Transforming Classrooms with Technology and STEM Education
Last week, I attended a conference in Osaka aimed at school owners like myself. As the owner of Centauri Institute, I was eager to learn whether English schools were evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. At Centauri, we place a strong emphasis on STEM education, integrating technology and science into our curriculum in ways that become more pronounced as our students grow. Our goal is to provide a well-rounded introduction to both technology and language learning.
Unfortunately, the conference didn’t quite meet my expectations. While the attendees were warm and gracious, I found that many were not particularly focused on incorporating technology into their programs. Instead, the prevailing methods still relied heavily on traditional techniques—repetition, flashcards, and games—that have been in use since the 1980s. While these methods are effective, I firmly believe that Eikaiwa institutions must adapt to the current era to remain relevant and engaging for today’s students.
Some owners expressed concerns about adopting technology in the classroom, citing potential pushback from parents or fears that tablets might create the wrong impression. While I understand these concerns, I see them as opportunities to educate and involve parents in how technology can enhance their children’s learning experience.
The Benefits of Technology in the Classroom
The benefits of incorporating technology into Eikaiwa schools are immense. At the conference, one presenter introduced me to the term "gamification," a concept that’s been around for some time but is gaining traction in education. The idea is simple: students learn more effectively when they’re actively engaged with the material, and games provide a fun and interactive way to make this happen. This is why apps like Duolingo and various educational platforms for kids have become so popular—they’re enjoyable, motivating, and effective.
At Centauri Institute, we go beyond apps. Our students not only use tablets but also laptops to explore skills like basic coding and animation. It’s always amusing to see students instinctively tap the computer screen, only to have their teacher explain that not all PCs are touchscreens. Teaching them how to use a mouse and keyboard might seem simple, but it’s a crucial step in helping them navigate the digital world with confidence.
This early introduction to technology builds a foundation of "tech literacy"—a critical skill that gives students an edge in the modern world. Many people struggle with technology because they’ve never learned how to use it effectively. By teaching students to be comfortable with digital tools early on, we empower them to access information, conduct research, and learn independently.
Tech literacy also fosters personalized learning. With the ability to explore topics that interest them—be it science, dinosaurs, or any other passion—students can take control of their education in meaningful ways. This not only enhances their knowledge but also cultivates a lifelong love of learning.
Why Combine English Language Education with STEM?
Many people ask, "Why combine English language education with STEM?" The answer lies in the nature of our ever-changing world. Today, tech companies are often global, and the dominant language for communication between businesses, as well as in the fields of science and technology, is English. By integrating English with STEM education, we equip our students with the skills they need to excel in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world.
At Centauri Institute, we view English as more than just a subject—it’s a tool for opportunity. Combining it with STEM ensures that our students not only develop essential language skills but also gain the technical and scientific knowledge to thrive in future careers. Together, these disciplines provide a powerful foundation for lifelong learning and success.
A Favorite success story
One of my favorite projects at Centauri Institute involves animation. I once had a student who was particularly eager to learn animation using Adobe Animate. Over the course of her lessons, she created a 15-second animation of a dancing wooden doll set to music. It was an absolute joy to watch her bring her vision to life. The process was not only fun but also incredibly rewarding, as it allowed her to explore her creativity while learning practical skills in animation and technology.
Projects like this exemplify how we integrate STEM into our curriculum in a way that’s both engaging and educational. They give students the opportunity to develop technical expertise while expressing themselves creatively—an experience that stays with them long after the project is complete.
At Centauri Institute, we believe in the power of combining English education with technology and STEM to prepare students for the future. The world is evolving, and education must evolve with it. By embracing innovation and providing students with tools to succeed in a global, tech-driven society, we’re not just teaching lessons—we’re opening doors to a world of possibilities.
If you’re ready to see your child thrive in an environment that values both traditional learning and modern skills, we’d love to welcome you to Centauri Institute. Let’s shape the future together.
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