[Sile Ni Chathain]

Exploring the online lessons and resources developed for the ARC has encouraged me to reflect on how STEM is already being used in my First Class classroom and how I can develop my practice further. I have realised that STEM does not need to be taught as a separate subject or require complicated resources. It can be naturally integrated through questioning, investigation, problem-solving, creativity and real-life experiences.

This year, I used a STEM activity based on materials where the children investigated which materials would be most suitable for building a strong bridge. They worked collaboratively to design, build, test and improve their bridges. I really enjoyed seeing how engaged the children were and how they responded when their ideas did not work the first time. We also linked the activity with Art, which added a creative element that the children particularly enjoyed. I plan to use similar hands-on activities again and build on this experience by giving the children more opportunities to explore, test and improve their own ideas.

I have also found that using open-ended questions worked really well with my First Class pupils. Questions such as “What do you think will happen?” and “How could we make it stronger?” encouraged them to explain their thinking and listen to the ideas of others. This is an approach I would like to continue developing this year as I build my own confidence and skills in teaching STEM.

I also see STEM as an area that can be developed through the SSE process on a whole-school basis. Sharing ideas and successful activities across the school could help us develop a more consistent and progressive approach to STEM. Overall, the ARC resources have encouraged me to be more intentional about providing meaningful STEM experiences and to continue developing my practice through hands-on, child-led learning.

[Sile Ni Chathain]

Completely agree Laura. There are so many valuable discussions to be had in this area especially with the older classes. I think they would really enjoy the opportunity.

[Sile Ni Chathain]

Exploring the locations of aquaculture farms across Ireland has helped me appreciate the valuable contribution they make to coastal communities and the people who live there. Having grown up on the west coast myself, I had some understanding of why many farms are located along the west, southwest, and northwest coasts, where clean waters and sheltered bays provide ideal conditions for farming fish and shellfish.

What stands out most to me is the positive impact aquaculture can have on local communities. It provides employment in areas where opportunities can sometimes be limited and supports many other local businesses, including transport, processing, tourism, and equipment suppliers. Aquaculture also helps sustain rural coastal communities by creating opportunities for people to live and work locally rather than having to move away. This is something I have witnessed myself through family friends who have been connected to the industry.

The course also highlighted the importance of balancing economic benefits with environmental responsibility. Sustainable farming practices and maintaining the trust of local communities are essential for the industry to continue developing successfully. Overall, learning about aquaculture has broadened my perspective. Growing up, I never gave it much thought, but I now recognise that it not only provides a sustainable source of food but also plays an important role in supporting Ireland’s coastal economy and helping communities thrive.

[Sile Ni Chathain]

I completely agree. I was so lucky to live beside the sea as a child. It was such a joyous place for me growing up and I’m so grateful that I can share this with my son also. I can see myself  though that some children have no exposure now and know very little about this environment which is such a shame. The resources discussed in this module would be of such huge benefit for them.

[Sile Ni Chathain]

I really enjoyed learning about aquaculture and can see lots of ways to use the ARC resources in the primary classroom. The course made me think about how important it is for industries to work in a way that protects the environment while also gaining the trust and support of local communities. it’s a valuable topic for children to explore and to think about.
Learning about aquaculture and social license fits really well into the SESE curriculum, as it brings together science, geography, and environmental awareness through real-life examples. Using videos, case studies, discussions, and inquiry-based activities would keep children engaged and help them make connections across different subjects and would provide multiple means of learning for the classroom.
Exploring these topics gives students the chance to learn about ecosystems, sustainable food production, and how people impact the environment. It also helps them understand the importance of listening to different viewpoints, making responsible decisions, and being active citizens. Overall, these resources make SESE more meaningful and encourage children to care about the world around them which is what we are trying to teach them every day.

• This reply was modified 3 months ago by Sile Ni Chathain.

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