Chesapeake High School in Baltimore County, Maryland implemented a virtual learning environment (VLE) to engage students and teach STEM subjects using innovative technologies. The VLE allows students to learn traditional content through 3D simulations and virtual experiences. Partners from businesses, higher education, and the community collaborated to develop the VLE's curriculum, train teachers, and provide student experiences like internships and mentoring. Initial courses using the VLE focused on science, math, social studies, and English to teach 21st century skills through collaborative projects in virtual environments.

1. Exploring New Worlds: The Virtual Learning Environment as a Model for Collaboration Baltimore County Public Schools, Maryland Magnet Schools of America 2010 National Conference Tampa, FL

2. Presenters: Maria Lowry, Principal Jason Bullerman, Technology Education Chair Janine Holmes, Social Studies Chair MiVida Parham, Business Education Chair Corinne Roche, STEM Coordinator

3. To provide an environment that fosters high standards for academics, relationships, and goal setting through a rigorous STEM-based culture. Mission Statement

4. Chesapeake High School STEM Academy Student Progression Flowchart Graduation Requirements for English, Social Studies, Foreign Language, Phys. Ed., Health, & Fine Arts Each student will also complete a 4-credit pathway in one of the STEM Academies below. Minimum of 4 Credits in Science Minimum of 4 Credits in Mathematics Minimum of 4 Credits in Science Minimum of 4 Credits in Mathematics

5. Arts, Multimedia & Communications Academy ____________ Photography Pathway Multimedia & Communications Pathway Science, Engineering & Mathematics Academy _____________ Pre-Engineering Pathway Environmental Science Pathway Biomedical Science/ Allied Health Pathway Mathematics Pathway Business & Information Technology Academy ___________ Computer Science Pathway Business Management Pathway Marketing Pathway Leadership & Humanities Academy ____________ Marine JROTC Pathway Criminal Justice Pathway

10. The Virtual Learning Environment The new VLE at Chesapeake High School is a sophisticated learning tool that blends state-of-the-art 3-D gaming and simulation technology with cutting edge classroom instruction. The VLE ushers in a new era of science, technology, engineering, and math instruction in Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) and capitalizes on the success of the existing STEM Academy at the school.

13. Purpose To advance teaching & learning through virtual experiences Entrepreneurs Higher Education Educators Executive & Engineers

18. The partnerships have opened doors to: Teacher externship programs with Lockheed Martin Mentorship programs for our students with engineers Real-world applications for the classroom Greater student-teacher collaboration Student collaboration with higher-Ed and engineers

20. A Tour of the VLE at Chesapeake HS

26. Sharing the background

27. Creating the Prototype

28. Integrating curriculum into the VLE

37. Thank You! Contact Information: Maria Lowry [email_address] Jason Bullerman [email_address] Janine Holmes [email_address] MiVida Parham [email_address] Corinne Roche [email_address]