EDUCATIONAL FEATURES
The Wildfiles.tv resource:
- Addresses specific
learner expectations (SLEs)
from the 1996 Elementary Science Program of Studies
in Alberta (Grade 3: Topic E). These learner expectations
have been used as the basis for developing the 13
episodes and the activities in the Clubhouse. The
resource also meets many of the learner expectations
in Science for other grade levels and in other subject
areas such as Information and Communication Technology
(ICT), Language Arts, Fine Arts, Social Studies, etc.
- Encourages students
to develop and practice skills in science inquiry
through self-directed explorations, problem solving
and activities. Students are encouraged to ask questions,
consult experts and build on their prior knowledge
of animal species. The content has purposely been
presented with games and challenges to enhance interest
among students and encourage active learning.
- Addresses a variety
of learning styles. The
use of text, audio, video, images, music and interactive
activities, provide variety and choice to meet a wide
range of student needs and preferences. The Backyard
Scientist component (Hands on Science) encourages
active, hands-on experimentation which extends learning
into the home or classroom.
- Applies to a range
of grade levels and abilities.
Wildfiles.tv was designed with a minimal use
of text to allow students of all abilities to navigate
and view information. The option to listen to the
audio or read the text makes the content accessible
to a range of reading levels. Links to the glossary
assist children to learn scientific terminology and
three levels of difficulty are built into the puzzles.
In addition, the e-Zine challenges, polls, and requests
for content will permit students to extend their learning
into many areas of the curriculum independently, and
at their own level.
- Shows animal species
in their natural habitat.
The video footage of animals in their natural habitat
has been selected to demonstrate the actual behaviors
and habits of each species.
- Is wildly humourous.
Well, we think it’s funny. The songs, jokes,
cartoons, trivia and animation appeal to children
of all ages and help to maintain interest and enjoyment
in learning.
- Integrates subject
matter across several subject areas.
The information and activities can easily be integrated
into other subject areas including various units in
science, social studies, language arts, fine arts
and mathematics.
- Is teacher-friendly.
The resource is easy to use for both students and
teachers. Teachers may direct students to specific
areas or tasks, or students may select their own area
of study.
- Provides students
the opportunity to extend learning
independently through activities, research projects,
and science experiments. The online glossary and direct
“Lynx” to other Internet sites will help
students learn more about the featured species and
other species.
- Addresses the Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) learning outcomes
required for Alberta students. Navigating within Wildfiles.tv
or interacting via e-mail and the e-Zine allows students
to use technology to communicate, conduct research
and develop additional skills.
- Is interactive.
Learning is enhanced by encouraging students to extend
their knowledge by asking questions, consulting experts,
making independent explorations and investigations,
and submitting content to be used online and in the
e-zine.
- Provides practice
and study opportunities:
The file for each species contains a challenge in
the form of a quiz, which provides students with the
opportunity to evaluate their own learning in a non-threatening
environment. Students are provided with immediate
feedback on their results, and the errors are identified
with correct answers provided. Students may return
to review the material and try the quiz again to check
for improvement.
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