Educators often talk about ‘authentic learning’ but what does this look like in action? The A.G.E. recipe for authentic learning turns normal teaching practice on its head by engaging our learners in real, purposeful, action before they learn the theory.
Dr. Mels Barton, part of the Revive Our Gulf project, invited A.G.E to join Otago University’s MM2 (Marine Metre Squared) project, an example of authentic learning for an important purpose (https://www.mm2.net.nz/). On February 26th 2018, two scientists from the university joined A.G.E. learners and staff for their first shoreline investigation for the MM2 project.
Our learners’ task was to survey the plants and animals living in the Takapuna Beach rock pools and record their findings accurately in order to provide data about shoreline. This data would then provide a snapshot of seashore biodiversity and form a baseline against which future change could be measured. Students uploaded data under the guidance of our experts from Otago University and, two weeks later, were sent information, not just about their own shoreline, but also others from around New Zealand. Students analysed the findings, compared their area with other shorelines and looked at ways in which they could support biodiversity.
Monday 11th June was our winter data-gathering day, which was particularly relevant given that it was the first day of Gifted Awareness Week (11-17 June). Once again, with guidance from Dr Mels Barton, our curious and creative citizen scientists located their original square metre and collected data for comparison.
Health check pass for Takapuna Beach (rocky pools): Our citizen scientists made an important find - this time, three endangered species were identified in the rocky pools, showing that the Takapuna Beach rock pools have a wide range of endangered sea life, which is great cause for celebration. The species found were:
Dr. Mels was especially excited and described the investigation as “a great day’s work” and went on to exclaim about the excellent quality of this particular site. One of our senior students left the rock pools feeling nostalgic and uplifted. He reflected that, as young child, he loved exploring the sea and had dreams of becoming a marine biologist. He is now re-inspired to pursue this dream and is undertaking research into why Takapuna Beach has such a diverse range of plant and animal life compared with other Auckland beaches. Authentic learning at its very best!
