Our school aims to develop great thinkers and innovators, and NAE collaboration with MIT offers your child an introduction to interdisciplinary STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) learning. We believe this provides a lifelong foundation for curiosity and real-world problem solving.
Our approach to STEAM learning also helps children explore multifaceted challenges through university-inspired learning and hands-on activities. We give our students the space to embrace collaboration and creativity, and to develop the skills they will need to thrive in our fast-changing world.
Together with MIT, we:
In 2023, Dalian American International School Second and Fourth graders took on the #1 MIT Challenge: Build Better Plants. Students were challenged by Dr. Mary Gehring, MIT Professor of Biology, to design a plant that can survive and thrive in the face of climate change or other environmental challenges. Grade 4 STEM class students have been recognized and highlighted in the MIT video for their work in the Build Better Plants challenge.
Pre-K students exploring magnets (MIT Challenge)
Later during the school year, DAIS-E students took on the second MIT Challenge: Build Better Energy. In this challenge MIT doctoral candidate Shon Mackie of the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center was working with a group of ambitious researchers to make renewable energy through nuclear fusion, just like the sun, with the goal of ending dependency on fossil fuels. Pre-Kindergarten has been exploring permanent magnets and their properties. Our 3rd graders have been busy experimenting with both permanent and electromagnets.
Nord Anglia teachers receive hands-on training at MIT from renowned and influential researchers and academics. These workshops are with leading engineers and scientists on fascinating subjects, from climate change to bioengineering, space exploration, and beyond. In June 2024, three DAIS/DHS teachers took part in the professional development session at MIT: Ms. Elyda Torres-Tafoya (DAIS Elementary), Mr. Ronald Diarez (DAIS Secondary), and Mr. Josh Walden (DHBS).
Ms. Tafoya: This summer, I had the remarkable opportunity to visit MIT in Boston for an enriching professional development session. During my time there, I engaged with leading scientists and researchers at the forefront of scientific innovation. The experience included attending a series of workshops, lectures, and symposiums dedicated to the latest breakthroughs and cutting-edge research in science. Additionally, I had the privilege of working closely with various experts, gaining invaluable insights that have significantly influenced and refined my own curriculum and project ideas for DAIS-E!
Ms. Tafoya and Prof. Faez Ahmed (right) - mechanical engineer using machine learning to help human product designers create, build, and improve their designs
Mr. Diarez: One aspect that particularly captured my attention was the distinguished speakers associated with each topic addressed during the professional development sessions. I recognized the remarkable opportunity our school has to collaborate with MIT. As an educator at Dalian International American School, participating in the professional development training at MIT was an extraordinary experience. I sincerely hope that this opportunity persists in the coming years, enabling teachers from our institution to further develop their teaching skills and refine their respective curricula through in-depth engagement with outstanding educators from MIT.
.jpg?rev=b3e606c546914377b7724f1330d6934f&hash=215D7532330FF9FAD01E93740BC8D12D)
Mr. Diarez (middle) attending a workshop during a professional development session at MIT.
Mr. Diarez: “This semester, I have developed several activities based on the knowledge I have acquired and integrated them into my teaching for both middle school and high school students. For middle school, I have introduced MIT App Inventor, a visual programming environment designed to assist users in creating mobile applications for mobile phone/tablet devices. This resource, developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), aims to enhance students' creativity and innovation, improve their problem-solving skills, and encourage collaboration.
In the high school curriculum, we are currently engaging in the MIT Challenge 1, which focuses on Designing Solutions for 2024-2025. The topic for this challenge is Designing Solutions with AI, led by Professor Faez Ahmed, an ABS Career Development Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering at MIT.
Additionally, I have initiated discussions with the science department and several math teachers to collaborate on creating MIT-inspired STEAM projects throughout this semester. Our goal is to showcase the students' work from these projects alongside the Art department's contributions at the end of the school year.”
Participating in MIT Challenges offers numerous benefits for students.
Ms. Tafoya: MIT challenges offer students the chance to engage with leading scientists in their fields. Selected participants can receive valuable feedback and have their questions addressed by experts studying their areas of interest!
Grade 2 student building a pollinator (MIT Challenge)
Mr. Diarez: Students can significantly enhance their technical skills through these challenges. They become familiar with the design cycle process, improve their problem-solving capabilities, and learn to use artificial intelligence responsibly. Secondly, the challenges encourage innovation and creativity. Participants are motivated to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems, fostering a mindset of exploration and experimentation. Moreover, students gain exposure to real-world issues. By addressing these challenges, they acquire practical experience and develop a deeper understanding of the impact of technology on society.
.jpg?h=524&w=700&rev=0dd4ced4c5ea4cbc9f82fb3a69e9a05f&hash=89FBBEBBD10D7F7E6426EB2C5FE5693E)
Product Design class
Participation in MIT Challenges is also a great help in portfolio development. Students could build a collection of projects that can be showcased to prospective universities, enhancing their academic profiles. Additionally, these challenges promote interdisciplinary learning. They often require knowledge from various fields, such as engineering, design, and social sciences, encouraging a holistic approach to education. Furthermore, engaging in competitive environments can inspire and motivate students. This experience often leads them to pursue careers in STEAM fields and strive for academic excellence. Finally, students gain valuable hands-on experience that complements their theoretical studies. This practical application of knowledge makes education more relevant and engaging.
In conclusion, participating in MIT Challenges not only helps students develop essential skills but also provides invaluable experiences that can positively influence their educational and career trajectories.
