Dr. Caroline Carlin with Jackie in the SmartLab
When Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School opened the doors earlier this month, students found a new learning experience waiting for them. That’s because OLPH has added a special kind of classroom called a “SmartLab.”
Dr. Caroline Carlin, the school’s principal, said, "The SmartLab is a state-of-the-art classroom called a STEM center (for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). In addition to working with leading-edge technology, students develop critical skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, project management and communications.”
SmartLab students work in teams to develop scientific data and analysis projects, circuitry, computer graphics, digital communications, mechanics and structures, alternative and renewable energy, software engineering, and robotics and control technology. In the SmartLab, students have the opportunity to explore their project ideas under the supervision of a special kind of teacher called a facilitator. Instead of taking exams, students create e-portfolios to document their learning.
“It’s a challenging learning experience,” said Teresa Hale, SmartLab facilitator, “but because students can explore topics of personal interest, they can rise to the challenge.”
The new SmartLab at OLPH is the first in the Chattanooga area designed and installed by a company called Creative Learning Systems. Creative Learning Systems has been developing technology-based classrooms since 1987. Ashley Mathis, the company’s CEO, said with STEM occupations growing twice as fast as all others in the US, it’s critical that educators provide learners with hands-on, student-led, project-based learning opportunities.”
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Pastor, Father Arthur Torres, said, “I know our students will be excited by the new SmartLab. Our community should certainly be proud of this new next-generation learning resource.”
The new SmartLab at OLPH