Being situated in the heart of a culturally diverse and globally connected city like Melbourne creates an unparalleled learning environment. Using the city as an extended classroom will enable what we call an ‘exploratorium’ approach to learning.
An exploratorium is best described as an environment that encourages learning through direct experience, exploration and hands-on experimentation. Not only is this approach to learning highly engaging and fun, it also develops imagination, creativity and self-confidence and leads to the growth of critical thinking and decision making. For example, robotics may be used to engage, excite and teach problem solving and enquiry while young people will be encouraged and guided in exploring, discovering, learning to ask the right questions and searching out solutions. This may spill into connected adventures at a local robotics exhibition, university department tour or contact with the robotics industry.
The concept of an exploratorium will form part of the context for each young person’s customised learning plan.
