AdvancED® STEM Certification

1.2 STEM Indicators Narrative

The Banneker High School 3DE Magnet learning environment supports student inquiry and
fosters student independence, collaboration and creativity. An inductive approach to teaching
and learning is used as the overarching pedagogy in the 3DE magnet program. Our instructional
methods include case-based learning, experiential learning, inquiry-based learning, problem-
based learning and project-based learning. These instructional methods begin with an
application, either a complex real-world problem or a set of observations or data to interpret (vs
teaching general principles and theories). As students begin to work with data or real-world
problems, they have multiple opportunities to work independently and as collaborative team
members working to develop creative and innovative solutions to authentic problems.

3DE case studies and job site visits are integrated learning experiences that allow students to
collaborate with their peers and gain access and exposure to industries related to their career
pathways. Students in grades 9-11 are provided real world business challenges throughout the
school year and work collaboratively in small groups to develop a solution using the skills and
competencies learned in their core classes. Students can view complex situations from various
viewpoints using real- world STEM related situations or scenarios. Each of the artifacts for this
section provide evidence of inductive-based teaching and learning which facilitates creative
problem solving. These strengths are evidenced by artifacts showing student case study
collaborative work using Microsoft OneNote, detailed listing of 2018-2019 case challenges and
site visits, and samples of previous business case studies with interdisciplinary lesson plans
created by teacher. Additional artifacts show 9th and 10th grade 2nd semester STEM PBL
assignments with supporting documents and creative problem-solving activities showcasing
students’ design challenge work and work solving a local problem for the school’s work-based
learning teacher and Safe Center.

There is always room for continued improvement relative to creating STEM focused
interdisciplinary lesson plans. We will continue our strong push for developing the STEM
instructional capacity of all 3DE teachers utilizing technology, conferences, professional
development and weekly collaboration with team members.