2024VSTE Annual Conference

Join us for an exciting program where we?ll explore how using robotics can make science more fun and improve your students' SOL scores! We?ll share easy-to-use strategies and hands-on activities that bring science concepts to life. Discover how robotics can help students understand and enjoy science, while also tackling the tough spots identified in SOL assessments. This program is perfect for teachers looking to inspire their students and boost their science achievement with engaging and effective tools.

How do makers self-assess? What can teachers do to encourage self-assessment in innovative and self-directed spaces? Find out in this interactive session as we discuss our own self-assessments during a make-and-take activity and then compare our own work with what researchers have to say about self-assessment and self-regulated learning.; How do makers self-assess? What can teachers do to encourage self-assessment in innovative and self-directed spaces? Find out in this interactive session as we discuss our own self-assessments during a make-and-take activity and then compare our own work with what researchers have to say about self-assessment and self-regulated learning.

Overview: This session offers an innovative approach to inquiry-based learning through the exploration of Virginia Beach's public art ViBe Creative District. Participants will embark on an easy, one-mile walking tour to view the district's vibrant murals by foot. Utilizing Canva, participants will engage in multimedia creation to explore and answer essential questions about the role and impact of public art. Essential Questions: What meaning can be conveyed through art? Participants will investigate how different forms of public art communicate messages, emotions, and narratives. They will explore how artists use symbols, colors, shapes, and materials to convey meaning. How does art bring people together? Participants will examine the social aspects of public art, considering how it can foster community, create shared experiences, and serve as a catalyst for dialogue and connection. Objectives: Inquiry-Based Learning: Develop critical thinking and inquiry skills by engaging with public art. Multimedia Creation: Utilize mobile devices and Canva to create multimedia projects that reflect participants' understanding and interpretations. Collaboration: Foster collaboration among participants as they explore, discuss, and create together. Activities and Structure: Introduction and Orientation: Overview of the ViBe Creative District and its significance. Introduction to essential questions and learning objectives. Demonstration of mobile devices and Canva software. Exploration and Research: Participants will visit various public art installations in the ViBe Creative District. They will use mobile devices to capture images, videos, and audio recordings. Research the background and context of the artworks and artists. Analysis and Interpretation: Group discussions to share initial observations and interpretations. Guided analysis activities to delve deeper into the meaning and impact of the artworks. Consideration of different perspectives and interpretations. Multimedia Project Creation: Participants will use Canva to create multimedia projects that express their findings and interpretations. Projects will include a combination of images, videos, narration, and music. Focus on answering the essential questions through creative expression. Presentation and Reflection: Participants will present their multimedia projects to the group. Reflection on the process and findings. Discussion on the power of multimedia in inquiry-based learning. Expected Outcomes: Enhanced understanding of the meanings conveyed through art and its role in bringing people together. Improved inquiry skills and the ability to conduct research and analysis. Proficiency in using mobile devices and multimedia tools for educational purposes. Strengthened collaboration and communication skills through group work and presentations. Resources Needed: Mobile devices (iPads or iPhones). Space for group discussions and project creation. Assessment: Evaluation of multimedia projects based on creativity, depth of analysis, and clarity in addressing the essential questions. Participant reflections on their learning experience and the impact of multimedia on their understanding. Feedback from peers and facilitators on presentations and group work. This program offers a dynamic and interactive way for participants to engage with art, develop inquiry skills, and harness the power of multimedia to express their insights and learning.

Join us for an engaging and interactive session at the Innovation Station, where we will explore the integration of drones in middle school STEM education. This hands-on workshop is designed to immerse educators in the exciting world of drone technology and its classroom applications. Participants will actively engage in learning how to safely operate drones, integrate this technology into their existing curriculum, and involve students in stimulating STEM projects. Practical examples and live demonstrations will showcase how drones can revolutionize learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. As the coach of a nationally ranked aerial drone team, I bring a wealth of experience in competitive drone operations and team management. This role has provided me with additional insights into the advanced applications of drone technology and effective teaching strategies for drone-related skills. The knowledge and skills gained from coaching will be invaluable in guiding educators during this interactive session.

Dancing robots and robot parades in social studies? Coding in science and math? This session explores ways to integrate arts and robotics into content to enhance learning and engagement.

Engage middle schoolers using programming, engineering design, and teamwork skills. This playfully competitive robot sport (where destruction is not the goal) helps students gain confidence with the foundations of robotics, and lets their creativity shine! Attendees will leave this session having competed in a hands-on battle using Finch Robots.