Paula Evans

Evans’ innovative teaching idea, “Energy STEAM Project,” is a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) problem-based learning project focused on increasing students’ knowledge of heat transfer and solar passive energy in different environments. Initially, as part of the program, students will be challenged with designing a nest, virtually, for a penguin whose habitat is being threatened. Once they have understood how heat transfers in that habitat, they will have the opportunity to design an energy efficient classroom or school. Teachers will use the findings from their experimental designs to determine how they can reduce energy costs in Hillcrest Middle School, so that they can dedicate those savings to other programs that can benefit the students. In addition to the practical use of the lab results, Evans believes students will learn teamwork and collaboration, improve their multi-media presentation and public speaking skills, and increase their ability to innovate to solve real-life problems.