DACC recently partnered with Environmental Management, Inc. and Westerville’s Walnut Springs Middle School to bring Project-Based Learning (PBL) to life. This initiative, inspired by DACC's summer course for teachers, 'Making Learning Irresistible,’ saw Walnut Springs' 6th graders apply their studies in math and literature to a real-world challenge: redesigning their school's entrance.
Coordinated by DACC’s Career Readiness Coordinator, Lisa-Marie Reinhart, and with technical support from EMI, over 100 students worked in teams, brainstorming landscape designs. Part of their work was inspired by their reading of "Hoot" and math concepts of ratio and scale. DACC students from the Landscape Architecture and Construction and Wildlife Resource Management programs also worked alongside the middle school students to offer their guidance and expertise.
The project aims to transform these student-generated ideas into professional designs, with the final plans developed by EMI. This collaboration not only enhances the learning experience but also aspires to secure funding for the actual landscaping project from Westerville Schools. Through this partnership, DACC and Walnut Springs exemplify how hands-on learning can bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application, preparing students for future opportunities.
Related:
Learn more about DACC's Wildlife and Resource Management program
Learn more about DACC's Landscape Architecture and Construction program