WRITTEN BY DR. SHAUNA SMITH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
3DE is a model for transforming high school education built around real-world business case studies integrated directly into our core curriculum. Instead of traditional, isolated subjects, students learn through problem-based and inquiry learning that is relevant to the real world. This approach is rooted in the belief that the best way for students to learn is by applying their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
The success of this program is a testament to the dedication of our educators. Their willingness to adopt this innovative, hands-on approach is what makes these real-world learning experiences possible for our students. Our 3DE teaching team at Marshalltown High School (MHS) includes Chad Pietig, Katie Mummert, Rachel Coulter, and Molly Walker at Marshalltown Community School District (MCSD). In addition, we have Karina Hernandez and Kaitlyn Peters as 3DE Junior Achievement staff supporting this work. This team collaborates regularly to ensure our 3DE students develop essential skills that are critical for future success in college and careers, including:
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Analyzing scenarios and solving problems.
Collaboration and Communication: Working effectively in teams and presenting ideas professionally.
Adaptability and Resilience: Navigating challenges and learning from failures in a safe environment.
A vital component of the 3DE model is the partnership with the local business community. We are incredibly grateful to Mechdyne for their willingness to take a chance on us and support our first case study. Their partnership has provided an invaluable learning experience for our freshmen who are in the 3DE program. The upcoming 3DE case challenge partners with MARSHALLTOWN Company, a local company that designs and manufactures tools for the masonry, flooring, and drywall industries. The challenge is for students to apply their critical and analytical thinking to a real-world business decision: analyzing two potential product expansion options for MARSHALLTOWN Company and determining which one they should pursue.
To complete this challenge, students will utilize a specific analytical tool called the DecisionTree. The DecisionTree is a graphic organizer that students will use to compare the pros and cons of the two product choices, allowing them to visualize the potential outcomes and risks associated with each option. This structure helps the students compare the positives and negatives of a business decision before making their final recommendation to MARSHALLTOWN Company.
The journey with 3DE has just begun at MCSD, and we believe the potential impact on our students is great as they become more familiar with our local businesses. We look forward to the continued growth of this program and the development of our students as they become innovative, adaptable, and highly capable future leaders of our community. If you would like to learn more about the 3DE program and if it is right for your child, contact Karina Hernandez at karina@jacentraliowa.org.