The Experiential Learning Program

 

Description of Program

 

The primary focus of the ELP will be to complement the academic curriculum by providing elective pathways that emphasize learning through doing, enabling students to become more knowledgeable about career options and help prepare them for the challenges of college.  The program will emphasize hands-on technical and professional training that will enable students to acquire the skills and knowledge they will need to succeed in the new global economy.

 

The ELP is envisioned to become the primary vehicle for developing new elective coursework and major new career/educational pathways for SMHS over time.  Towards this goal, the curriculum is designed to introduce new potential themes and pathways through introductory high-level Seminars, followed by hands-on workshops in specific subject areas and potential internships.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two pathways are currently being considered—information technology and creative arts.

 

Pathway 1:  Information Technology

 

Main Theme/Seminar:  Computers in Action / Computer Applications

            Planned Workshops

·        Business Applications:  Mastering PowerPoint, Access, Word and Excel (p)

·        Hands-on Web:  Web Page/Site Design and Publishing (p)

·        Computer Gaming:  Designing interactive games

·        Programming in Action:  Introductory Web & Java programming

 

Pathway 2:  Creative Arts

 

Main Theme/Seminar:  Graphics Design & Visual Arts

Planned Workshops

·        Going Digital:  Digital photography & Video editing/production (p)

·        Intro to Architecture:  Sketching, CAD & 3D design and model making

·        Arts in Action Series: Ceramics Workshop

·        Arts in Action Series: Culinary Arts (p)

·        Arts in Action Series: Painting Workshop

·        Arts in Action Series:  Jewelry Design Workshop

 

Faculty

 

Initially, Subject Matter Experts will be hired, or provided by business sponsors, to develop the core seminar and workshop content and coordinate and conduct their delivery.  In addition, alumni who have expertise in a particular subject area will be invited to volunteer their time back to their high school alma mater.  Current SMHS teachers who are interested in ELP (outside of the scope of the existing curriculum) will also be encouraged to participate and be involved in the workshop content development and delivery.

 

Program Management & Administration

 

An ELP advisory board will be appointed by the SMHS Principal to help plan and drive the program.  The Advisory Board will include faculty, SMHS Foundation Board members, parents, alumni and business leaders. 

 

Evaluation

 

Specific criteria and targets/goals will be established to measure and evaluate the on-going effectiveness and success of the ELP.  This will include progress against the ELP curriculum goals, community and business sponsorship and funding milestones, as well as measuring the student’s participation, satisfaction and achievement.  Objective measures, such as participating student’s GPA, test scores,  graduation rates and college placements, as well Subjective assessments, including student surveys and feedback, will be utilized to evaluate the overall quality and effectiveness of the ELP.