In the ever-evolving landscape of science education, finding tools that truly engage students can be a challenge. Mike Sumner, a 7th grade science teacher at Tooele Junior High in Tooele, Utah, has discovered a game-changer in Research Quest. Let's dive into Mike's experience and see how Research Quest is making waves in his classroom.
Mike enthusiastically shares, "I love using Research Quest in my classroom for project-based, engaging lessons." In an age where capturing students' attention is increasingly difficult, Research Quest stands out by turning "research and data collection into a fun activity." This approach not only makes learning more enjoyable but also helps students retain information more effectively.
One of the standout modules in Research Quest, according to Mike, is "Triceratops Traits." This particular investigation has become a favorite among his students, and it's easy to see why. Mike explains, "I use the lesson near the end of the year when we are talking about evolutionary changes."
What makes this module particularly effective is its alignment with several 7th-grade science, ELA, math, and technology standards. In particular, they align with these science standards:
But the benefits don't stop there. Mike notes that the lesson "seamlessly pulls in concepts from other units we've studied over the year, such as tectonic plate activity (SEEd 7.2.5) and adaptation (SEEd 7.4.2)." This interdisciplinary approach helps students see the interconnectedness of scientific concepts, reinforcing their learning throughout the year.
One of the most valuable aspects of Research Quest, according to Mike, is how it engages students in authentic problem-solving. "It's wonderful to see the students engage with solving an authentic problem, using different types of evidence," he shares. This hands-on approach to learning is crucial in developing critical thinking skills.
Moreover, Research Quest excels in teaching students about evidence evaluation. Mike emphasizes, "Research Quest is perfect for helping them understand the difference between strong, weak, and disconfirming evidence." This skill is not only essential for scientific inquiry but also for navigating our information-rich world.
The effectiveness of Research Quest isn't just anecdotal. Mike observes tangible improvements in his students' work, stating, "I see strong evidence in their writing that it has made a difference." This improvement in written communication demonstrates how the platform enhances not just scientific understanding, but also communication skills – a crucial combination for future success in any field.
Mike's enthusiasm for Research Quest is clear, and he's eager for more. "I hope the Natural History Museum of Utah continues making more Research Quest activities," he says, underscoring the value that educators see in this interactive learning platform.
Mike Sumner's experience with Research Quest in his 7th-grade science classroom at Tooele Junior High is a testament to the platform's effectiveness. By making research engaging, aligning with educational standards, and fostering critical thinking skills, Research Quest is proving to be an invaluable tool in science education.
Research Quest is a program of the Natural History Museum of Utah in partnership with The Utah Education Network
