Academics.
The vision for our program is to incorporate sections of academic content into students' projects where there will be no loss of academic rigour while still gaining other skills.
In fact, reaching out to Post-Secondary institutions has shown us that when having to choose between similar academic students, the student that has been involved in significant projects and community work will gain the spot.
Further proof comes in the form of these schools that have been highly successful in their project-based approach:
1. High Tech High is located at HTH Village in San Diego and serves students in grades 9-12.
2. Inquiry Hub, a new initiative by Coquitlam Open Learning and School District #43 for full-time students in grades 9-12.
3. Energetic Learning Campus, a campus of North Peace Secondary School.
4. West Hawaii Explorations Academy Public Charter School provides learning opportunities through integrative, hands-on, self-selected projects related to authentic, real-world problems. |
21st Century Skills.
21st Century Skills is a buzzword that continues to be heard in education. These skills are seen as important for students to be successful in the future.
- Creativity
- Collaboration
- Critical Thinking
- Community Involvement
- Communications
- Leadership
We feel our program, through internships, group and individual projects, and community connections will help cultivate this.
Videos about Project Based Learning
An Introduction to Project-Based Learning
- from edutopia (3:34)
Project Based Learning Explained - from The Buck Institute for Education (3:50)
West Hawaii Explorations Academy
- explains their Project Based Learning approach (8:57)
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award
Through SKY, students will have the opportunity to meet the requirements of this International Award. The Award is about personal challenge and development and is adaptable to each participant’s interests and abilities. For more information see the website: www.dukeofed.org
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Outcomes.
- Students will have developed identifiable “21st-century skills”, which will better prepare them for post-secondary education or direct employment.
- Students also will be able to give concrete examples of major projects that they have participated in that have meaningful community outcomes.
- Students will develop a rich portfolio of work that is well-suited for post-secondary applications and possible employment opportunities.
- After Grade 11, students will be able to continue the program in a Grade 12 cohort with courses that may include: English 12, Biology 12, Chemistry 12, Global Perspectives 12, Geography 12, Work Experience 12, and Independent Directed Studies 12.
Activity Fees
Students will be expected to participate in a variety of educational field trips such as: a September Retreat, Winter Outdoor Education, Spring Camping, and visits to public facilities. The total cost of these activities will be in the range of $1000 - $1200 per year, paid by installments.
Extended Field Trips
Each year, SKY students participate in 3 multiple-day field trips that focus on Environmental Awareness, Outdoor Education, and Student Collaboration. Current trips:
- September - Strathcona Park, Vancouver Island, 3 - 4 nights
- January - The Hive and Cypress Mountain
- May - Camping (Cultus Lake or Gulf Islands), 2 nights
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