Heating and cooling experts help Isaac Brock students with virtual design project

RRC PolyTech experts recently gave Isaac Brock School’s Grade 7/8 students valuable insights into heating and cooling techniques in building design—knowledge that directly correlates to a current virutal project.   

Students are designing Minecraft houses that use passive and active heating and cooling methods, a project that supports a project-based learning unit about ancient civilizations. Students are learning how people in Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley managed extreme climates. 

"It was a wonderful opportunity to bridge the gap between historical knowledge and modern technology," said teacher Michaella Daylo. "It helped us design homes that are both innovative and energy efficient." 

The RRC PolyTech visitors brought 3D models to demonstrate historical methods and modern applications. The hands-on session showed students how poor insulation affects home efficiency. They also learned how ancient techniques have evolved into sustainable practices used today.  

"Having Red River come in was eye-opening," said student Willow Clark-Garner. "I was impressed to see all that they do. I liked seeing the buildings they made." 

This visit from RRC PolyTech didn't happen in isolation. Students began exploring design concepts through field trips and outdoor learning experiences earlier in the school year. 

"I liked that we started this project by going to The Forks and looking at the warming huts," said student Noah Whiteway. "I also liked how we talked about Indigenous values, culture and history at The Forks." 

These outside experiences prove valuable for student engagement. They provided real-world context for classroom learning. 

"It was good to get outside and learn," Noah added. "I like using what we learn in all our subject areas." 

Collaboration with post-secondary institutions offers WSD students a glimpse into future career possibilities, such as environmental design and architecture. 

"Going to the University of Manitoba was fun," said student Alicia Moneas. "If you want to be an architect, it is good that we got to see what they learn and do." 

During the RRC PolyTech presentation, students made connections between ancient building techniques and modern sustainable practices. A demonstration of insulation's impact helped them understand the importance of energy-efficient design. This knowledge informed their Minecraft house designs. 

"It was our pleasure to visit the school and share our work with Isaac Brock students," said Chris Urbanski, instructor at RRC PolyTech. "We were impressed with the amount and depth of questions from the students." 

The visit inspired students as they continue to develop sustainable housing solutions in Minecraft, providing practical knowledge that students can apply to both virtual and real-world situations.