eLearning - Schools Science Projects
The Rotor ride is the starting point for our science project. In 2006 the Archive began investigating the possibility
of creating eLearning materials using the resources and knowledge
within the collections. Initial investigations were to scope out
the relations between archives / galleries and learning establishments.
From this the Archive set out a best method of approach, deciding
to create curriculum ready materials that centred on the exact teaching
requirements rather than attempting to create general educational
material from the wealth of collections with the Archive. The proposal
is to work closely with teaching professionals and attempt to bring
an exciting and invigorating fairground theme to established learning
syllabuses.
We hope to initially present two prototype projects
- a science learning tool for GCSE level, and a dedicated module
to cover Unit 6c from the Key Stage II Design and Technology scheme
of work.
GCSE Science
This project will look at gravitational forces,
circular motion, energy transfer and magnetism, using theory and
experiences from the fairground and amusement park world. The learning
resource will be structured to work on a strict curriculum basis,
but be flexible enough to provide extended links into other exciting
areas that go beyond curriculum expectations. The Archive will draw
on its partnership work with bodies such as the Health and Safety
Executive who have provided complex detailing of aspects such as
'g-forces and the human body' and 'complex compunded circular motions
in fairground rides'. It is hoped that this material will be exciting
enough to create a prolonged interest in science and applied mathematics.
Design and Technology Year 6 - Unit 6c
- The Fairground
Science on the Rotor ride. This is a dedicated unit within the schemes of
work for Key Stage II. Whilst it presents an exciting opportunity
for teachers to develop an understanding of electrical control and
its use with rotating devices, it is often a frustrating module
due to the difficulty in completing the full extent of the module,
which puts the onus on teachers to create working models. Experience
has shown that the potentially most interesting aspect of the module
- creating a working fairground model - is often the most difficult
to complete.
The Archive is putting together a complete package
for the teaching of Unit 6c. This will include a web-portal that
shows how movement is used to create a fairground ride, the facility
to download a series of simple plans to build working models, and
the added ability to access on-line 'sounds' and 'artwork' to give
the model fairground a realistic edge.
We look forward to advancing both of these projects
over the coming year. Any interested parties should contact the
Archive .
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