Florida meets Finland:
Corinth in the Classroom Project
We learned real world practical skills that we will use one day in the workplace," said Billy C. "Mr. LaVogue is always emphasizing critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration skills. He's convinced us these are skills we will need. "
On 2014, I was contacted by Microsoft and asked if my class would be interested in participating in an international collaboration project where students create ideas and prototypes for apps while working in teams with kids from provides a rich learning experience that develops a wide variety of skills. Here are some of the skills my students gained through this project:
- Technical Skills: These include programming, UI/UX design, and understanding the principles of app development. They would also learn how to work with specific software and tools to create and test their prototypes.
- Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Identifying needs that an app could address, brainstorming solutions, creating a prototype, and then revising it based on feedback all require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Creativity and Innovation: Coming up with new app ideas, designing interfaces, and problem-solving within the app development context all encourage students to think creatively and innovatively.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Working in teams, whether in-person or remotely, teaches students to work effectively with others, delegate tasks, manage conflicts, and strive towards a common goal.
- Cross-Cultural Understanding: Collaborating with students from Finland would expose the South Florida students to a different culture, enhancing their understanding of the world and developing their global awareness.
- Communication Skills: This kind of project necessitates clear and effective communication, both within their own team and between teams. This might involve writing, speaking, listening, and even non-verbal communication.
- Project Management: The students would learn to plan, organize, and manage resources to successfully complete the project. They would also need to track progress, make adjustments as necessary, and meet deadlines.
- Digital Literacy: In the process of creating the app, students would inevitably become more comfortable with using technology and understand the potential of digital tools.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: Dealing with unexpected challenges, changes in plans, or feedback that requires significant changes to their work would teach students to be adaptable and flexible.
- Self-directed Learning: Students are often required to learn new tools or concepts independently in order to solve a problem or improve their project.
- Ethics and Digital Citizenship: Students would have the opportunity to learn about issues like data privacy, intellectual property, and the social impacts of technology.
