1. Developing STEM competencies
through Inquiry Based Learning

2. 4H Power of Wind Project
3M Provided a Grant for a Multi
State Power of Wind Project
Youth DISCOVER how Turbines
generate electricity through
HANDS –ON EXPERIENCE

3. Wind Power Expertise Needed…
 The explosion of knowledge has
made educators realize that
they just can’t “know it all”; no
one can…
 Effective teaching models today
assume the approach of the
“guide on the side” rather than
the “sage on the stage”.
 Your job is not to “know it all” but
rather to set up a good learning
experience for kids.

4. TOOLS…

5. Challenge: Generate Electricity

6. Completed Nacelle…

7. STEM COMPENCIES
 Ask Questions
 Use Tools
 Construct
 Predict
 Test
 Observe
 Measure
 Record Data
 Troubleshoot
 Compare
Results
 Optimize
 Communicate

8. 4H Power of Wind Training
Ames Iowa
1/21/10
Dr. Mike Lindstrom
Mike.r.lindstrom@gmail.com

10. Middelgrunden,Denmark

11. INQUIRY BASED LEARNING
 Inquiry Learning = Discovery!
 In inquiry-based learning, youth build
understanding through active
exploration and questioning.
 The key to Inquiry Learning:
◦ YOUTH seek answers to questions rather
than being given answers.
◦ ADULTS FACILITATE the learning
process and not simply disseminate
knowledge.

12. So what do we tell them?
 Any safety-related information (the
“discovery method” is not the best way
to learn safety)
 To reflect
 To try things
 To talk to others (including experts)
 Respond with a question when
possible
 Provide hints if needed

13. Where the Power of Wind is being
Taught