Course Spotlight: How ASU Prep Global reinvented online Earth & Space Science

« Back
|
October 29, 2024
|
ASU Prep Global

Long before Galileo first pointed his telescope to the heavens, humans were fascinated with space. What does it reveal about life on Earth? And how can we use that knowledge to create a better world?

Students are often intrigued by space and Earth’s place in it, wondering about the origins of the universe and the formation and function of our planet. But without a field trip to space, these concepts can seem like a distant, far-off reality.

ASU Prep Global’s groundbreaking Earth & Space Science online course brings the entire solar system to students with interactive labs and simulations.

This curriculum, available through the ASU Prep Learning Cloud, is designed to meet the needs of high school students, using technology to pave the way for a new generation of curiously engaged students.

The inspiration behind this innovative high school course

Our lessons are designed for students to start with a question or big idea, and explore, chapter by chapter, multiple lines of evidence.”

Lauren Kern, Science Curriculum Specialist at ASU Prep

Developing a curriculum that allows students to learn through exploration and innovative methods is truly thrilling. “Our lessons are designed for students to start with a question or big idea, and explore, chapter by chapter, multiple lines of evidence,” explains Lauren Kern, a Science Curriculum Specialist at ASU Prep. “Our goal is for students to use evidence to draw conclusions, rather than being told what conclusions should be reached.”

This vision inspired the creation of an educational and engaging course that is accessible to all students through cutting-edge 3D simulations. The course enables students to zoom through space, travel through time, delve into the earth’s core, and witness geological formations that span thousands of years—all in just a few minutes.

These immersive experiences vividly model the vast processes occurring throughout the universe and Earth, bringing the cosmos and our planet right to the students’ screens.

By offering such an accessible and immersive learning experience, the course helps students tackle complex concepts. It transforms vast and seemingly unfathomable ideas into opportunities for students to appreciate their wonder while understanding the principles that help us make sense of the universe.

Student learning on a laptop

Building the best course for students and teachers

The development of ASU Prep Global’s Earth & Space Science course involved an iterative design process that included continuous feedback from teachers, students, and other stakeholders. “Our objective was to create a seamless and intuitive interface that encourages students to explore and learn,” says Eric Barker, Lead User Experience Design Director at ASU Prep.

“We were always listening to our users, making adjustments to ensure the curriculum met their needs,” adds Kern. This process helped in refining the curriculum to offer the best possible learning experience.

A visionary approach to high school science education

ASU Prep Global’s Earth & Space Science curriculum was designed from the ground up to prepare students for future academic and career success. By integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative teaching methods, we aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel.

In ASU Prep Global’s Earth & Space Science courses, students encounter real-world questions they may not know the answers to – yet. In these cases, students will need to explore and interact with all the activities on screen, using what they already know along with the information provided to inform their thinking.

Once students select an answer, specially designed feedback will give them hints and suggestions to adjust their understanding or rationale to confirm their learning. The process of active learning facilitates the activation of prior knowledge, fosters the discovery of information, and provides students the opportunity to keep trying until they master the concepts.

High School science education

Let’s take a look at a few of the features you’ll find throughout this innovative online course:

  • Guided discovery approach

    This inquiry-based approach involves tapping into students’ existing knowledge and building new understanding through a self-directed process. Along the way, students ask questions, explore, and reflect as they make connections and construct meaning independently, fostering a deeper, more personalized learning experience.

  • Rich, 3D simulations

    Students will embark on a cosmic adventure with immersive 3D simulations, exploring the formation of the solar system and Earth, the interconnectedness of Earth’s spheres, and diverse climates and ecosystems. This engaging approach makes learning both fun and educational.

  • Interactive digital labs

    Interactive labs provide students with a deeper understanding of the world around us and our impact on it. By collecting and analyzing data, they’ll gain insights into how we can better take care of our planet and preserve it for future generations.

  • Real-life case studies

    Through observation, research, and investigative work, students will gain a deeper understanding of how our actions are contributing to climate change, deforestation, and pollution. Fear not, because the Earth & Space Science course also equips students with the knowledge and tools to take action against these problems and create lasting change.

  • Captivating visuals

    Modern design elements, coupled with eye-catching graphics and dynamic videos simplify complex concepts, making them easier to understand and more engaging for students.

Why more educators choose online courses from ASU Prep Global

All of ASU Prep Global’s newest courses were built on the ASU Prep Learning Cloud. This proprietary new platform allows digital content to integrate seamlessly into different learning environments, including various LMS or homeschool classrooms, while supporting key features that engage and personalize learning for every student, no matter their grade level.

For curriculum teams from school districts, adopting the ASU Prep Learning Cloud means providing students with a modern, comprehensive education that meets current academic standards. Our curriculum is designed to:

Puzzle piece icon

Engage Students

Chat icon

Differentiate Learning

Magnifying glass icon

Guided Discovery

Boxes icon

Blend Classrooms

Gear icon

Master Data

Wrench icon

Empower Teachers

Teacher working online

What students and teachers are saying about our new online Earth & Space Science course

Students are enthusiastic about the course, especially enjoying the engaging real-world applications. “I love how interactive this class is! It really makes me feel like I’m learning about things that matter, especially understanding my role in the environment,” one student happily shared.

But it’s not just the students who appreciate the benefits; teachers are also impressed. “My students love the beautiful images, the interactives, and the opportunity to apply their learning to solve real-life problems,” a teacher remarked.

Ready to transform your online curriculum?

Explore courses built for real student and teacher needs, including our brand new Earth & Space Science course, available exclusively through ASU Prep Learning Cloud.

Our revolutionary online high school courses redefine the classroom learning experience and leap beyond the conventional to awaken and inspire young minds. Get an exclusive preview by scheduling a demo today!

Desktop with Earth Space Science lessons

  • Beautiful lessons to thoughtfully engage students in learning
  • Searchable content allowing instructors to select learning targets
  • Insightful data helps teachers identify student progress and mastery
  • Aligned to essential standards and flexible to fit various learning management systems

Schedule a demo today and learn more by visiting our website.