Blending Technology and Carpentry Learning: A Teacher's Perspective
At SUN Area Technical Institute, gone are the days of paper worksheet packets and static memorization. Today we’re blending technology, theory, and hands-on live shop projects with a focus on mastery of knowledge and skills in pursuit of industry recognized credentials.
As a carpentry instructor at a school where I was once a carpentry student. I’m dedicated to the youth learning experience and every learner’s success. As I transitioned from owning and managing my own successful construction business to the role of full time instructor, I understood that the trades learning experience needed to keep pace with the times. When I first started using technology with Core Learning Exchange (Core-LX) in my classroom, I faced a number of trials, but I persevered. I was determined to implement an innovative, blended approach to learning, and it has paid off.
Five ways Core-LX supports student success
Core-LX provides me with the ability to monitor my students' learning. I can see how much time they are spending on mastering each task and provide support accordingly. It also ensures that homework isn’t lost and dated when sections are completed. Core-LX is a critical tool that helps me keep track of student progress.
My students can now relate to what we are learning more than ever before. The method of delivery better reflects the world they live in, with 24 hour anytime, anywhere learning that’s very visual. Before COVID, students had to share computers, but now they can take them home, giving them the freedom to continue learning outside of the classroom. Students have been using Core-LX during school breaks and on the weekends, which is a testament to how much they are enjoying the learning experience.
In addition to Core-LX, my classroom includes a theory room and a lab-- all of which leads to preparation for the NOCTI exam. The lab is as real as possible, and delivers some content more efficiently through technology, it frees up the student’s time to spend working with their hands, which they love.
My classroom content has become much more dynamic and flexible, providing my students with a relevant and engaging education. Bringing everything online ensures we have the latest content that is aligned to what employers expect and helps meet the needs of our future workforce.
I would not be able to achieve what I have without the help of Core-LX. Integrating online mastery-based CTE with in person carpentry experiences enables me to address all the content students truly need. In this state students need to achieve 82% mastery on a given task on the Pennsylvania Program of Study Task List to be marked competent. I’ve been able to have many of my students complete 100% of the Program of Study with the help of using Core-LX and help with their understanding of the content in working on their hands-on projects.
I am excited to see how the program will continue to improve each year, and how I can provide my students with the best possible education. As someone who has sat in the very same seats as my students, I understand the impact that a great education can have. I am proud to be able to give back to the school and the community that gave me so much.
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Brian Lauver is a Carpentry Instructor at the SUN Area Technical Institute, providing a world-class technical education to both high school students and adults in Central Pennsylvania.
