LeSMaT: a sustainable e-platform for learning science and mathematics together in the borderless world

Abstract

It is increasingly realized in the advent of digital era that the wise and critical use of scientific, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) are essential to enhance the quality and reach of education towards Education for All (EFA). In response to the call for Education for sustainable living and the building of better future , the ‘Learning Science and Maths Together’ (LeSMaT) in the Borderless World blended learning platform was designed to promote essential skills including thinking, technology, life(work/survival/entrepreneurial) capabilities targeting mainly educators and students in collaboration with stakeholders in SEAMEO region and beyond. The development of this platform includes the technical aspects of digital portal with index page to be linked with other sub - portals, with activities e.g. (1) to disseminate research - based best practices through ‘Learning Science and Mathematics’ (LSM) online journal; (2) to trace the historical development through linking to other previously developed portals e.g. SEARCH, report on current achievement and success stories with roadmap for future blended learning in the BORDERLESS world; (3) to be linked to other blended learning tools and networking partners; (4) to ‘ Enhance Teachers’ Continuing Professional Development with Higher Learning Opportunities (EnTeaCH); and so forth. To ease the user friendliness of digital platforms to promote online learning in an ubiquitous manner, the LeSMaT index page was created using CMS software supported by the centre’s server with the following technical features: HP Server; Windows 2008 Operating System; 10MB dedicated bandwidth; ShadowProtect Software (backup purpose); Joomla! 3 and above; Apache Server; and MySQL Database. The themes identified for science learning incorporating transdisciplinary approaches include: (1) ‘Telecare and Healthy Lifestyle’(TeleHeal); (2) ‘Conservation and Wise Use of Resources’(ConWUR); (3) ‘Climate Awareness and Disaster Risk Reduction EDucation’(CADRRED); and (4) ‘Sustainable Energy for All’(SE4ALL). It is hoped that this e- platform serves the purpose to sustainably promote learning science and mathematics together in the borderless world.