Stepping into the HundrED Global Collection 2024 as Twin Science & Robotics’ co-founder was more than an honor; it was a moment of reflection on our unwavering mission. Our dedication to intertwining STEAM with sustainability was recognized globally, validating our efforts to prepare young minds for a future where they lead with innovation and compassion. This recognition is not just for Twin Science & Robotics but for every educator and student who believes in the transformative power of education.
In this post, I’ll take you through our alignment with HundrED’s mission, approach to STEAM education, and shared vision for a sustainable future.
Identifying the Educational Imperative
Our mission at Twin Science & Robotics is rooted in the belief that education needs to evolve. We face a world where traditional educational methods are losing their efficacy, and the urgency of sustainability must be addressed. Our work, recognized by HundrED, addresses this by embedding critical thinking, creativity, and environmental stewardship into the fabric of our STEAM curriculum.
The Need for Agile Education Systems
In educational innovation, a stark contrast emerges when comparing traditional systems to the dynamic nature of nonprofits, where approximately 75% of innovations occur. Traditional education, often likened to a drogher, lacks agility and the ability to navigate the open seas of modern challenges. It remains anchored, needing help to adapt quickly to the changing needs of society. Today’s world demands more than problem solvers; it requires critical thinkers capable of identifying pertinent issues and responsible decision-makers prioritizing sustainable living over excessive consumption.
I’ve observed how HundrED’s model, focusing on identifying and scaling impactful innovations, mirrors our journey. Twin Science emerged from a deep understanding that the future of education lies in integrating STEM with humanitarian values and sustainability. This alignment is a testament to our shared mission with HundrED.
HundrED’s framework emphasizes identifying transformative educational practices and ensuring they reach a wider audience. This resonates with our approach at Twin Science, where we strive to create tools that are not just educational but also serve as catalysts for societal change. Our AI-powered lesson plans and hands-on kits embody this vision, aiming to transform passive learning into an active process of exploration and problem-solving.
Our journey parallels HundrED’s mission in several ways. Firstly, our innovation in education reflects HundrED’s commitment to finding scalable and impactful educational methods. We both recognize the need for a shift in traditional teaching methodologies, embracing a more holistic and student-centered approach. Our AI-powered teacher platform and gamified student app are prime examples of this, blending technology with pedagogy to create an engaging and practical learning experience.
Secondly, just as HundrED aims to amplify innovative solutions for a global audience, Twin Science & Robotics has expanded its reach to various countries, impacting over 750,000 students. Our international presence underscores our commitment to making quality education accessible to all, irrespective of geographical boundaries. HundrED’s model of scalability and impact aligns with our goal of reaching every child, offering them the tools to become change-makers in their communities.
Lastly, the HundrED model champions collaboration and community-building, values we hold dear at Twin Science. We believe in the power of partnership and community engagement to drive educational innovation. Our collaborations with educators, parents, and students are crucial in refining our offerings and ensuring they remain relevant and practical.
In summary, HundrED’s model reflects our journey at Twin Science & Robotics. Our shared values and objectives underscore our commitment to revolutionizing education through innovative, scalable, and impactful solutions. We are honored to be part of the HundrED community and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to reshape education for a sustainable future.
The ‘Why’ Behind Our Innovation
Simon Sinek’s ‘Golden Circle’ model, as presented by HundrED, encapsulates the essence of our approach—start with ‘Why.’ ‘Why’ signifies our commitment to every child’s flourishing. Our ‘How’ involves harnessing a community of educators and parents to bring our ‘What’—Twin’s innovative STEAM solutions—to life. This model is a blueprint for our actions and reaffirms our goal to inspire children to become empathetic leaders and innovators.
To make a difference truly, we must start with a vital purpose, a compelling reason that propels us forward. For Twin, this purpose is clear – to empower every child to flourish and become an agent of change in a rapidly evolving world.
Our ‘Why’ is rooted in the belief that education should be more than just an accumulation of knowledge. It should be a transformative experience that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. This ethos led us to develop innovative STEM solutions to meaningfully inspire and engage young minds. Through our interactive digital app and hands-on kits, we aim to provide children with a holistic learning experience that blends scientific knowledge with humanitarian values.
Moreover, our ‘Why’ aligns perfectly with HundrED’s mission of transforming education. Like HundrED, we recognize the need for educational models that are adaptable, impactful, and scalable. By focusing on ‘Why,’ we ensure that our innovations are technologically advanced and culturally and socially relevant. This alignment with HundrED’s vision strengthens our resolve to create educational experiences that are intellectually stimulating and emotionally and socially enriching.
Diverse Perspectives on Education’s Future
Educational philosophies vary significantly—some advocate for a universal, standardized approach, emphasizing the urgency of addressing global educational needs. In contrast, others argue for a more contextualized, localized education system tailored to the unique needs of different communities. At Twin Science & Robotics, we champion a values and skills-based education system, focusing on the personalized learning journey of each child. Our approach places cognitive, social, and emotional learning skills at the forefront, showcasing common global challenges like climate change and pollution. Though these issues vary in impact across regions, they universally affect us.
Amplifying Our Core Values: Keywords of Change
In educational innovation, keywords often serve as beacons, guiding the direction of progress. At Twin Science & Robotics, specific keywords resonate with our core values, echoing through our every initiative. These keywords – ‘critical thinking,’ ‘sustainability,’ ‘compassion,’ and ‘professional development’ – are not mere buzzwords; they are the pillars upon which we build our educational philosophy.
Our commitment to these values is reflected in our collaboration with HundrED. The HundrED community’s focus on similar values reinforces our belief in the transformative power of education. Critical thinking lies at the core of our approach, encouraging students to question, analyze, and innovate. Sustainability is another critical area, guiding us to design solutions that educate and inspire students to become stewards of the planet.
Compassion is integral to our mission, as empathy should be a cornerstone of education. It’s not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing kind, considerate, and socially responsible individuals. Professional development for educators is equally crucial, as it ensures that the facilitators of learning are equipped with the latest tools and methodologies.
The presence of these keywords in HundrED’s innovation trends validates our direction. It serves as a reminder that our mission aligns with a global movement towards more holistic, inclusive, and forward-thinking education. By amplifying these core values, we contribute to the educational discourse and take active steps toward shaping a future where education is the foundation of a better, more sustainable world.
Fostering a Sustainable Future Through Education
Our hope is bolstered by observing that many selected innovations at HundrED 2024 echo our commitment to sustainability. This trend is heartening, and we aspire to see more organizations join this mission for a sustainable future. The need for sustainable education transcends geographical boundaries, as issues like air and plastic pollution impact every individual, regardless of location.
Bridging the Gap with Hands-On & A Blend of Digital and Physical Solutions
Our response to the educational challenge is hands-on, engaging, and digitally integrated. We provide tools for children to learn and apply their knowledge in ways that benefit our planet. This approach is creating a new paradigm in education, one where sustainability and technology meet, preparing our students for the green jobs of the future.
Empowering Educators for the Future
A significant focus at Twin Science & Robotics is the professional development of educators. Recognizing teachers as pivotal in the learning process, Twin serves as a digital assistant, offering engaging and beneficial solutions for both students and teachers. Our platform empowers educational organizations, enabling them to impact schools most effectively. By bridging cutting-edge educational innovations with children, Twin sets the stage for a more informed, capable, and sustainable future.
Realizing the Impact
The HundrED recognition is a testament to the positive change we are fostering. Our programs ignite a passion for learning and innovation in over 750,000 children across multiple countries. The benefits of our approach are clear: heightened academic engagement, enhanced problem-solving skills, and a new generation of students empowered to make sustainable choices.
Twin’s Role in Transforming Education
Twin Science & Robotics is a comprehensive platform that equips educational entities to make a profound impact. By connecting the best educational innovations with students worldwide, Twin is not just an educational tool; it’s a bridge that brings transformative learning experiences directly to classrooms. This approach ensures that the potential of every child is unlocked, aligning with our vision of a world where education is the cornerstone of sustainable development and innovation.
Conclusion
Our recognition at HundrED Global Collection 2024 is more than an honor; it reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation through STEAM education. It underscores our belief that we can prepare children to adapt to the future and shape it with the right tools and approach. Join us on this journey, and let’s make education the foundation of a sustainable, innovative, and equitable world. Together, we can foster a generation of learners who are not only tech-savvy but also profoundly attuned to the health of our planet.
In our world, education links countries and cultures, creating peace and understanding. Twin Science & Robotics is leading this effort. By combining STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) with sustainability, Twin is getting a new generation ready to tackle global issues together. This post looks at Twin’s fresh way of learning that shapes young minds for a united future. Be part of an educational journey that’s as thrilling as it is meaningful.
Think of a classroom that has no borders, where learning about science and tech also means learning about being a citizen of the world and peace. Twin Science & Robotics sees STEAM education as the key to a future where we all live sustainably. Here, we explore how Twin is leading a worldwide movement, using science to bring students from all over together. Join an educational change that’s about gaining knowledge and making the world better.
Celebrating World Science Day for Peace and Development
Every year on November 10th, people around the world celebrate World Science Day for Peace and Development. This day is more than just a party; it reminds us of the big role science has in our lives and the need to talk about new science issues with everyone. It’s a day for countries to come together in science, to promise to use science to help society and to support scientists.
Science education is super important for sustainable development. It helps us solve big problems like climate change, harming the environment, and social unfairness. Science education isn’t just about learning facts; it’s about growing a way of thinking and acting that uses science to help everyone. It’s about making a culture of peace and growth through shared knowledge and new ideas.
The United Nations says STEM education is crucial for sustainable development and wants more investment in STEM education to solve global problems.
The World Economic Forum says STEM skills are needed for future jobs, with 65% of children starting school today ending up in jobs that don’t exist yet.
In short, World Science Day for Peace and Development is a call to use science for the good of society and the world. It’s a time to think about how science education can lead to sustainable development and peace.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Blueprint for Action
The SDGs are important because they give us a plan for a better world for everyone, now and in the future. They ask all countries to work together to make life better while taking care of the planet. They say that to stop poverty, we also need to grow our economies and take care of social needs like education, health, and jobs, and at the same time, fight climate change and protect the environment.
The goals cover a lot, like poverty, hunger, health, education, gender equality, clean water, and affordable energy. To reach these goals, governments, businesses, societies, and people need to work together. We can track progress with 232 indicators, which show us how well we’re doing and where we need to do more.
In the end, the SDGs are a strong promise to finish what we’ve started and to make sure no one is left out. They are an urgent call for all countries to work together. They show that stopping poverty and other problems must happen alongside making health and education better, reducing inequality, and growing the economy – all while dealing with climate change and protecting our oceans and forests.
For teachers, this means making lessons that teach STEAM and also help students think about the whole world. It’s about pushing students to think bigger than their own backyard and see how what they do affects the whole planet. Teachers can do this by using examples from around the world in their lessons, linking science to big issues, and getting students to work with others across the globe online.
School leaders can help by making connections with schools in other countries, holding international STEAM events, and making sure the lessons look at the big picture. This doesn’t just make learning better; it also gets students ready for a world where working with people from different cultures is normal.
The Twin Science & Robotics Approach: Innovating for Peace
Twin Science & Robotics knows that peace isn’t just about stopping fights; it’s about coming up with new ideas to solve world problems. Our way of teaching STEAM is made to grow tomorrow’s innovators and peacemakers by sticking to ideas of sustainability and working together. We give teachers AI tools that make planning lessons easy and powerful, so they can focus on teaching skills like empathy, teamwork, and talking well.
Our hands-on kits are more than just for learning; they help build peace by making students solve problems together. The student app is fun and lines up with the UN goals, turning big ideas into real things students can work towards together. This way of teaching doesn’t just make grades better; it also plants the seeds of peace through understanding and teamwork.
Teachers should use these tools to make a classroom where students learn to talk well, respect different ideas, and work well in groups. School leaders can back this up by offering training in solving conflicts and learning together.
Empowering Through Inclusion and Diversity
Twin Science & Robotics believes that a classroom full of different kinds of students is the best place for new ideas. We want to close the gender gap in STEM by making a space where all students, no matter their gender, can learn and be great in these areas. Our teaching stuff is made to be fair to everyone, so it can speak to and excite all students.
For teachers, this means really pushing for boys and girls to be equal in class, showing how women have done great things in STEAM, and fighting against ideas that might stop girls from loving science and tech. It’s about having role models and making sure every student feels important and able.
School leaders are key to this by making rules that support diversity and fairness, like hiring teachers fairly and making sure school stuff shows they care about equality. This not only makes learning better but also helps make society fairer.
Fostering Future Skills for a Changing World
The world of work and society is changing fast, and Twin Science & Robotics is all about getting students ready with the skills they’ll need. Our lessons are about more than just facts; they’re about growing skills like thinking hard, solving problems, and being able to change—skills that are super important in a world where we don’t know what jobs will be around later.
Teachers can grow these skills by using projects based on real-life problems, making students ask questions, and valuing curiosity. It’s about moving past just memorizing and towards a way of learning that gets students ready for what’s coming.
School leaders can help by getting the newest tech for students and making places where they can try new things and be creative. This keeps the school ahead in teaching and makes sure students are prepared for the future.
6 Tips for Educators: Engaging Students on World Science Day for Peace and Development
Hey there, educators! With World Science Day for Peace and Development on the horizon, it’s the perfect opportunity to spark your students’ curiosity and passion for science. Here are six tips to make science both fun and meaningful in your classroom:
Host a “Science for Peace” Workshop: Get your students involved by having them create projects that demonstrate how science contributes to peace and human progress. It’s a great way to show the impact of science beyond the lab!
Connect Classrooms Across Borders: Partner with a school from another part of the world and collaborate on a science project. It’s a fantastic way to teach students about different cultures and the universal language of science.
Kickstart a Community Eco-Project: Challenge your students to come up with science-based solutions to environmental issues in your area. Showcase their projects as part of your World Science Day celebrations!
Bring in Twin Science Kits for a Global Lesson: Use Twin Science & Robotics kits to tackle a worldwide problem, like clean energy. It’s a hands-on way to connect global issues with local learning.
Debate the Role of Science in Peace Building: Set the stage for a lively debate on how science can build bridges between communities. Topics can range from ethical scientific practices to the role of tech in cultural understanding.
Incorporate the Twin App for Interactive Learning: Make the most of the Twin student app by weaving it into your lesson plans. Let your students embark on gamified missions that underscore teamwork and sustainable thinking.
These tips are designed to create an engaging and thought-provoking experience for your students, emphasizing the role of science in creating a more peaceful and sustainable world. Let’s inspire our young learners to be the problem-solvers of tomorrow!
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Global Education Reform
Twin Science & Robotics’ mission is bigger than just school; it’s a call for a worldwide change in education that makes STEAM part of doing good for everyone. We invite teachers and school leaders to join us on this changing path. By using our new tools and ways of teaching, you’re part of a group that’s not just teaching but also shaping the problem-solvers of tomorrow.
For teachers, it means trying new tech and ways of teaching that make students think about the whole world and how to live sustainably. For school leaders, it means leading the way in using teaching practices that get students ready for future challenges. Together, we can make an education system that doesn’t just teach facts but also helps make a sustainable and peaceful world.
Let’s come together for this change in education. Let’s get our students ready not just for future jobs, but for the future of our planet.
Register for a free trial at Twin to make a lasting legacy of learning.
One of the most critical factors shaping our future is the concept of sustainability. Our planet’s resources are limited and delicately balanced, making it imperative for us to build a sustainable future through eco-friendly solutions and intelligent technologies. In this context, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, which encompasses the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, plays a crucial role in achieving a sustainable future. In this blog, we will explore why STEM education is essential for securing a sustainable future.
Sustainability involves addressing various global challenges to protect our future. Solutions to issues like climate change, environmental pollution, and resource depletion rely on a scientific approach. STEM education empowers children with scientific thinking and methods, enabling them to effectively tackle these challenges.
2. Eco-friendly innovations for efficiency:
STEM education develops technological knowledge and skills. This leads to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly technologies. Innovations such as energy-efficient devices, renewable energy sources, and smart cities are fundamental building blocks of a sustainable future.
3. Environmental consciousness and conservation:
STEM education instills in children the importance of the environment and nature. Consequently, future generations grow up as conscious and responsible individuals committed to preserving natural resources and managing the environment sustainably.
4. Social and economic impact:
Sustainability is not only about preserving the environment but also encompasses social and economic development. STEM education plays a vital role in producing a qualified workforce, contributing to economic growth. Additionally, it fosters the development of social projects and raises awareness within communities.
5. Preparing future leaders:
STEM education plays a pivotal role in preparing future leaders. Competent individuals in the scientific and technological fields become pioneers in solving global challenges and offering innovative solutions. Leadership skills are essential in building a sustainable future, and STEM education contributes to their development.
Conclusion:
Working towards a sustainable future is a vital mission for both our planet and humanity. STEM education prepares future generations as informed, responsible, innovative, and visionary individuals. With scientific thinking, technological innovation, and environmental consciousness, STEM education contributes to a sustainable future. By emphasizing the importance of STEM education, we can support the creation of a sustainable and bright future. Let us nurture our children and youth by valuing STEM education, enabling them to become architects of a powerful and enlightened future.
The world is facing urgent environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. STEM for Sustainability subjects such as green tech, sustainable design, renewable energy, and tech4good offer solutions and hands-on projects to these complex problems. Schools must keep up with the changing times by incorporating STEM for Sustainability into their Design and Technology curriculum.
Incorporating STEM for Sustainability subjects into Design & Technology curriculum is not only equipping pupils with valuable knowledge and skills and empowers them to become agents of positive change in their communities and the world at large. Moreover, green-tech subjects are highly relevant to the current job market. Many industries and businesses are shifting towards sustainable practices and seeking professionals who can contribute to this transition. Design & Technology prepares pupils for a sustainable future.
This article will explore the benefits of incorporating STEM for Sustainability in Design and Technology classrooms, examples of successful implementations, the impact on student learning, the future of these subjects in education, and tools and resources for designing and implementing a Design and Technology curriculum.
Importance of Design and Technology
Design and Technology are two subjects that work well together. Design encourages creativity and problem-solving, helping pupils ideate creative solutions to the world’s challenges. Technology provides the tools to bring those ideas to life. When pupils are given the opportunity to work on hands-on Design and Technology projects, they can develop a wide range of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication. These skills are highly valued in the workforce, making Design and Technology a valuable addition to any school’s curriculum.
Another benefit of incorporating Design and Technology in the classroom is that it makes learning more engaging and meaningful for pupils. When pupils are able to work on projects that are relevant to their interests and passions, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their learning. Design and Technology projects also allow pupils to see the real-world applications of what they are learning, which can help to make the learning experience more meaningful.
Examples of Successful Implementation in Schools
by Marcus Culverwell, Headteacher at St Mary’s
“Unless we teach the children coming up through our schools how to embrace the challenges and how to apply new technologies in order to tackle these critically important issues; such as climate change, food security, and water scarcity, they are destined to repeat the mistakes of their parents’ generation placing economic growth and profit above people and the planet.
This is why I strongly believe that we need to redesign our curriculums to incorporate STEM for Sustainability and a deep understanding of why the problems of over-consumption, waste and ecosystem resource depletion are so serious. Even more importantly, we need to equip the young people in our schools today, not just with the knowledge, but with the heart and desire to want the change. That is why Twin’s STEM for Sustainability solutions are invaluable to our school.”
GEMS School is dedicated to providing a world-class education to its students. GEMS School strongly focuses on sustainability and is committed to fostering an understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among its students. To ensure that these goals are embedded in the curriculum, GEMS School partnered with Twin, and they used Twin’s education solutions to create an engaging and interactive learning experience for its students. Through the use of Twin App’s engaging games, GEMS School students explored various topics related to sustainability, such as responsible environmental practices, applications for the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the importance of protecting our planet.
The Impact of Design and Technology on Student Learning
Integrating STEM for Sustainability into Design and Technology Education has a positive impact on student learning. Students who participate in STEM for Sustainability projects have higher levels of engagement, motivation, and achievement than those who did not. STEM for Sustainability projects also provide opportunities for students to develop 21st-century skills that are highly valued in the workforce. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication. By integrating STEM for Sustainability into Design and Technology Education, students are better prepared to succeed in the workforce and life.
The Future of STEM for Sustainability
As the world becomes increasingly focused on sustainability, it is likely that STEM for Sustainability will play an important role in the future of Design and Technology Education. In fact, STEM for Sustainability will become a core part of the curriculum in the years to come. This is because these subjects provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a world that is facing urgent environmental challenges.
As STEM for Sustainability continues to evolve, it is important that schools stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. This includes providing teachers with professional development opportunities to help them develop their skills and stay current with the latest trends. It also means investing in technology and resources that can help support STEM for Sustainability projects in the classroom, and preparing students for a sustainable future.
Tools and Resources for Design and Technology Curriculum
Twin Science & Robotics offers a comprehensive set of educational solutions designed to help schools implement STEM for Sustainability education into their Design and Technology classes. With Twin’s Teacher Platform, teachers can access curriculum-aligned lesson plans and resources, track their students’ progress and skill development, and use any available content module to match their students’ pace. The Twin Mobile App provides an educational platform for children to learn about STEM-based sustainability topics through interactive content, games, and challenges.
Twin’s STEM kits provide children with the opportunity to design and build their own hands-on prototype projects for future problems, using modular electronic bits and pieces to learn how to build robots, write code, and prototype inventions that work in the real world.
Additionally, the Skill Report for parents and teachers provides comprehensive insight into their children’s learning outcomes, skill development progress, and areas of interest, which can be used to guide and support their learning.
By utilizing Twin’s educational solutions, schools can effectively integrate STEM for Sustainability education into their Design and Technology classes, ensuring that students are well-equipped to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, STEM for Sustainability has the potential to transform Design and Technology Education. By integrating sustainability concepts into the curriculum, students can learn to become critical thinkers and problem solvers who are prepared to tackle real-world challenges. With the help of Twin’s Teacher Platform, Student App and STEM kits, students can explore and learn about STEM-based sustainability topics in an engaging and fun way.
To stay ahead of the curve, schools must continue to embrace the latest trends and technologies and provide teachers with the support and resources they need to effectively teach Design and Technology. With these efforts, we can ensure that our students are prepared for a successful future that prioritizes sustainability and innovation.
Sustainability and environmental education is an important part of our future. We have a responsibility to the planet and to future generations to ensure that our actions today are sustainable and that we are taking steps towards a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future. One way to do this is by teaching Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a set of 17 goals established by the United Nations to tackle global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of teaching Sustainable Development Goals and how to do it effectively. We will discuss the benefits of SDG education, strategies for teaching SDGs, resources for teaching SDGs, and how to measure the impact of SDG education. We will also look at how technology can be used to teach SDGs. By the end of this blog, you will have a better understanding of how to introduce sustainability and environmental education in your classroom or organization.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals that aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people have access to quality education, health care, and economic opportunities. The SDGs were launched in 2015 and are the successor to the Millennium Development Goals. They are a call to action for all countries to take urgent action to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation.
The SDGs are not only a set of goals, but also a blueprint for creating a more sustainable world. They are a universal call to action to governments, businesses, and people everywhere to work together to ensure that all people can live a healthy and fulfilling life, while also protecting the planet.
These goals are interlinked and, together, they provide a comprehensive framework for creating a sustainable and equitable future. They are also a reminder that, while progress has been made in some areas, there is still much work to be done in others.
The Benefits of Sustainable Development Goal Education
There are many benefits to teaching Sustainable Development Goals. By teaching SDGs, students will gain an understanding of the global challenges we are facing, as well as the solutions that are needed to address them. They will learn about the importance of sustainability and the need to take action to protect the planet.
In addition, teaching SDGs can help to foster a sense of hope and possibility. By showing students that the world is not beyond repair and that there are solutions to the challenges we face, they will be more likely to get involved and take action.
Teaching SDGs can also help to develop critical thinking skills, as students will be encouraged to think about the interconnectedness of global issues and how their actions can have an impact. Finally, teaching SDGs can help to foster empathy and understanding, as students learn about the importance of working together to create a more just and sustainable world.
Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. It is a threat to our planet, our health, and our future. Therefore, it is essential that students learn about the causes and effects of climate change, and how they can take action to mitigate its impacts.
The Sustainable Development Goals provide an excellent framework for teaching climate change. SDG 13 calls for “Climate Action” and calls on countries to take urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adapt to the impacts of climate change. SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life On Land) also call for action to protect the world’s oceans and forests, which are essential for mitigating the impacts of climate change.
By teaching climate change within the context of the SDGs, students will gain an understanding of the importance of taking action to protect the planet and how their actions can have an impact.
There are many strategies for teaching Sustainable Development Goals effectively. One approach is to focus on one SDG at a time. This allows students to gain a deeper understanding of each SDG and how it relates to the others.
Another approach is to use case studies to explore the SDGs. This can help students to gain an understanding of how the SDGs are being implemented in different countries and contexts. It can also help to bring the SDGs to life and make them more relatable.
In addition, students can be encouraged to take action to support the SDGs. This could include writing letters to politicians, taking part in campaigns, or volunteering in their local community. By taking action, students will gain an understanding of how their actions can contribute to the achievement of the SDGs.
Twin’s Free Sustainability Lesson Plan // Download – Through interactive activities, group discussions, and resources such as videos, slideshows, worksheets, and activities, this free Sustainability Lesson Plan helps students comprehend the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their own part in attaining them. By the end of the lesson, they should be more aware of the SDGs and how they can aid in making the world a more sustainable place. Throughout this lesson, students will be motivated to contemplate their actions and how they can have a positive effect on the world.
Additionally, The United Nations website provides a wealth of information about the SDGs, including fact sheets, videos, and activities. They also have a range of online tools, such as the SDG Academy, which provides free online courses about the SDGs.
In addition, there are many organizations that provide resources for teaching SDGs. For example, Global Citizens provides lesson plans and activities for teaching SDGs in the classroom. The Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network (CLEAN) also provides resources for teaching climate change and energy literacy.
Finally, there are many books and websites that provide information about the SDGs. For example, the United Nations Environment Programme’s book, Our Common Future, provides an overview of the SDGs and how they can be achieved.
How to Measure the Impact of Sustainable Development Goal Education
It is important to measure the impact of teaching Sustainable Development Goals. This can be done through surveys and interviews, which can be used to assess how students’ attitudes and knowledge have changed over time.
In addition, students can be encouraged to take action to support the SDGs, such as taking part in campaigns or volunteering. This can be measured through tracking the number of people who have taken part and the impact that their actions have had.
Finally, it is important to measure the impact of SDG education on a larger scale. This can be done through tracking the progress made towards achieving the SDGs. This can help to assess the impact that SDG education is having, as well as providing an indication of where more work needs to be done.
Technology can be a powerful tool for teaching Sustainable Development Goals. There are many online tools and resources that can be used to teach SDGs effectively. For example, the Global Goals Education website provides interactive activities and lesson plans for teaching SDGs. The United Nations also has a range of online tools, such as the SDG Academy, which provides free online courses about the SDGs.
Gamification is an important tool for teaching sustainability to students, allowing them to learn in an interactive and enjoyable way. Through gamified activities such as virtual simulations, interactive games, and online challenges, students can gain a better understanding of the importance of sustainability and how they can help make the world a more sustainable place. Twin is a safe and social mobile application that provides students with over 300 DIY projects, STEM games, and interactive videos. Through engaging games, students can learn about responsibility for the environment, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the importance of conservation. With Twin, students can have fun while cleaning up oceans, protecting forests, and taking action to protect the planet!
In addition, there are many apps, websites, and social media platforms that can be used to teach SDGs. For example, the Global Goals app provides information about the SDGs and encourages users to take action to support them.
Finally, technology can be used to measure the impact of SDG education. For example, data visualization tools can be used to track the progress made towards achieving the SDGs. This can help to assess the impact of SDG education, as well as providing an indication of where more work needs to be done.
Conclusion – The Future of Sustainable Development Goal Education
Sustainable Development Goal education is an important part of our future. It is essential that we teach students about the global challenges we face and how they can take action to create a more equitable and sustainable future.
The Sustainable Development Goals provide an excellent framework for teaching sustainability and environmental education. They are a reminder that, while progress has been made in some areas, there is still much work to be done in others.
There are many strategies for teaching SDGs effectively, such as focusing on one SDG at a time or using case studies. There are also many resources available for teaching SDGs, as well as tools for measuring the impact of SDG education. Finally, technology can be a powerful tool for teaching SDGs and measuring their impact.
By teaching Sustainable Development Goals, we can help to foster a sense of hope and possibility and empower students to take action to create a more just and sustainable world.
Now is the time to start teaching Sustainable Development Goals. We all have a responsibility to the planet and to future generations to ensure that our actions today are sustainable and that we are taking steps towards a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future. By teaching SDGs, we can help to create a better world for all.
By Dr Meryl Batchelder, Middle School Teacher In Northumberland, UK & TeachSDG Ambassador.
As a teacher with an academic background in environmental science, I believe that the purpose of education is to prepare young people for the future. But, even beyond the pandemic, planet Earth is rapidly changing and, depending on where you are in the world, many schools are not yet teaching pupils to be competent in how to use STEM+A (science, technology, engineering, mathematics + art) to solve complex problems or even to develop a meaningful social conscience. This means they might lack essential future skills and be ill-prepared for the challenging times ahead.
Bringing the UN Sustainable Development Goals into my classroom to promote sustainability
To ensure the children in my classroom, whether virtual or in person, understand the concept of living sustainably, I have brought the UN Sustainable Development Goals into my lessons, linking all topics to at least one of these Global Goals. The SDGs are an internationally agreed set of 17 objectives which act as a holistic blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet. They include aims for Zero Hunger (SDG2), Clean Water and Sanitation for all (SDG6), Responsible Consumption (SDG12) and Climate Action (SDG13).
If we really want to support young people, we need to move with the times and that is where new developments in EdTech, encompassing education for climate change and sustainability, can prove highly effective. SDG4 is for Quality Education and Target 4.7 of the goal states that by 2030, we should ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including education, sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace, global citizenship and an appreciation of cultural diversity. EdTech can really give young people an advantage as we wait for international educational strategies to catch up.
Twin Science is a vibrant EdTech startup which embodies all that is good with EdTech. There is the Twin App which allows teachers to set and track hands-on homework and intelligent quizzes, education kits where students learn crucial concepts like coding, robotics and AI with a plethora of curriculum-aligned lessons. The company has hosted interactive shows live on YouTube produced with Imperial College London and the Royal Academy of Engineering and has recently been selected as a 2022 TechPioneer by the World Economic Forum. They are definitely an EdTech company to watch!
A sticky app to promote sustainability
The Twin App is dynamic and hugely engaging. It provides STEM+A Challenges that pupils can do at home or in the classroom. There are 5 minute Discovery Bits, in which an enormous range of young people, teachers and professionals share short lessons via interactive videos. These are aligned to the SDGs and include a vast array of topics which address the problems, and more importantly the solutions, that can help young people face the challenges ahead. There are ‘lessons’ on autonomous vehicles, robot bees, biomimicry in architecture, novel developments in renewable energy and even the anatomy of jellyfish. Learning through these videobites is much more interesting to young people than the dry objectives in many national curricula. There is even a Discovery Bit created by Antony Jinman, a polar explorer, helping to raise awareness about climate change and the amount of new content is growing as more enthusiastic creators join the team.
Within the Twin App there are also DIY projects that young people can undertake in school or at home, thousands of STEM trivia questions along with a safe & moderated platform that can be opted out if necessary. The app encourages project based learning and allows children to play games, earn coins and level up. Teachers or parents can even access childrens’ monthly skill reports. We all know that many young people love playing on electronic devices but they also love to learn, why not channel their time and energy into something tangible?
In another feat of creativity Twin Science have also developed Twin Robotic Kits which immerse young inventors into the world of robotics and coding. The World Economic Forum announced Twin as one of the eight winners of the inaugural Smart Toy Awards in 2021. Today’s children are the adults of the future, a future shaped by artificial intelligence and robotic technologies. These coding kits, where they can learn the basics of robotic technologies with fun experiments, are based on Arduino technology and allow children to do described experiments or independently-led projects with LEGO™ compatible modules. There is a fabulous education kit that I’m just getting started with my pupils on projects that link to the KS2 and KS3 national curriculum.
A Creative Session With Twin STEM Kits
Promoting conscience and competence
The company’s philosophy aligns with my own, aiming to improve the ‘future skills’ of children such as problem-solving & critical thinking to understand and question the global-scale problems, creative thinking to generate solutions and innovations to these problems, a sense of social responsibility to care about these problems in the first place and the self-confidence & growth-mindset to tackle these problems with a hopeful attitude. Twin Science also adopts an holistic approach to education and links everything to real life in order to get children to think about how to tackle global problems at a systems-level.
Shaped by insight from working with thousands of children, Twin Science has a STEM4Good approach to inspire children. The app and kits encourage children to actively think, stay curious and keep questioning to prepare them for tomorrow’s challenges and jobs; design and creativity, drawing and imagination, exploration and curiosity, robotics and problem solving, observational and reasoning and communication and self awareness. This platform is transformational for teaching!
It’s wonderful that the company also has a huge social conscience. For each digital subscription purchased, they give one digital subscription to a child from an economically disadvantaged background. For each kit purchased, they donate a portion to the World Science Movement (WSM), which aims to give children in emergent nations better access to STEM education.
Despite being a relatively old teacher in age, I’m a new advocate for EdTech. To address issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss young people will need practical skills needed in order to transition towards a net zero lifestyle alongside creative thinking and develop technological solutions in the future. Where better to start than early in their journey through school? Twin Science is suitable for children of ages 7 to 12. Problem solving will build resilience and give pupils the ability to cope with, and rise to, the inevitable challenges and set-backs they will meet in the course of their lives, and come back stronger from them.
Finally, as a parent of two teenagers soon to depart for university to study STEM subjects, I just wish Twin Science had been founded a decade ago. Then my children, and I, could have benefited from this technology. They would have loved the meaningful, sticky edutainment provided by the app and kits or recommended ideas for practical hands-on projects would have kept them busy. Nonetheless, as a teacher, I still have the time to embrace EdTech and transform my teaching.
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