Thriving Together
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering & Math
As a nation, education policy is shifting focus to improve competitiveness in technology development and innovation. Laguna Blanca is staying abreast of these changes with a newly minted STEM program, which will broaden the study of engineering within our current science, technology and mathematics courses. We offer multiple electives with our Middle and Upper school programs that will emphasize critical thinking and problem solving through project based learning. These beginning engineering skills will also be integrated into the Lower School courses. All courses will place emphasis on inquiry-based learning with students developing their own solutions to complex problems through hands-on experiential activities. The learning opportunities posed will focus on real world scenarios, relating to students' lives and experiences. Technology is integrated into the program from the earliest levels and includes the use of coding, computers, LEGO, robotics, tablets, 3D printers, 3D scanners, and vernier based data collection.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
INTRO ENGINEERING
This course serves as an introduction to the engineering design process. This class includes an introduction to circuitry, 3D CAD and printing work, speaker design, and structural analysis. This course is rooted in project-based learned and will help students channel their creative energies.
INTRO ROBOTICS
This course explores relationships among the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) via the VEX IQ robotics platform. It is designed to introduce students to basic robotics and automation concepts with a goal of enhancing student interest in the field of STEM study. The course has an emphasis on competition and challenge-based activities.
INTRO CODING
This course attempts to foster a love of technology and create a solid design and coding foundation for students, allowing them to continue to build upon skills in computer systems, digital design, and project management with an emphasis on critical thinking and problem solving. Through complex team-based, hands-on projects, students will have the chance to design, plan, execute and review their projects—just as they would in the “real world.”
Community
Laguna Blanca is Santa Barbara’s premier private, co-educational, college preparatory day school for students in Early Kindergarten through Grade 12.