The Earth Systems Connections elementary curriculum: a world of contexts for teaching and learning remote sensing

Abstract

As humans continue to subject the global environment to greater levels of stress and demand, it is paramount that young children appreciate the significance and interdependent nature of environmental systems. The Earth Systems Connections (ESC) curriculum aims to provide integrated learning opportunities for primary students across a diverse range of cultural backgrounds that will help them: 1) recognize the interconnected nature of the Earth's systems; 2) appreciate the technological tools (e.g. remote sensing imagery and analysis techniques) that scientists use to conduct Earth system science; 3) recognize the extent to which mathematics, science, and technology are not only connected to each other, but also can help to understand natural phenomena; and 4) cultivate a spirit of curiosity and confidence in themselves as emerging thinkers and scientists who will be responsible for setting research and policy priorities in the decades to come. The ESC curriculum is being designed around three main themes. They are: GreenLinks, which addresses the central role of plants in the Earth system, Global Visions, where fundamental concepts of satellites and remote sensing are presented in hands-on contexts, and Migrations del Mundo, in which animal migration phenomena are used to demonstrate Earth system interrelationships. The content of each lesson is presented in contexts that require students to gather and assimilate information across many disciplines, including social studies, geography, art, and the language arts in addition to science and mathematics. The initial phase of the ESC curriculum will provide teachers with a core of 50 lessons connected across K-5 grade levels. While each lesson is designed with pedagogical and content innovation in mind, each reflects specific national content and process standards for elementary level mathematics and science education.