A Future Learning Space - 'Possibility Space'

Enmeshed together, the four learning spaces below will be part of a future learning space - 'possibility space', to learn about Quake Science and Safety. This specific initiative (from Teachers Without Borders) is my focus for creating a 'possibility space' where children from Port Au Prince, Haiti can explore, develop, experiment, take risks, share / discuss, play and express themselves.

I believe a combination of these spaces alongside the initiative 'Quake Science and Safety', will assist in a successful future learning space for children in a globally challenging environment such as Port Au Prince, Haiti.

A Collaborative Space.

Learning Beyond Four Walls.

E-Space.

Classroom Space.

Collaborative Space

Providing an environment that allows children to express and discuss their feelings about earthquakes and safety.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Understanding that building safe, well constructed buildings are needed to withstand sizeable earthquakes.

E-Space / Personal Learning Space

Exposure to technology can allow for children to connect with others who have experienced an earthquake as well as research relevant information to develop a better knowledge of earthquakes.

The classroom Space

Providing a welcoming, safe and happy classroom environment for children will ensure these smiles don't fade and they have a space they want to come and learn.

"Every child deserves the right to be a child, to learn, grow and achieve. To be inspired by something great and free to dream of possibilities." Megan Sproats 2017

Possibility Space - a FLS

E-space 'Possibilities'

Imagine the opportunities for children of Port Au Prince learning via an e-space. The development of ideas, knowledge and understanding about earthquakes scientifically and keeping safe, connecting with others around the world who've shared similar experiences. If set up effectively and resourcefully, the children of Port Au Prince can create, explore and discover within an online space. Learning about earthquakes and the science behind such a disaster and how destruction and devastation can be avoided if safety precautions and an awareness of the signs and what to do in an earthquake situation are researched, discussed and taught.

Children can:

- connect with others beyond their class environment

- share and communicate personal experiences with others globally

- create a PLN to share awareness of their situation

- teach others what they learn

- become independent learners

Learning Beyond Four Walls 'Possibilities'

The learning possibilities that can take place beyond the walls for these children will provide a community of discovery and exploration, whilst building relationships with others. Through hands on projects, children will build on knowledge for future planning and rebuilding of their city. They can use a real life experience which will enhance their learning. Technology, mathematics and science are areas that can be integrated into their learning about how to be better prepared.

Children will:

- learn through hands on opportunities to explore and create within their community

- use real life experiences to enhance learning and perspectives of quakes and keeping safe

- build self-esteem, increase social behaviours and interactions

- build knowledge and understanding about quakes through science experiments

- build / construct through technology / engineering opportunities beyond the class to test the strength of structures

- practice safety drills and what to do if a quake hits

Collaborative /Creative 'Possibilities

Creative possibilities through music, dance or visual art is a way the children of Port Au Prince can express themselves, individually or collaboratively. To be able to provide a space that assist these children's social and emotional wellbeing, is crucial. A space to be themselves, to laugh, smile, be entertained or to entertain. To move, sing or draw, allows them the freedom to be children.

Children will:

- learn to respect themselves and others

- be supported socially and emotionally

- encouraged to share and express themselves through various creative mediums

- want to attend school to learn, discover and explore the possibilities

- learn how to support and educate each other

- be happy

A FLS - 'Possibility Space'

A possibility space is a future learning space for children in a globally challenging environment to experience possibilities. This space, enmeshed with various learning spaces will enhance their lives, their learning and their future. They will learn about earthquake science and safety through working together discussing ideas and experiences, and preparedness for future earthquakes or natural disasters and the signs to be aware of. How to improve the buildings, structures and safety of these. The possibilities for children of all ages will mean they are provided with opportunities to be involved in the future rebuild of their city, whilst at the same time prepare themselves with the knowledge of how a disaster like the 2010 earthquakes and the destruction and devastation it caused, and how significant impact could be avoided. What these children learn now can prepare themselves, their community and their city for a safer and more prepared city and community for the future.

In a possibility space, children will:

- learn how to believe in themselves and their ideas

- feel safe

- have the freedom to express themselves through creativity

- be aware of their environment and community

- develop social skills with each other through interaction and opportunities

- become more familiar with quake science and safety

- smile and be happy

- be inspired

- be immersed in normality of school routines and learning

Earthquake Curriculum: Parsquake - A teachers guide to earthquake science, hazards and mitigation strategies.

https://www.scribd.com/document/202110793/Earthquake-Curriculum-Parsquake-TWB

Earthquake education in
Port Au Prince

Science, safety and possibilities!

Resources

These books are a selected few resources which could be used as part of learning about earthquake science and safety, for young to older children.

Resource 1

True facts and stories about the 2010 earthquake that caused such destruction and devastation.

Resource 2

A great resource to discuss the impact of an earthquake and how best to prepare for you and your family.

Resource 3

An introduction to the science behind an earthquake.

Resource 4

A great book to read with older children and discuss how to stay strong through sticking together and being prepared.

Resource 5

A child friendly look at plate techtonics and earthquakes through the eyes of a bird.

Resource 6

A true story about 'hope' and to keep going.

References:

Cherry, K. (2017). Self Efficacy: Why Believing in Yourself Matters. Retrieved from https://www.verywell.com/what-is-self-efficacy-2795954

Teachers Without Borders. (2017). Earthquake Education Curriculum. A teachers guide to earthquake science, hazards and mitigation strategies. ParsQuake. Scribd Inc.

https://www.scribd.com/document/202110793/Earthquake-Curriculum-Parsquake-TWB

Teachers Without Borders Website. (2017). Retrieved from:

https://teacherswithoutborders.org/

Teachers Without Borders. (2017). Quake Science and Safety Initiative. Retrieved from:

https://teacherswithoutborders.org/gqssi/

Videos retrieved: (from left to right - Vision & Mission FLS page)

Hass, P. (2010). When bad engineering makes a natural disaster even worse. TED Talks. You Tube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b98Iw_AeGQg

Saillant, S. Education Crisis in Haiti. You Tube. Published (2008).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEqKhyfIJmc

VOA News. (2010). Schools reopen in earthquake ravaged Haiti. Published 2010. You Tube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOrVfszk3BQ