Youth Press
By: Jessica Rose Jardinel
“Having fun at school! I’m part of the press at a TEDx youthevent! #feelingimportant #TEDxYouth”
MSC student, Audrey, expressed excitement about her participation in the TEDxYouth@MSC
event as she engaged in the social media coverage of the conference.
At the Manhattan School for Children, the “fundamental premise is that children learn by doing
and need experiences in many forms and modes to reach true understanding.” You can read more of the MSC Educational Philosophy here.
This conference showcased the MSC Educational Philosophy in every aspect.
The sixth through eighth grade Student Council representatives acted as Youth Press, carrying
responsibilities in photography, social media coverage, and professional interviews. The young
leaders were given video cameras for event records and tweeted to the @TEDxYouthatMSC
followers.
Between sessions, they picked the brains of each presenter while they asked questions such
as, “What does sustainability science mean to you?” and “What is the most interesting thing you
heard today?” They discovered that students gained ideas from the adult presenters and vice
versa.
Dr. Dickson Despommier stated, “The most interesting thing I heard today is that you can use
bacteria to clean saltwater.” In exchange, when asked about the most interesting thing heard
at the conference, student presenter Margaux replied, “Dickson’s speech. The vertical farming
about how people everywhere are doing the same thing.” James Dawson also agreed, “I think
hearing Dickson’s speech and learning about all the other places that are doing this. I feel like
it isn’t a blurry idea, it actually is happening.” Furthermore, Myasia reflected on architect,
Gregory Kiss’ speech, “I found it very interesting that they want to build Vertically Integrated
Growing Systems in towers…” These threaded answers show a recognition amongst the
students that they are great contributors to an expansive global change.
“Sustainability science means how to be able to continue living this lifestyle. All we have to do is adapt so we can have an even better lifestyle,” declares student, Wesley Vasquez.
The children recognize that they contribute to a global movement, understand their social
responsibilities, and hold control of their future.
Interactive Education
By: Jessica Rose Jardinel
There is nothing more motivating than to see young student leaders excited about their education!
Not only did the MSC students share their experiences from interactive learning in the NY Sun Works Greenhouse, but they even modeled how they could implement these learning experiences to future designs and a sustainable future.
“I felt nervous on stage, but then I adapted and warmed up. I feel like I taught them something…” -Rodrigo (Student Presenter)
Students were able to address the social and environmental problems of today, and provided long-term solutions. The students showcased their innovative building modules to re-think places in the city, including: the theater, stadium, apartment building, grocery store, school, and library. Designs included rainwater collection, wind turbines, energy-generating plates and bicycles.
What does sustainable learning mean?
By: Nicholas
Sustainable learning is important. The times are different from the 1920′s. There are serious issues that could appear in the near future and we need to be ready. One major problem is global warming. Since we have put out so many fumes from the gas in our cars and burnt trash the world is in danger. Sustainable learning is learning to remember our past, evaluate the present, look into the future and take on these problems. By doing so we can prepare and help solve these problems. For example Manhattan School For Children has a greenhouse on its roof. This helps by giving a source of solar power, helping to grow food for soup kitchens and teaching the kids about sustainable learning including trash management and weather effects. The main problem with sustainable learning is how difficult it will be to switch over. The good thing about the greenhouse is young kids are getting exposed to eco-friendly ways to deal with problems. It is easier to learn when you are younger rather than older. There is no real switch when you start young.
But the greenhouse isn’t the only thing on the Upper West Side making a change. The Rainforest Alliance is also very focused on giving back to the community and being sustainable. They work on making sure the rainforest is safe and making all natural chocolate, coffee and tea. They hold a benefit every year in the whale room of the Natural History Museum on the upper west side of Manhattan. They help people in South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. This totals to over 2 million people in 20 countries.
So there you have it. People do care. People do realize the importance of sustainable learning. The goal of sustainable learning is to view things from a future standpoint. Not thinking about the after effects are what have gotten us (the world) into these problems so far. Sustainable learning is change.
