Irvine Ranch Water District and Discovery Science Center Wrap Up Another School Year

June 13, 2012 - PRLog -- Partnership Began in 2008
Four years ago, IRWD and the Discovery Science Center embarked on a unique program – grade-specific water education assemblies would be offered to kindergarten through fifth grade students in the IRWD service area, using a state-of-the art student response technology.

“These devices resemble a hand-held television remote control,” said Shannon Reed, IRWD Public Affairs Manager. “Each student has one and they are used in conjunction with a PowerPoint presentation.”

At the time, IRWD was the first water agency in California to take advantage of this new technology. It allows pre-and post-program evaluations to gauge effectiveness of the presentation.

Recently, an assembly was given to fourth grade students at Lake Forest Elementary School. The presentation, “Aqua Duck Jeopardy,” was conducted in the same fashion as the popular television game show. Three student contestants chose from the categories of Life Science, Earth Science, Social Science and Math. While the contestant pondered the answer to the multiple-choice question, students in the audience entered their answers on the keypad. When the contestant answered the question, the results from the audience were shown on the screen.

“This is good information and engages the students,” said teacher Maureen Haggar.

Discovery Science Center and IRWD have been improving and fine-tuning the programs over the years.

“Irvine Ranch Water District is deeply committed to effectively educating students and their families about vitally important local water issues,” said Toby Gant, director of environmental education for Discovery Science Center. “We are pleased to partner with such a progressive and dedicated public agency.”

For more information about our education programs, please visit our website.