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Letter: Times article did not capture Farm Term rigor
Op-Ed · October 12, 2017
When students and staff read last week’s article (“Farm used for project-based education,” Oct. 5), we were glad to be featured in our local paper but disappointed that the academic rigor of Farm Term was not captured.
We are proud of our students because the conclusion to Farm Term displayed a high-level of dedication to their learning and ability to analyze and reflect at a level typically seen in much older students.
The Water Project delved into research and considerable calculation and statistical analysis of on-campus water consumption to determine if stored rainwater can efficiently irrigate the garden inside the high tunnel (greenhouse). In another project two students used research and a 3-D printer to design and construct a prototype model of an agricultural filtration system to control nitrogen run-off.
The Construction Project began with basic training on the safe and efficient use of carpentry tools, moved onto design and calculations, and finished with full-sized faces to each end of the high tunnel, complete with swinging doors that allow for tractors to enter.
Pastoral Poetry dove into readings and discussion of several classic and modern poets’ writing about farm and shepherd life.
Last, Animal Behavior applied both scientific methods and principles of Behaviorism to better understand how, among other creature endeavors, to get a pig to walk in circles.
I noticed with amusement that this involved just as much training of the trainer to correctly and consistently apply direction and feedback as training the animals themselves.
In sum, the Farm Term exemplifies our commitment to progressive education, college-level learning, and 21st century skill-building.
We move now into classrooms and what might be characterized as conventional college-prep courses, yet our spirit for creative inquiry remains undiminished. Both staff and students clearly want learning that is also fun and hands-on.
If any of the Times’ readers would like to see the Farm Term final projects, they will be on display with student presenters during our Harvest Festival on Oct. 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. We will also have fun activities for teens and families, an excellent dinner, live band, and bonfire. We would love to share what we do at Scattergood with the community.
Yours,
Thomas Weber,
Head of School
Scattergood Friends School & Farm
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