Week #11 Current Event

  Group 5 Article Choice for Week 11

“PENNSYLVANIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LAUNCHES CLASS-SIZED IMMERSIVE SIMULATOR”

By Dian Schaffhauser

http://thejournal.com/articles/2013/03/14/pennsylvania-elementary-school-launches-class-sized-immersive-simulator.aspx

On March 20, 2013, Shaler Area Elementary School in Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, launched the Dream Flight Adventure.  A classroom was converted into the bridge of a spaceship, the IKS Titan.  Students enter the simulator, each with an assigned role that they are responsible to perform to help the IKS Titan complete its mission, whether it is in outer space or in the deep ocean.  The missions, designed by professional educators, involve unique adventures that expose students to critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and effective communication with the use of 21^st century technology and skills.

“The IKS Titan classroom simulator makes learning fun and memorable and inspires students to develop greater knowledge and skills in STEM...” said Cindy Foht, school principal.  STEM, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.  Because of the potential shortage of employees in high-tech fields, educators are working hard to keep up with the emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math education. 

“Shaler Area School District has committed itself to interdisciplinary learning and development of 21^st Century skills among our students, and Dream Flight Adventures will be instrumental in taking this effort to the next level,” said Wes Shipley, superintendent of schools.

Dream Flight Adventures at a Glance

http://vimeo.com/62150983