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Using the online lessons created for the ARC, teachers could easily apply the concepts and skills covered to their own teaching practices which would also be in line with STEM education policy statement. By using these lessons teachers are encouraging inquiry based learning which gives the children agency and helps them come up with the action. An example of a lesson that might be beneficial in my school would be to get the children to brainstorm what they know about agriculture as we are from a land locked county. I would then complete the ARCs lesson one on what is aquaculture and this would be a great opportunity then for the children to compare and contrast and to see what similarities and differences there are between the two practices. In my school the children would already be very aware of agriculture in our community and the benefits it brings to our community. This would be a nice opportunity to see the same in a contrasting part of Ireland such as Donegal.
I really enjoyed your response Jane. You really highlighted what Ireland’s geography has to offer. You are so right. We are known for our agriculture but some areas just aren’t suitable for agriculture and aquaculture might be more beneficial.
Aquaculture farms have really boosted the local economy of the communities in which they are situated. Places like Killibegs in Donegal for example are small communities and towns that may not have my professional job opportunities for the young people born there. Young people may therefore feel the need to move to larger town and cities. However, since aquaculture is very labour intensive it requires a large strong workforce, hence younger people are staying in their communities to work and hence are contributing to the local economy. The integration of this topic in our primary schools will help the children to learn about industry and the importance of industry, traditional practices in Ireland, the benefits of aquaculture in certain areas and how human activity can help shape an area and develop an area when they utilise the natural environment around them. As a teacher in a farming community, this could also be emphasised due to the high employment rates in this area.
Hi Michelle, I really enjoyed your response. I agree with the benefits of teaching about aquaculture and allowing the children to examine all of the different stakeholders involved. This would also relate to other industries.
Exploring the world of aquaculture and social licence in the primary classroom provides great opportunities for inquiry based learning, interdisciplinary learning and meaningful experiences. As I work in an inland school I would have never thought of teaching about aquaculture until inland fisheries advertised to come into schools to teach about the life cycle of the salmon. I really enjoyed this lesson and decided to explore this course.
Teaching about social license – this can significantly educate children about ethical issues, communications, community, sustainability and reflection.
Allowing the children to engage in inquiry based learning activities is very beneficial as they are giving opportunities to reflect on the world around them and how this is shaped and what we can do to improve this industry and protect this industry. These skills learned during inquiry based learning activities help children learn about relevant topics and be prepared for the world we live in which is a rapidly evolving world. These tools deepen the children’s understanding of topics and also support the development of the children to be more informed citizens for a more sustainable future.
