Virtual Design Center

In step 2 you describe how your product/activity/lession will enable learners to meet standards for learning. You will be creating an inquiry-based activity that is structured around a specified dataset or resource and a research question. You will also identify a scientist or an educator with appropriate background experience.

Alignment and Design Space
In step 1 you began to work on your design document by drafting a rationale for your project. You identified your project and team members by name and described the project's targeted learner population and relationship to a compelling need. In step 2 you identify a research question and dataset and select a standard for learning (e.g., National Education Science Standards, Content Standard D. Structure of the Earth system). You specify three of your design space parameters in this step (see Figure 1).

You use the characteristics of your learners to make decisions about the remaining parameters of your design space. This helps you design a product that targets your learners.

Dimensions of Inspiration
When learners have more chances to engage in scientific practice, they build a deeper understanding of science and can identify with the work of scientists (mental models and identity). This can provide significant inspiration to the learners because they imagine themselves doing similar kinds of work in the future (imagination and identity). This step is very essential for this reason. By aligning your design with authentic scientific research and its data, learners see the direct connection between their work and the work of scientists.

Activities and NASA Review Criteria Matrix
The matrix below identifies and summarizes the activities to be completed in this step and explains how to meet NASA’s product review criteria.

Activity

Summary/Deliverable

NASA’s Product Review

Activity 2-1: Align the Science

Identify the science research question and a science resource that will help you develop an inquiry activity.

Complete Deliverable 2-1: Description of Science.

These activities address following review criteria:

A-3. Quality and Appropriateness
B-4. Partnership/
Sustainability
C-6. Evaluation/
Assessment
D-9. Content
E-10. Pipeline

Read Step 2 NASA Criteria Connect

Activity 2-2: Identify Standards

Identify standards that align with the research question, science resource, and learner characteristics.

Complete Deliverable 2-2: List of Relevant Standards.

Start the activities in this matrix and return to this page when you are finished.

DEBRIEFING
Through step 2 you have identified a research question, science resources, a scientist/educator, and standards. Take notes of any initial ideas your team formed for the inquiry-based learning activities and any learning technologies that would support those ideas.

Read the introduction in this page and reflect on the alignment, inspiration, and NASA criteria in relation to your step 2 activities.

Once your team is satisfied with the step 2 deliverables, submit them to the discussion board and share your experience for step 2. Your facilitator will review your documents and provide feedback.

In step 3 you will formulate an investigation question that motivates learners to engage in your inquiry-based classroom activity. When you’re ready, go to Step 3.