Edvocate: How My Afterschool Program is Delivering Hands-on Learning to Students’ Homes
In this article, learn how Jane de Winter, from Big Learning in MD, has brought hands-on explorative learning to her students during the pandemic, and what she plans on doing with robotics moving forward.
Big Learning is an afterschool program serving 2,500 students annually in more than 60 schools across Montgomery County, MD. They offer a variety of subjects, including an eight-week Science & Engineering track geared towards pre-K–5.
About Their KIBO Experience
“Bringing hands-on learning to our students’ homes has been a logistical challenge, but we think it’s worth it. Here’s how we’re continuing to pursue our mission of inspiring and encouraging creativity, persistence, communication, and collaboration:
– Sending Robots Home
– Taking Advantage of the Home Environment
– Inspiring Collaboration and Communication
– Gathering Goods and Giving Grace
Parents and students really enjoyed having robots at home. In the words of one mother, “This class has been a joy for our whole family. My son does KIBO demonstrations not just for us, but for his grandparents over Zoom. It was a bright spot during this pandemic year. Thank you for offering it!”
