In The Explorers Module 1A, we start building the foundation for the themes and skills to be deepened and expanded in the following modules. We ponder, plan, draw and build from all kind of different model building materials. Themes in this weekly course are the basic elements in architecture; for example colors, shapes, structures and space. The pupils are guided to observe the surroundings and use different senses. The pupils learn to classify, describe, explain, identify, experiment and test their ideas through fun and educational projects that deal with real life challenges. The pupils practise storytelling and presentation skills. The pupils are encouraged to be tenacious in completing their work and to appreciate the results of work. The pupils practise self assessment.
The Explorers Module 1B deepens the understanding of the various elements of space, architecture and the environment from interior objects to city scale. The pupils are guided to understand simple pictures, models, and maps as representations of the environment. The course program intertwines different subjects through project work and teaches artistic methods through hands-on activities. The pupils learn to review alternative theories and opinions and find perspectives on the problems. The pupils practise project and group work and collaboration. After completing this course, the pupil has a broad picture of what architecture is and has learned the basics of project work and design process. The pupils practise self and peer assessment.
The Explorers Module 2A offers a rich setting of themes covering for example scale, human proportions, structures and history as well as architectural design and city planning. The pupils practise principles such as measurement, length, mass, volume and various units of measuring. Spatial and environmental awareness are enhanced in the projects. The course introduces new techniques of artistic expression and promotes empathizing with the experience of the user of the space. The pupils will engage in phenomenon based projects and practise skills such as design thinking, complex problem solving and collaboration through team work. The hands-on projects are exploratory, inventive and experimental activities in which different visual, material and technical solutions as well as construction methods are used creatively. The pupils practise teamwork skills and emotional skills to strengthen their self respect and respect for others.
The Explorers Module 2B extends pupils perspectives to the build environment from smallest scale details to larger entities. During the course several architectural phenomena, such as massing, transition and vernacular architecture, settlements and urban areas are studied. The individual projects in this module intertwine different phenomenon related to our built environment and introduce various combinations of STEAM & beyond subjects through architecture and design projects. During the course the pupils learn to observe, analyze and evaluate the build environment as well as deepen their knowledge on structures and construction as well as architectural design and city planning. The pupils are guided in working systematically and persistently in their projects, which lays a good foundation for project management skills. The pupils practise expressing their opinions and justifying their views throughout the course.
The Experimenters Module 3A is a starter course that covers a wide range of topics that are the core concepts in design and architecture. The course provides a solid foundation for the knowledge and skills to be deepened and expanded in the following courses. The pupils will be introduced various techniques of creative thinking and designing, such as planning, drawing and building with all kind of different model building materials.
Projects in this course combine design and technology, mathematics and history and make an excellent scenery for pupils to develop their higher order thinking skills through project based learning. Teaching and learning develop the pupils’ capacity of using and applying mathematics in real life phenomena in a versatile manner, for example applications of basic arithmetic operations and the use of differens scales. The pupils are supported in building a healthy self-confidence and a positive self-image for example by hearing and appreciating their thoughts and experiences.
The Experimenters Module 3B deepens the knowledge of pupils in STEAM & beyond subjects such as engineering, history and ergonomics as well as housing and city planning. Innovation skills are fostered through design projects that integrate multiple subjects. The pupils are guided to understand the nature and built environment and the related phenomena. The pupils are guided to use different tools, materials, technologies, and means of expression diversely.
In this course advanced skills, such as design thinking and co-operation are fostered through team planning project work as well as individual challenges. The pupils receive diverse feedback that encourages them to express their own thoughts and appreciate the views of others. The pupils are supported in building a relationship with the natural environment, developing their worldview, and growing as human beings.
The Experimenters Module 4A offers a rich setting of interesting projects that combine and examine design and technology from different viewpoints.
The holistic projects combine subjects such as math, history, geography, biology and architecture, and include the perspective of sustainable development. Passing on and reshaping traditions are supported by reinforcing the pupils’ awareness of cultural heritage. The multidisciplinary nature of the studies encourages the pupils to acquire, process, produce, present, evaluate and appraise information in different situations. Throughout the course the pupils are encouraged to practise their presentation skills related to their own project work. Reflective and positive cooperation and interaction skills are practised. Teaching and learning support the development of the pupils’ critical thinking and encourage them to influence their surroundings and the society.
The Experimenters Module 4B engages pupils in real life phenomenon through multidisciplinary activities, both through individual challenges as well as teamwork and collaboration projects.
Pupils will dive into the world of objects and artifacts as well as larger entities. The themes include furniture design, engineering and 3D drawing techniques. Through the different projects the handicraft skills are practised as well as mathematical and 3D thinking.
Teaching and learning develop the pupils’ capacity to understand the usefulness of mathematics in their own lives and more broadly in the society. The projects promote skills such as synthesizing, analyzing and reasoning. The innovative working processes and positive experiences strengthen the self-esteem and promote the joy of learning. Expression skills are practised with a focus on developing cooperation and interaction skills.
