Home > News > featured news > How an Open-World Video Game Teaches Kids STEM

How an Open-World Video Game Teaches Kids STEM

edsurge | April 22, 2019

Imagine learning math and science from the perspective of a middle or high school student. The student’s mental image of the subject is more than likely that of a textbook—dense, daunting, and dry—accompanied by a sigh exclaiming, “Please, anything but this!”Only the rare student, who already is passionate about the topic, would consider navigating a textbook alone or for pleasure. But the simple truth is that these books of isolated facts and abstract ideas have never been the way people have truly learned to view the world scientifically. The pursuit of questions that matter, in ways that stretch our imaginations and support a kind of playful engagement with ideas, has always been one of the defining characteristics of our species.Over the last few decades, research in educational psychology has shown that play, in particular, is how children develop the cognitive, social and communication skills needed to succeed in life. Play comes in many forms, and allows children to test their abilities, explore, invent, and most importantly—fail and learn from their mistakes. Learning through play is where children (and adults) develop higher-level thinking skills that enable them to be engaged and creative learners throughout life.

Spotlight

Tonka Online: K-12 E-Learning

Minnetonka Schools offers Tonka Online, an exceptional e-learning experience for students in grades K-12. This fully online program allows students anywhere in Minnesota to have access to the same highly qualified teachers and innovative curriculum that the Minnetonka Public School District is known for providing.

More featured news

Spotlight

Tonka Online: K-12 E-Learning

Minnetonka Schools offers Tonka Online, an exceptional e-learning experience for students in grades K-12. This fully online program allows students anywhere in Minnesota to have access to the same highly qualified teachers and innovative curriculum that the Minnetonka Public School District is known for providing.

Related News

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

D2L’s Refreshed Teaching and Learning Studio Welcomes Educators

D2L | January 25, 2023

On January 24, 2023, D2L, a worldwide learning technology firm, relaunched the D2L Teaching and Learning Studio, a platform for teachers, academics, instructional designers, and education leaders to discover new, inventive, and strategic methods to assist in the development of superior learning experiences. The D2L Teaching and Learning Studio allows educators to enhance personal and professional skills, join a community of like-minded educators, and gain knowledge of both innovative and existing teaching strategies and practices. The VP of Academic Affairs at D2L, Dr. Cristi Ford, said, "It's so important as educators and learning practitioners to keep our fingers on the pulse of change, to hear from our peers, and to expand our perspectives, knowledge, and know-how when it comes to creating learning experiences that resonate with students and get results." She added, "That's why I'm so happy we have the D2L Teaching and Learning Studio to share wisdom, ideas, and stoke the passion within us all to teach–and to learn." (Source – PR Newswire) The D2L Teaching and Learning Studio comprises the following: Teaching and Learning blog: A variety of thought-provoking, results-oriented writings by experts, thought leaders, teachers, and lecturers on creating more engaging and meaningful learning experiences and perspectives on education trends, difficulties, and opportunities. Master Class Series: In areas such as social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and inclusive learning environments, educators have access to free, high-quality professional development courses that concentrate on mastering the art and science of teaching. Teach & Learn podcast: The new Teach & Learn podcast, hosted by VP of Academic Affairs at D2L, Dr. Cristi Ford features honest talks with some of the brightest minds in K–20 education. About D2L D2L is a worldwide learning innovation firm that assists enterprises in reshaping the future of work and education. It believes that everyone deserves access to a high-quality education regardless of age, ability, or geography. It is revolutionizing the way the world learns, empowering students of all ages to do more than they ever thought possible. The tools, partners, and enormous ecosystem of D2L facilitate the online and in-person education of millions of students. Its expanding worldwide staff is motivated to create learning products that will alter the world by humanizing technology. D2L Corporation, D2L Ltd., D2L Asia Pte. Ltd., D2L Europe Ltd., and D2L Australia Pty Ltd. are members of the D2L family of enterprises.

Read More

ONLINE EDUCATION

ISS Hosts Virtual Workshop for K12 Educators on ChatGPT

International Schools Services | February 20, 2023

ISS, International Schools Services, has recently announced that it will be hosting an additional 90-minutes virtual workshop for K12 educators on ChatGPT. This workshop will help educators understand the implications of generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT in academics. ChatGPT is an AI tool having the capability to generate content which is quite like that of human creation. It gives direct implications for educational instructions, assessments, and assignments. Through the workshop, ISS would encourage educators to learn how this technology can transform learners' personalized learning experiences and explore its ethical use in the educational field. ISS offered virtual professional development during the pandemic, supporting classroom educators with online learning. In addition, its single sessions and ISS EDUlearTM passport subscription connected educators, school leaders, and professional staff. President of ISS, Liz Duffy, said, "The response to our events has been overwhelming. ISS is committed to helping K12 educators worldwide deliver the best education possible, especially when circumstances shift. ChatGPT and other AI tools aren't a fad. They have the potential to dramatically change what happens in the classroom—and that change is already beginning. Our session will help educators identify, use, and prepare for this disruption." (Source – Cision PR Newswire) "With Microsoft, Baidu, and Google now entering the Generative AI race, we're about to witness the rapid evolution of these technologies in real-time. We need to remain on the cutting edge of these innovative learning tools and their myriad of applications in education", said John Burns, Chief Innovation Officer of ISS. (Source – Cision PR Newswire) About ISS Headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, ISS, a non-profitable educational organization, has worked with international schools and educators since 1955. It offers more student-centric services, operating future-oriented schools, providing professional learning opportunities, sourcing school supplies and administrating school foundations, and promoting innovation. It has supported job-seeking educators and administrators, launched and managed international schools, provided school supplies, developed virtual and in-person learning programs for leaders and educators, and offered accounting and nonprofit board management. It currently operates around 20 international schools worldwide.

Read More

EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY

ViewSonic Unveils Hybrid Learning Innovations with Stunning 105" 5K Interactive Display at BETT 2023

ViewSonic | March 20, 2023

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, is launching a range of comprehensive education technology (EdTech) solutions, with the new addition to ViewSonic's revolutionary 5K 105" ViewBoard interactive display. In terms of software, highlights include ViewSonic's rich digital learning tools from the myViewBoard software suite, and the UNIVERSE by ViewSonic—a 3D virtual campus for online learning. The solutions will be exhibited in in-class, online, and hybrid learning scenarios at the BETT Show 2023 (British Educational Training and Technology Show) in London from 29 to 31, March. "ViewSonic is dedicated to offering innovative visual solutions from hardware, software, service, to digital content. We will continue to implement our Ecosystem as a Service (EaaS) strategy and work with partners across the industry to create a digital education ecosystem that is truly transformative," said Clifford Chen, General Manager of the Presentation Group at ViewSonic. "At ViewSonic, we believe that technology can expand what's possible in classrooms. The digital transition is the key to the future of education, which is why we've designed a range of advanced solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into learning environments of all kinds." As a leading EdTech solutions provider, ViewSonic's ViewBoard interactive displays and myViewBoard software suites are being adopted by educational institutions around the world. Ranging in size from 24" to 105", the company's ViewBoard is one of the most popular interactive displays in the world[1]; in Q4 of 2022, ViewSonic was ranked first in the global interactive display market, while the beginning of 2023 saw the myViewBoard ecosystem swell to over 8 million users. ViewSonic's display at BETT 2023 will offer attendees the ability to experience a range of EdTech solutions across different scenarios: Taking In-class Learning with Digital Content into the Future A teacher will use ViewSonic's ViewBoard IFP8652 4K display and the company's whiteboarding software to showcase how diverse pre-made digital lesson content from ViewSonic Originals, an online resource exclusively designed for interactive displays, can be used to create engaging learning experiences in the classroom. While more and more educational institutions are digitizing, ViewSonic Originals makes planning and running lessons easier by offering thousands of pieces of content within a user-friendly database. The company's latest environmental sensor, Sensor Box, will show how educational institutions can harness technology to optimize conditions such as air quality, humidity, temperature, and automatically switch displays on and off, allowing schools to adhere to the UK Green Building Council guidelines. Additionally, demonstrations of myViewBoard Manager Advanced software will provide insights into how IT departments can remotely manage an entire school's displays—including multimedia broadcasting, permission management, and addressing technical issues, all of which avoid interrupting classes and allow students to focus on learning. A New "UNIVERSE" in Online Learning Recognized by two distinguished EdTech Awards recently, ViewSonic's innovative UNIVERSE virtual learning platform opens up new opportunities in online learning. Attendees at BETT 2023 will be able to experience how UNIVERSE allows participants to engage in interactive classrooms with new 3D educational content and create unique learning spaces. The platform addresses some of the key challenges faced during online learning by increasing student engagement, encouraging collaboration, and fostering a sense of belonging among students. Going Hybrid in with Advanced Audiovisuals To show how higher education can be advanced using hybrid setups to ensure the best learning outcome, ViewSonic will be displaying the 5K 105" ViewBoard IFP105S, which features a 21:9 ratio display and multi-touch capabilities. Attendees will be able to see how students in-class and in other locations can collaborate simultaneously with a breeze. Further, the series is flawlessly complemented by ViewSonic's new Live Mosaic View feature for their latest VB-CAM-201-2. Powered by AI technology, Live Mosaic View can provide close-ups of participants and readjust the view based on each attendee's activity, ensuring that attendees and speakers are automatically framed and focused, offering a more immersive experience for hybrid meetings. [1] Source: FutureSource. Rankings include all markets except for China. About ViewSonic Founded in California, ViewSonic is a leading global provider of visual solutions and conducts business in over 100 countries worldwide. As an innovator and visionary, ViewSonic is committed to providing comprehensive hardware and software solutions that include monitors, projectors, pen displays, commercial displays, All-in-One LED displays, ViewBoard interactive displays, and myViewBoard software ecosystem. With over 35 years of expertise in visual displays, ViewSonic has established a strong position for delivering innovative and reliable solutions for education, enterprise, consumer, and professional markets and helping customers "See the Difference."

Read More

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

D2L’s Refreshed Teaching and Learning Studio Welcomes Educators

D2L | January 25, 2023

On January 24, 2023, D2L, a worldwide learning technology firm, relaunched the D2L Teaching and Learning Studio, a platform for teachers, academics, instructional designers, and education leaders to discover new, inventive, and strategic methods to assist in the development of superior learning experiences. The D2L Teaching and Learning Studio allows educators to enhance personal and professional skills, join a community of like-minded educators, and gain knowledge of both innovative and existing teaching strategies and practices. The VP of Academic Affairs at D2L, Dr. Cristi Ford, said, "It's so important as educators and learning practitioners to keep our fingers on the pulse of change, to hear from our peers, and to expand our perspectives, knowledge, and know-how when it comes to creating learning experiences that resonate with students and get results." She added, "That's why I'm so happy we have the D2L Teaching and Learning Studio to share wisdom, ideas, and stoke the passion within us all to teach–and to learn." (Source – PR Newswire) The D2L Teaching and Learning Studio comprises the following: Teaching and Learning blog: A variety of thought-provoking, results-oriented writings by experts, thought leaders, teachers, and lecturers on creating more engaging and meaningful learning experiences and perspectives on education trends, difficulties, and opportunities. Master Class Series: In areas such as social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and inclusive learning environments, educators have access to free, high-quality professional development courses that concentrate on mastering the art and science of teaching. Teach & Learn podcast: The new Teach & Learn podcast, hosted by VP of Academic Affairs at D2L, Dr. Cristi Ford features honest talks with some of the brightest minds in K–20 education. About D2L D2L is a worldwide learning innovation firm that assists enterprises in reshaping the future of work and education. It believes that everyone deserves access to a high-quality education regardless of age, ability, or geography. It is revolutionizing the way the world learns, empowering students of all ages to do more than they ever thought possible. The tools, partners, and enormous ecosystem of D2L facilitate the online and in-person education of millions of students. Its expanding worldwide staff is motivated to create learning products that will alter the world by humanizing technology. D2L Corporation, D2L Ltd., D2L Asia Pte. Ltd., D2L Europe Ltd., and D2L Australia Pty Ltd. are members of the D2L family of enterprises.

Read More

ONLINE EDUCATION

ISS Hosts Virtual Workshop for K12 Educators on ChatGPT

International Schools Services | February 20, 2023

ISS, International Schools Services, has recently announced that it will be hosting an additional 90-minutes virtual workshop for K12 educators on ChatGPT. This workshop will help educators understand the implications of generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT in academics. ChatGPT is an AI tool having the capability to generate content which is quite like that of human creation. It gives direct implications for educational instructions, assessments, and assignments. Through the workshop, ISS would encourage educators to learn how this technology can transform learners' personalized learning experiences and explore its ethical use in the educational field. ISS offered virtual professional development during the pandemic, supporting classroom educators with online learning. In addition, its single sessions and ISS EDUlearTM passport subscription connected educators, school leaders, and professional staff. President of ISS, Liz Duffy, said, "The response to our events has been overwhelming. ISS is committed to helping K12 educators worldwide deliver the best education possible, especially when circumstances shift. ChatGPT and other AI tools aren't a fad. They have the potential to dramatically change what happens in the classroom—and that change is already beginning. Our session will help educators identify, use, and prepare for this disruption." (Source – Cision PR Newswire) "With Microsoft, Baidu, and Google now entering the Generative AI race, we're about to witness the rapid evolution of these technologies in real-time. We need to remain on the cutting edge of these innovative learning tools and their myriad of applications in education", said John Burns, Chief Innovation Officer of ISS. (Source – Cision PR Newswire) About ISS Headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, ISS, a non-profitable educational organization, has worked with international schools and educators since 1955. It offers more student-centric services, operating future-oriented schools, providing professional learning opportunities, sourcing school supplies and administrating school foundations, and promoting innovation. It has supported job-seeking educators and administrators, launched and managed international schools, provided school supplies, developed virtual and in-person learning programs for leaders and educators, and offered accounting and nonprofit board management. It currently operates around 20 international schools worldwide.

Read More

EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY

ViewSonic Unveils Hybrid Learning Innovations with Stunning 105" 5K Interactive Display at BETT 2023

ViewSonic | March 20, 2023

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, is launching a range of comprehensive education technology (EdTech) solutions, with the new addition to ViewSonic's revolutionary 5K 105" ViewBoard interactive display. In terms of software, highlights include ViewSonic's rich digital learning tools from the myViewBoard software suite, and the UNIVERSE by ViewSonic—a 3D virtual campus for online learning. The solutions will be exhibited in in-class, online, and hybrid learning scenarios at the BETT Show 2023 (British Educational Training and Technology Show) in London from 29 to 31, March. "ViewSonic is dedicated to offering innovative visual solutions from hardware, software, service, to digital content. We will continue to implement our Ecosystem as a Service (EaaS) strategy and work with partners across the industry to create a digital education ecosystem that is truly transformative," said Clifford Chen, General Manager of the Presentation Group at ViewSonic. "At ViewSonic, we believe that technology can expand what's possible in classrooms. The digital transition is the key to the future of education, which is why we've designed a range of advanced solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into learning environments of all kinds." As a leading EdTech solutions provider, ViewSonic's ViewBoard interactive displays and myViewBoard software suites are being adopted by educational institutions around the world. Ranging in size from 24" to 105", the company's ViewBoard is one of the most popular interactive displays in the world[1]; in Q4 of 2022, ViewSonic was ranked first in the global interactive display market, while the beginning of 2023 saw the myViewBoard ecosystem swell to over 8 million users. ViewSonic's display at BETT 2023 will offer attendees the ability to experience a range of EdTech solutions across different scenarios: Taking In-class Learning with Digital Content into the Future A teacher will use ViewSonic's ViewBoard IFP8652 4K display and the company's whiteboarding software to showcase how diverse pre-made digital lesson content from ViewSonic Originals, an online resource exclusively designed for interactive displays, can be used to create engaging learning experiences in the classroom. While more and more educational institutions are digitizing, ViewSonic Originals makes planning and running lessons easier by offering thousands of pieces of content within a user-friendly database. The company's latest environmental sensor, Sensor Box, will show how educational institutions can harness technology to optimize conditions such as air quality, humidity, temperature, and automatically switch displays on and off, allowing schools to adhere to the UK Green Building Council guidelines. Additionally, demonstrations of myViewBoard Manager Advanced software will provide insights into how IT departments can remotely manage an entire school's displays—including multimedia broadcasting, permission management, and addressing technical issues, all of which avoid interrupting classes and allow students to focus on learning. A New "UNIVERSE" in Online Learning Recognized by two distinguished EdTech Awards recently, ViewSonic's innovative UNIVERSE virtual learning platform opens up new opportunities in online learning. Attendees at BETT 2023 will be able to experience how UNIVERSE allows participants to engage in interactive classrooms with new 3D educational content and create unique learning spaces. The platform addresses some of the key challenges faced during online learning by increasing student engagement, encouraging collaboration, and fostering a sense of belonging among students. Going Hybrid in with Advanced Audiovisuals To show how higher education can be advanced using hybrid setups to ensure the best learning outcome, ViewSonic will be displaying the 5K 105" ViewBoard IFP105S, which features a 21:9 ratio display and multi-touch capabilities. Attendees will be able to see how students in-class and in other locations can collaborate simultaneously with a breeze. Further, the series is flawlessly complemented by ViewSonic's new Live Mosaic View feature for their latest VB-CAM-201-2. Powered by AI technology, Live Mosaic View can provide close-ups of participants and readjust the view based on each attendee's activity, ensuring that attendees and speakers are automatically framed and focused, offering a more immersive experience for hybrid meetings. [1] Source: FutureSource. Rankings include all markets except for China. About ViewSonic Founded in California, ViewSonic is a leading global provider of visual solutions and conducts business in over 100 countries worldwide. As an innovator and visionary, ViewSonic is committed to providing comprehensive hardware and software solutions that include monitors, projectors, pen displays, commercial displays, All-in-One LED displays, ViewBoard interactive displays, and myViewBoard software ecosystem. With over 35 years of expertise in visual displays, ViewSonic has established a strong position for delivering innovative and reliable solutions for education, enterprise, consumer, and professional markets and helping customers "See the Difference."

Read More

More featured news