coordinator at the school, is spearheading this effort.
Smith believes that the key to student success lies in their engagement and motivation. By making learning relevant and exciting, he hopes to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for science among his pupils.
The interest in the environment, sustainability, and technology's potential to help the planet has already fueled the horticulture class at Baldwin Park High School. Smith employs a teaching strategy known as phenomenon-based learning, which involves explaining concepts through real-world examples.
One such example is the fact that most of the oxygen students breathe is generated in the ocean. Another intriguing phenomenon is the resilience of plants that spring back to life after prolonged periods without water.
The Corona-Norco Unified School District, of which Baldwin Park High School is a part, is already committed to providing comprehensive STEM and Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. This is evident in their annual Career Technical Education Expo, which showcases the district's dedication to meeting community and student career needs.
Student feedback plays a crucial role in the continuous evolution of Baldwin Park High School's curriculum. The school's ongoing student surveys at the beginning and end of each semester help determine areas of enjoyment and areas for improvement.
This student-centric approach has led to the introduction of new classes, such as a medical pathway due to increased interest in healthcare during the pandemic. Biotech has also become increasingly popular, with about 35-45% of the student body showing interest in the subject.
The school's forensic biology class is a testament to this student-led initiative. Initially started by a teacher, its continuation is due to the students' passion for it and its true crime connections.
Even when students show disinterest in a subject that still needs to be taught to meet standards, teachers at Baldwin Park High School take the feedback into consideration and look for ways to make the subject more engaging.
Baldwin Park High School is also part of the STEM Career Coalition, brought to schools by Discovery Education. This resource offers students opportunities to explore modern manufacturing and other career STEM opportunities.
In addition to forensic biology and horticulture, the school offers a wide range of STEM classes, including multiple career pathways such as medical, engineering, and computer-related ones.
By listening to students and implementing engaging lessons, Smith and the teachers at Baldwin Park High School are fostering a learning environment that encourages student buy-in, leading to progress and student-led initiatives such as clubs and additional action. The sea slug that eats algae and eventually starts photosynthesizing is just one of the many phenomena that students are now excited to explore.
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