Far too often, students’ impressions of math and science are influenced by negative experiences with these subjects at school. Through research-based instructional strategies, and a culturally relevant approach that focuses on application, we strive to combat the prevailing notions that math and science are abstract, boring or disconnected from the real world. During Fall 2012, OSMO will explicitly focus on providing contextualized, rigorous and meaningful learning opportunities that span science, mathematics, technology and engineering topics.
Current Projects
Mobile App Development: the OSMO mobile app team will continue their development of Android devices using the App Inventor programming language. Students involved with apps work on the design, implementation and marketing of their app. This includes a rigorous design process where students learn central topics in computer science required to successfully program mobile devices. Additionally, there will be opportunities to collaborate with local youth orgs such as Youth Radio and SMASH:Prep. Below two OSMO students prepare their poster showcasing the mobile app work they were involved with in Spring 2012.
WISE (Web-Inquiry Science Environment): this open-source online learning platform will give OSMO students the opportunity to engage in rigorous, inquiry-based science education. This curriculum is developed over many years of research, is aligned with California State Standards and proven to promote deep content learning across disciplines. In Fall 2012 OSMO students will have the opportunity to work on projects such as global climate change, cellular processes, planetary motion, and photosynthesis. Visit the WISE site for more information.