EdCircuit StaffSALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Board of Education has named Propello’s inquiry-driven middle school science curriculum to the state’s approved Adopted Science Instructional Materials List. The list of High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) is designed to facilitate equitable access to first-class learning experiences for all students and classrooms. Propello, the Texas-based edtech startup, offers an affordable teaching and learning platform that includes hands-on labs, activities, and project-based learning that teachers can modify based on the unique needs of their students to create more personalized and engaging learning experiences. Oregon classrooms are expected to implement the latest updated science materials by Fall 2024.
Oregon’s Adopted Science Instructional Materials List denotes each of the adopted classroom tools and materials that have gone through a rigorous review process and are standards-aligned, culturally responsive, and reflect evidence-based practices. Propello gives districts and teachers the keys to unlock student-centered and inquiry-driven learning through the 5E model of instruction. This builds curiosity and engagement while ensuring students are active participants in the learning journey. Collaboratively and individually, students work to develop understanding through a variety of avenues as they explore, investigate, and build real-world applications of knowledge.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of the state’s adopted materials list and for the opportunity to empower teachers with engaging, inquiry-driven materials at a price that is accessible for virtually any district,” said Hubert Kjellberg, CEO and founder of Propello. “That is what Propello is all about – giving all students the opportunity to build knowledge and understanding through curiosity and engagement, not lecture and memorization.”
“A strong foundation in science, rooted in curiosity, has never been more essential,” said Amanda Bratten, Vice President of Content and Curriculum at Propello and a former teacher. “Not only because of the skills and competencies that doing science can develop in our students but because the knowledge gained while exploring our world has the potential to help us engage more thoroughly in other subjects and areas of interest. That type of engagement doesn’t start with students knowing the answers. It starts with asking the questions. An education where every student follows their path of curiosity–that’s an education every student deserves access to.”
Regarding the merits and value of inquiry-based learning, the 2022 Oregon Science Standards found that “Research shows that a cultural perspective can transform learning experiences to be more engaging and meaningful for learners. This is a fundamental shift from learning about a science topic to figuring out why or how something happens.”
About Propello:
Propello is a K-12 teaching and learning platform, intentionally designed by educators for educators that combines high-quality, customizable curriculum with embedded learner and teacher supports to propel learning and education forward. The company is on a mission to revolutionize traditional education models by providing advanced, customizable edtech solutions that unlock the full potential of both students and teachers, regardless of their background, location, or unique needs. Through student-centered and inquiry-based learning, the Propello platform drives heightened student engagement and outcomes while supporting teachers in their craft. For more information, visit www.propello.com.
About Oregon Adopted HQIM List
In Oregon, HQIM are basal instructional materials that include access to grade-level standards, inclusive practices, support for teachers and students, and embedded assessments. HQIM account for and honor the experiences of diverse learners, including educators, and their varying needs. Adopted instructional materials in Oregon are subject, by law, to an evaluation process and must meet established specifications and criteria in order to be approved for use in Oregon classrooms.
