TechnoKids, as we know it, is an excellent platform that presents Technology Projects to K-12 students in Dubai and other Middle East regions. These hands-on technology projects are in sync with STEM pedagogy and make learning of various serious tech topics, easy & interactive. One such project is TechnoMission for students of Senior Grade 8-12 class and through this Blog, we would like to highlight the different aspects of this project, such that implementing it in the classrooms becomes easy.

Project Overview: An Introduction to TechnoMission

This project is focused on teaching kids some database skills. Database Skills are technical skills that a computer professional needs to work with complex database and manage it effectively. Planning, structuring, and constructing data in an effective manner, can lead to an impactful output.

Students need to complete the following tasks step-by-step:

In Session 1:

Students go back in time and find out the roots of space exploration. When was the first time that a space study was conducted? What were the space exploration projects undertaken by former scientists? All these answers are pretty useful to get intrigued about Space Studies. The TechnoMission projects provide a ready-made database of all the important events and timelines to delve deeper into the topic, which students need to read through.

In Session 2:

Now that students have a rough idea of the history of Space travel, they role-play and become astronauts themselves. Remember when your class teacher asked you what would you like to be when you grew up and some answered astronauts? Well, now that times have changed, children actually get to experience what it’s like being an astronaut virtually by using digital media. Through TechnoMission, students use Microsoft Paint and edit the photograph of the astronaut by placing their faces on the spacesuit. This gives them the entry ticket to TechnoNASA through which they can enter their personal details into the Space Exploration Database.

In Session 3:

The next step is Mission Cyberspace! Here, you are expected to collect some more information about space mission from the World Wide Web and store it in the information database. Students need to fill in a sheet depending on their respective topic and record the Facts in an organized manner with pictures.

In Session 4:

Here students create a table with titles such as name, description, date, and category. Now they have to fill up the details in the respective columns so that data is presented in a neat fashion.

In Session 6:

Students make a report using a standard layout in the Layout View. Our little space explorers also have the liberty to play with orientation, styles, and colors, to make the layout attractive. Once everything is in place, the report can be printed and submitted to the class teacher within IB school in the GCC region. On conclusion of this stage, children feel a sense of accomplishment and deem the Mission Complete!

The Following specifics are therefore captured in TechnoMission:

• The kit includes: A teacher’s Guide, Student Workbook, Customizable Resources, Templates, Letters to Parents, certificates of completion, and much more.
• The following topics touched upon: Language, Arts, Math, and Science
• Tech Skills honed: Data Management, Graphics, and Photo Editing
• Programs Introduced: Microsoft Office, Paint, and Access

Therefore, TechnoMission which is popularly subscribed to in Schools across the UAE, is a module worthy of investment. In the words of Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam, former President of India and Project Director of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization), “You have to Dream before Dreams come true.” So, let us give wings to our children and dream big with the TechnoMission project.

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Immersive storytelling has numerous benefits. Children look forward to story time in school and demand a storytelling session before bedtime with their parents. Stories improve brain development & imagination and studies have shown that it also helps in retaining information more effectively. As a reader, you must be wondering what the connection between Math and storytelling is. Well, to get this perplexing question answered, continue browsing through this Blog.

‘Math’ as a subject, often infuses students with fear and leaves them regretting memorizing tables and learning complex equations. But what if math problems were told in the form of a story? Would it make the subject more interesting then?

Few books that focus on teaching Kids Math concepts;

#1 A Million Dots

How much is a million? Are there a million stars in the sky? What is the significance of a million? A Million Dots is a fantastic book that helps the readers imagine what a huge number ‘million’ is. The exaggerated context of figuring out how many shoe boxes would be needed to construct a Pyramid adds a bit of drama and excitement to number counting. Nonetheless, children will enjoy the colorful illustrations on each page and won’t stop until they’ve read it from cover to cover.

#2 Math Curse

Do you remember your toughest day when you had to multitask and had only a few minutes at hand before you left home? Do the laundry, cook a meal, and take a shower, but all at rapid speed! Phew! That needs some time management skills. In school the math teacher always asks children complex problems like; there are 8 chocolates, and it has to be shared amongst 4 students, or 2 bananas and 3 mangoes have to be divided amongst siblings! In this book, all this sums up as a Math Curse. But one smart girl is on a mission to break this curse. How does she do it? Read the book to find out more. Numerous preschools in Dubai across the Middle East deal with Math anxiety at an early age, where children have to deal with the pressure of memorizing numbers. But ‘Math Curse’ is really a game changer, where children will really come to enjoy the subject or maybe even get obsessed with it.

#3 Tangled, a Story about Shapes

Imagine a day out in the park, playing with your friends under the summer sun. Author Anne Miranda uses her brilliance to bring together 16 shapes and send them to a park. What happens next is a funny episode. While playing in the jungle gym, all the shapes get entangled with each other. Circle over the triangle, inside the square, and whatnot. Oh, what a mess! The shapes are laughing and crying for help at the same time. Who do you think will come to their rescue? Which shape will make an entry as a Hero and untangle them all? Read on to find out. You can order Tangled on Amazon and get it delivered to your address within the UAE.

#4 A Gebra Named AL

A multi-award-winning novel, ‘A Gebra Named AL’ is a must-have in your book collection. The story uses fiction to unlock the wonders of a fantasy world while teaching students algebraic expressions. Julie, the main character is a young teen lost in the land of Math. While walking through the number maze she finds herself introduced to Al the gebra (a zebra that is named Algebra) and also horses who carry elements from the periodic table. While searching for a way back home, she has fun learning the fundamentals of algebra and chemistry. We don’t know how soon Julie will get home, but she will definitely remember what was learned, thanks to the interaction with her new buddies.

Setting the right foundation for learning Math is important, especially for young students who are of ages 3 and above. A good start ensures a strong base where basic concepts are clear, so that moving forward, more complex math equations become easier to solve. Mathseeds is a unique platform that rewards students at every stage of learning and motivates them to indulge in problem-solving techniques. Many parents and teachers support the Mathseeds program by subscribing to it in the GCC regions including the UAE. Come join Mathseeds, and fall in love with quirky characters, structured lesson plans, and exciting rewards. 

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Space has always been a captivating subject for people of all ages. From the vastness of the universe to the smallest details of the planets and stars, space science offers endless opportunities for exploration and learning. Here are five fascinating facts about space and space science that will leave you in awe:

The sun is a star, and it is the center of our solar system. It provides the energy that sustains life on our planet. The sun is classified as a G-type main-sequence star, and it is estimated to be about 4.6 billion years old. In addition, the sun’s magnetic field and solar wind extend beyond the planets and affect the entire solar system. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections can disrupt Earth’s magnetic field, causing communication and navigation disruptions and beautiful auroras.

There are estimated to be over 100 billion stars in our Milky Way galaxy alone, and there are billions of other galaxies in the universe. This means that there are more stars in the universe than there are grains of sand on Earth.

It’s hard to comprehend the vastness of the universe and the number of stars it contains. The study of galaxies and their evolution is an important topic in modern astronomy.

Space exploration has led to many technological advancements that we use in our daily lives today. For example, GPS technology, satellite television, and weather forecasting are all possible thanks to space exploration.

NASA’s space program has also led to advancements in medical technology, computer technology, and materials science. As private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin continue to innovate, we can expect more exciting advancements in the near future.

Robotify is an online platform for learning robotics and coding, and it offers exciting modules related to space exploration. One of its most popular modules is “Axel’s Space Adventure,” which takes learners on a journey through space while teaching them the basics of coding and robotics. The module features a space mission where learners must code and control their spaceship to complete various tasks. Robotify’s space-related modules are a great way for kids to learn about space and technology in a fun and engaging way. In addition to “Axel’s Space Adventure,” Robotify offers modules on space rovers, Mars missions, and more.

The UAE is making significant strides in space exploration, and Dubai is at the forefront of this progress. In 2019, the UAE’s first astronaut, Hazzaa Al Mansoori, went to space and conducted experiments on the International Space Station. The Middle East is also working on sending a probe to Mars, which will study the Martian atmosphere and climate and search for evidence of water on the planet. It is exciting to see the progress being made in this field across the GCC regions. Dubai’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre is responsible for developing the Emirates Mars Mission, and it has also launched the DubaiSat-1 and DubaiSat-2 Earth observation satellites.

In conclusion, space science is a fascinating subject that offers endless opportunities for learning and exploration. Whether it’s through fascinating facts, exciting online modules, or the advancements being made in space exploration, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. With the UAE and Dubai making strides in space exploration and platforms like Robotify making space-related learning more accessible, there has never been a better time to explore the wonders of space.

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Statistics is a branch of mathematics that deals with the collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation, and organization of data. It plays a vital role in decision-making, research, and development in various fields. Learning statistics has become increasingly important in today’s world as data is becoming more prevalent than ever before. In this article, we will discuss the importance of learning statistics and how it can benefit students in various ways.

1. Critical thinking and problem-solving:

Statistics involves a lot of problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. Students who learn statistics develop the ability to analyze and interpret data, identify patterns, and make informed decisions based on the evidence available. This skill is not only useful in academic fields but also in various aspects of life, such as business, politics, and social issues.

2. Career opportunities:

Statistics is a highly sought-after skill in today’s job market. Many industries require professionals who can analyze data, draw insights, and make informed decisions. From data analysts to market researchers, there are many career opportunities available to those who have a strong understanding of statistics. Students who learn statistics are better equipped to pursue careers in fields such as finance, healthcare, engineering, and more.

3. A better understanding of research

Statistics is a crucial part of research in various fields, including science, social sciences, and humanities. Learning statistics enables students in Dubai and across the globe to understand the principles of research, design experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions based on evidence. This knowledge is not only useful in academic research but also in understanding the news, research studies, and other information that students encounter in their daily lives.

4. Improved decision-making skills:

Statistics provides a framework for making informed decisions based on data. Students who learn statistics are better equipped to make decisions that are backed by evidence and are less likely to be influenced by biases or emotions. This skill is useful not only in academic settings but also in personal and professional contexts.

5. Mathletics and learning statistics:

Mathletics is an online learning platform that provides students with a comprehensive curriculum covering a range of mathematical topics, including statistics. Mathletics offers interactive lessons, practice activities, and assessments that help students develop a strong foundation in statistics. By using Mathletics, students can learn statistics in a fun and engaging way, at their own pace, and in a safe online environment.

6. Importance in the Middle East:

The UAE has been making significant strides in various fields, including finance, healthcare, and technology. As the country continues to develop and grow, the importance of statistics is becoming increasingly apparent. Students who learn statistics in the UAE are better equipped to pursue careers in these fields, contribute to the development of the country, and make informed decisions that benefit society.

In conclusion, learning statistics is an essential skill for students in today’s world. It enables students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, pursue rewarding career opportunities, better understand research, improve decision-making skills, and contribute to the development of society. By using platforms such as Mathletics, students can learn statistics in a fun and engaging way, at their own pace, and in a safe online environment. As the GCC and other countries continue to grow and develop, the importance of statistics will only continue to increase, making it a vital skill for students to learn.

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‘Projects’ the most common jargon that we hear in offices is a reality of the corporate world today. There are teams who are allocated different job tasks and all work when put together forms a project, which is then presented to the management. By definition, a ‘project’ is an individual or collaborative effort that is carefully planned in order to achieve a particular aim.’

How can project-based learning be applicable to an Educational Institute? Well, in today’s highly competitive world, each school is trying to outdo the other and the IB culture is picking up pace. The ‘student-centered’ learning approach is being given more importance, where the child is the center of focus, and the lesson plans are incorporated basis the grasping capabilities of the student. Progressive regions such as Dubai in the Middle East, therefore pay focus on project-based learning due to a number of good reasons.

Here are a few advantages of the Project-based learning approaches:

#1 Collaboration

Usually, a project is a joint or collaborative effort by students who work together in groups on a topic that is assigned by the class teacher. While doing so, interaction takes place and there is an exchange of ideas. Students learn to foster friendships and learn about their own strengths and weaknesses. Another important skill they develop is the importance of listening skills. Good listening can help students develop the right attitude towards the workplace and learn to maintain positive relations with everyone. As they put it, ‘When there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.’

#2 Critical Thinking

Academic knowledge and technical capabilities are great in a workspace, but alongside that, additional competency such as ‘Critical Thinking ability’ gives a boost to the applicant’s resume. In the context of academic space, Critical Thinking means going beyond books or merely memorizing facts. It involves problem-solving and coming up with solutions using an evidence-based approach. Working on a project topic, say, ‘Gravity in our Solar System’ is a great way to get students digging the internet for information, referencing white papers, picking up a relevant book on Solar System from the library, and even interviewing relevant people from the industry. Executing a project in a hands-on manner will enhance the learning process manifold.

#3 Creativity

Chalk and paper barely give students the chance to express their creativity. A teacher-centric approach becomes more like a one-sided conversation where the aim of the school is to complete the assigned topics and get students to appear for exams. Contrary to this, project-based learning focuses on up-skilling the student by not only focusing on the academic aspect but also developing the student holistically. When assigning project work, schools in the UAE and other regions not only grade students for the quality of matter but also for the way it was presented and how innovatively the slides are designed. Children learn to use apps like Canva, Figma, and Slideshow Maker, which contributes to their knowledge of technical skills. Thus, project-based learning is the Holy Grail to unlocking creativity among students. TechnoKids follows a project-based approach and divides computer science lessons into modules. Students can collaborate, participate, and evolve at a solution, to enhance their coding skills and technical capabilities.

#4 Empowerment

It’s easy to study the Questions and Answers from an important pool of bank, but real empowerment is gained when students are given the freedom and independence to use their skills in the best possible way. IB Schools in GCC and other developed regions, organize an incubation cell that promotes the exchange of ideas and debate between teams, thereby empowering students to put their views forth. Executing a project comes with the division of roles and responsibilities, where one person assumes the role of a project leader. The project leaders then decides how to assign the tasks amongst others depending on each one’s strengths. Assuming a position of leadership at an early age empowers children to be more independent and identify their own capabilities. Celebrating one’s own achievements and reflecting upon oneself, is good progress in itself.

In conclusion, ‘learning by doing’ via project work instills a love for learning and passion which cannot be discovered in the pages of a textbook.

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