As an online school, we understand the challenges of delivering practical science classes to a diverse cohort of students spread across different locations. However, through innovative approaches such as simulations, videos, flipped learning, practical workshops, and home-based experiments, we have developed a dynamic and engaging science curriculum that enables our students to thrive.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at how our science classes work at CGA, providing insights into our unique methods of delivering practical education and preparing our students for success in the world of science.

Simulations and Videos for Practical Work

At Crimson Global Academy (CGA), our students come from diverse backgrounds and are spread around the world. To ensure that all students have access to high-quality science education, we use simulations and videos as a key component of our science classes. This allows students to engage with practical concepts and learn in a virtual environment, even if they are not physically present in a traditional classroom.

The learning experience they get online, you can just get through so much work, in so much detail because you haven’t got the distractions of a normal physical classroom. So they’re ahead in terms of their learning to where they would normally be. - Nick Salmon, CGA Science Teacher

Flipped Learning with Edpuzzle

To maximize the effectiveness of our virtual science classes, we often use a flipped learning approach with Edpuzzle. Students are required to watch videos in advance and answer questions along the way. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the content before the class, so that during the class, teachers can focus on discussing the finer details, such as safety aspects, data manipulation, and exam-type questions.

This approach ensures that students are actively engaged during class time and can fully participate in discussions and activities.

Microscale Experiments at Home

At CGA, we are constantly exploring innovative ways to enhance the practical aspect of our science classes. One of our Greenwhich Chemistry teachers, who is currently working on her master's thesis, is developing microscale experiments that can be performed at home with a few essential items purchased by the students. These experiments are designed to be safe and accessible, allowing students to conduct practical work in their own homes and further reinforce their understanding of scientific concepts.

We eagerly anticipate the results and recommendations from this ongoing research, which has the potential to revolutionize practical science education at CGA.

Practical Workshops

As part of our commitment to providing a well-rounded science education, CGA strives to offer practical workshops for our students. Currently these are offered in Auckland, New Zealand, for each discipline - Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

These workshops are held during the first week of the July school holidays and are conducted by our experienced teachers. While attendance is not compulsory, it is highly encouraged, and students from all levels - International GCSE (IG), International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS), and International A-Level (IA2) - are invited to participate.

These workshops provide hands-on experience with practical experiments and allow students to interact with their peers and teachers in a face-to-face setting.

Explore a day of Science at CGA in the video below.

Explore Outside The Classroom

There are several other ways students can gain hands-on Science experience even when attending an online school. Here are some suggestions:

Science Kits

There are numerous science kits available for purchase online, suitable for a wide range of ages and interests. These kits should include the necessary materials and instructions for conducting simple experiments in various fields such as Chemistry, Physics and Biology. Examples include: KiwiCo and MEL science. Please note that these will not align directly with the Pearson Edexcel specifications.

STEM Clubs and Organisations

Joining a local STEM club can be an excellent opportunity for students to engage in hands-on Science activities. Organisations such as the Girl Guides, Scouts, and 4-H often have STEM-related activities and projects. Examples: Kiwibots, Engineering for Kids

Household Experiments: Everyday items can be used to conduct simple experiments at home. Here is a website with 70+ ideas, there are great resources on Youtube and our Science teachers will recommend activities to students as well.

Educational activities: Zoos, aquariums, Science museums and universities often hold events for students. Here’s a science day put on by Melbourne University or a school excursion day put on by Sydney University.

Science Fairs: Participating in a Science fair can be a great opportunity to dive into a topic of interest, conduct an experiment, and present findings. Many Science fairs have moved online and are open to students in online schools.

Future Plans for Upscaling Workshops

As CGA continues to grow, we have plans to upscale our practical workshops to other parts of the world. However, due to the current challenges posed by logistics, and costs, this is not currently a viable option. Nevertheless, we are committed to exploring possibilities and finding creative solutions to ensure that all our students have access to practical science education, regardless of their location.

Conclusion

At Crimson Global Academy, our science classes are designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging learning experience, even in a virtual environment. Through simulations, videos, flipped learning, practical workshops, and innovative experiments, we strive to ensure that our students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their future endeavors. If you’re interested in learning more about our science program, get in touch with one of our Admissions Officers.