You can contact LEARNZ, part of CORE Education, at:
Postal Address:
PO Box 13 678,
Christchurch 8141,
New Zealand
It would be one of the richest learning experiences I have experienced with a class.
Fantastic resource for all teachers, students and parents who participate.
We are itching to start the background on whales as part of our science. Students are really excited.
Literacy skills were developed within this Science context. The field trip provided an inclusive programme. Different levels could be accessed to suit needs within the classroom. The Maori vocabulary extends knowledge and provides further Te Reo Maori opportunities.
Our Enhancement group ranging in age from 6-10 all got value from the trip.
It fitted well with our topic about The Magnificent Marine we were learning about this term. Levelled reading pages were helpful.
I was amazed at how much the children could tell me about whales, and more importantly, explain to me the process that the scientists were using to research the humpback whales.
Although our classes were Year 2-3 we felt the audioconference answers were delivered at a perfect level for our students. There were plenty of resources we could use and adapt to suit our learners. I had two special needs students who thoroughly enjoyed various aspects of the programme.
We are starting science fair and this was a good introduction. Wide range of students who all enjoyed it and worked at own level.
Different reading abilities of background information. I actually used these for teaching reading groups. They were fantastic reading material with challenging information.
It is an excellent way to get the children excited about a topic - especially when we can't physically go out and do it. They experienced learning in a different way - a way that otherwise we couldn't give them. Children learnt a lot about types of whales - and got excited to watch the next video update.
Use of Maori words and history helps us connect to NZ and the culture.
Year 4-5 student comment: "It made me think of lots more questions".