Education highlights
Education highlights Blue Apple projects adapt to new settings As learning moved to virtual and hybrid formats, Van Andel Institute for Education adapted each inquiry-based Blue Apple project to amplify impact in whatever setting students, teachers and parents found themselves. Educators across the nation used Blue Apple materials to propel students through these overwhelming challenges and to bring curiosity, creativity and critical thinking to wherever students were learning. Blue Apple Timely Topics connect students to current events The pandemic disrupted even the best-laid plans, and teachers looking for support as they pivoted to new learning environments found it at Van Andel Institute for Education. The Institute launched a new program called Timely Topics, a series of free, 15-minute mini lessons on matters ranging from civil debate to the changing seasons. The lessons immerse students in meaningful discussions on current events and relevant issues through hands-on investigations and experiments. Customized Virtual Science Experiences help teachers on-demand Students learn best through engaging, handson lessons. This is even more important — and challenging — in virtual settings. VAI’s Customized Virtual Science Experiences give teachers and parents the tools to help students succeed with fun, interactive science experiments. The Institute works with educators to craft experiences to meet their individual needs and inspire students to explore and solve problems using scientific methods, tools and resources. To learn more, visit vaei.vai.org. 2,174 teacher professional development webinar registrations 416 students served with virtual science experiences STUDENTS AT CROSSROADS CHARTER ACADEMY & THE SHIPLEY SCHOOL PARTICIPATE IN “PREVENT THE SPREAD” 28 | VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE ANNUAL REPORT 2020
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