Science education is constantly evolving, and innovative teachers like Paige Olson are at the forefront of implementing engaging and effective learning strategies. With 19 years of experience as a Junior High science teacher, Paige has found a powerful tool in Research Quest to enhance her students' learning experience.
Paige Olson, who serves as the Professional Learning Coach and Science Department Head at American Fork Junior High in Utah, has integrated Research Quest into her 7th and 8th-grade science curriculum. She uses these investigations both as extensions to her regular lessons, and as project-based learning in science classes.
One of the key benefits Paige highlights is how Research Quest brings local data and problems into the classroom:
"These investigations are a way to bring in local data and problems without having to leave the classroom – in some ways better than a real-world trip since we all know how junior high students can be sometimes when you let them loose in the wild," Paige explains.
This approach allows students to engage with real world science problems while maintaining a structured learning environment. It's particularly effective for junior high students who may sometimes struggle with focus during field trips.
Paige emphasizes that all the investigations are aligned with SEEd (Science and Engineering Education) Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and English Language Arts Standards while also emphasizing Crosscutting Concepts and SEPs (Science and Engineering Practices). This alignment ensures that the activities not only engage students but also meet crucial educational benchmarks.
According to Paige, her students have responded positively to Research Quest:
"My students have overwhelmingly enjoyed the set-up and progression of the investigations. They have intentionally mixed in a variety of tasks and formative feedback to help the students learn and apply," she shares.
The investigations are designed to improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential competencies for budding scientists. The variety of tasks and the inclusion of formative feedback help students learn and effectively apply scientific concepts.
While all these online investigations have proven valuable, Paige mentions a particular favorite:
"My (and my students') favorite investigation is the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry," she reveals.
This investigation likely resonates with students due to the fascinating subject matter and its local relevance to Utah's rich paleontological history.
Paige Olson's experience with Research Quest demonstrates its effectiveness as an educational tool in science classrooms. She encourages other educators to explore this resource:
"If you have never tried any or if it has been awhile, it is worth your time!" Paige concludes.
For science teachers looking to bring engaging, standards-aligned, and locally (or expanding their students' worlds to experience far away places) relevant content into their classrooms, Research Quest offers a compelling option. It provides a virtual alternative to field trips, enhances critical thinking skills, and keeps students engaged with real world science problems – all crucial elements in fostering the next generation of scientific thinkers.
Research Quest is a program of the Natural History Museum of Utah in partnership with The Utah Education Network
