What is STEAM ?
STEAM lessons take an integrated approach to learning and teaching, which requires the intentional connection of learning objectives. Primarily focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math, STEAM activities help students see the connection that the subject matter has in the real-world.
STEAM activities develop a child’s ability to problem solve, think critically and move through the design phases of innovation. It prepares students to work in fields that are poised for growth.
Generally based in a question or project, STEAM encourages students to think “outside the box” and collaborate with others. For successful collaboration students must:
- Develop a point of view and share it with others – either verbally or visually
- Listen to others points of view
- Seek and accept feedback
- Experiment - solve problems through trial and error - move from draft to iteration to final product
What is Hands-on learning?
Hands-on learning directly involves the student. It encourages the learner to do something in order to learn about it. It is 'learning by doing'. At Pace, academic and functional skills are taught through hands-on activities and those same activities are used to teach valuable social skills. For students who struggle to collaborate or cooperate with peers, hands-on activities encourage them to work together. Pace provides a safe, non-threatening opportunity to practice collaboration. Starting with simple exploration of materials (e.g., Legos, arts supplies, etc.), supports are scaffolded to assist students with becoming more comfortable and independent in their learning. All of our students are encouraged to complete hands-on learning activities throughout the school day.
With hands-on learning, students:
- Increase retention of skills
- Increase engagement
- Gain extra practice
- Benefit from different learning styles
- Improve problem solving
Why Creative Arts?
In addition to the hands-on learning that occurs in the classroom, every student participates in a variety of Creative Arts classes. Each of these classes provides the student with age and developmentally appropriate activities designed to:
- increase fine and gross motor skills
- encourage creativity
- gain appreciation and understanding of the physical world
- develop a sense of fair play and sportsmanship
- encourage life-long learning and leisure activities
Pace offers the following Creative Arts classes:
- Art – Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, 3-d Design, Screen printing
- Music – Theory, Percussion, Vocal, Music Production
- Videography – Stop Motion Animation
- Technology – Basic skills, Internet Safety, Microsoft Office, Coding
- Physical Education – Movement, Leisure, Sports, Athletics
- Daily Living /Skills – Cooking, Sewing,
Child Development, Functional
LivingSkills, Healthy Living