STEM Environments In Secondary Education Sustainability Programs: a Case Study On The Application of AgroLab Framework

EasyChair Preprint 15215

Abstract

This review presents an illustrative case study that details the continued progression of multiple, non-traditional STEM learning environments at an urban secondary school campus. These environmental-focused ecosystems support integrated STEM learning by aligning with the United Nations Goals for Sustainable Development (SDGs). By providing for direct application of sustainability practices in STEM education through student projects and school courses/activities, the review calls attention to broader issues and topics related to environments that are supportive of STEM learning.

Beginning with an initial review of models, programs, and projects by the key stakeholders of the Falls Church City Public School's (FCCPS) sustainability program in Fall 2019, the AgroLab Uniandes emerged as a prime model for implementation in the FCCPS Academy for Sustainable Thinking during Fall 2022. The model served as a framework to streamline the efforts of the new and existing environmental science, energy, and design programs under the umbrella of an urban agriculture program focused on sustainability within the city’s public schools and the adjoining community. The model’s small-scale, local impact philosophy mirrors the image of the city, commonly referred to as the “Little City.” Located in the suburbs and less than 10 miles from the heart of Washington, D.C., the “Little City” has maintained its community-oriented beliefs even in the face of the significant urbanization taking place in surrounding counties.

The results of the case study found that students in the FCCPS sustainability program are developing deeper understandings of urban agriculture and environmental science each subsequent year through multiple, intentional experiences that combine their classroom instruction with project based activities in the schools aquatic education facility, the vivarium facility, the school gardens, and living labs.

Keyphrases: Agrolab Framework, Air Purification Plants, Collaborative Learning Experiences, Farmbot, STEM education, Standards for Technological and Engineering Literacy, Sustainability Education, The United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development, community partnerships

@booklet{EasyChair:15215,
  author    = {Ray Wu-Rorrer and Peter Mecca},
  title     = {STEM Environments In Secondary Education Sustainability Programs: a Case Study On The Application of AgroLab Framework},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint 15215},
  year      = {EasyChair, 2024}}