Based on the Learning Framework from National Geographic, this app contains four sections that guide learners through visualizing themselves as explorers while they learn a topic, or investigate a question. It can be integrated into a project-based learning unit or used as a self-directed enrichment activity as students explore interests and issues they care about.
The app has four main sections that build off of one another. Launching from social-emotional awareness activities customizing an Explorer Mindset (MINDSET menu), learners then apply the attitudes and skills of the Learning Framework to plan an exploration of a question, task, topic or issue (PLAN menu). This could be a self-directed enrichment activity or guided by a teacher and integrated with a content area. Next, students implement their plan and explore their topic by mapping it (EXPLORE menu). Students can create descriptive location markers with photos to document their investigation or activities. Finally, students are encouraged to reflect on their exploration by creating field notes (ANALYZE menu) .
THE APP INCLUDES
A video library to learn about Explorer Mindset
Outdoor journaling activities to practice an Explorer Mindset
An interactive tool to reflect on, write, and customize your own Explorer Mindset, learning about the attitudes and skills of the National Geographic Learning Framework (MINDSET) Learners receive a PDF summary when they are finished that they can download or send.
An interactive tool to plan a learning expedition (PLAN) Learners receive a PDF graphic organizer that they can download or send when finished
An interactive mapping tool (EXPLORE) to create
An interactive field notes tool to craft a reflection of their exploration (ANALYZE)
THE STORY BEHIND EXPLORER MINDSET APP
Explorer Mindset App was funded by the National Geographic Society. Kelly Koller, educator and National Geographic Explorer, designed the app to help empower students to connect with their own inner-explorer as they learn. To complete this project, Kelly founded a non-profit organization, ExplorerMindset.org, to launch and sustain the resource.
Consulting services for the project are provided by John Flottmeyer from Voila Media Group. Heartfelt thanks to the 2020-2022 grant team of Carlina Capelo-Pichardo, Wendi Pillars and Judith Painter for their contributions, as well as to the many educators who share excitement for nurturing an Explorer Mindset.