Alice Springs School of the Air
This school services students in a 502,000 square mile area. (That's a big number! Visualize the area of California times THREE!) It is considered to be the world's largest classroom! There are currently 141 students enrolled. The students live in remote areas that do not have local schools. They may live on cattle ranches, camel farms, mining camps, national parks, roadhouses and in Indigenous communities. The school employs 16 teachers that provide learning opportunities via satellite using technology, curriculum, support, and field visits for students ages 4 (pre-school) through year 9. Students continue years 10, 11, and 12 at a boarding school or a remote learning school in Darwin.
The School of the Air has a presentation that discusses the history of the school through current times. You are able to see into the classrooms and view the technology and resources that are used for remote learning. I have included a photo of one of the classrooms.
While this school visit was not part of my scheduled itinerary, it made an extreme impact on me and I have reached out for further communication. I was fascinated by the programs and the work they do there. I am hoping to add this to my list of global collaboration options. It is a unique setting compared to a conventional school building, yet they overcome challenges such as distance, language, culture, and priorities to create virtual classrooms with successful learning opportunities.
No comments:
Post a Comment