This design project focuses on the ʻike ʻāina concept of learning from the environment using the process of makawalu (multiple lenses) via culture and place-based pedagogies. ʻIke ʻāina is the metaphorical ʻauwai or pathway to student success serving as the delivering of haʻawina (lessons) in a holistic way using learning centered approaches to real-life problem solving. This Plan B Thesis models and designs the student course and professional development for integrating multiple disciplines using STEMS2 pedagogies at Honolulu Community College (HonCC). Essential to the ʻike ʻāina approach is a “sense of place” and how place provides the opportunity to explore topics by blending ideas. ʻIke ʻāina approaches will allow for critical analysis of context and explore options for improving the environment with sustainability practices passed on by the kūpuna (elders).

STEMS² Pillars: Aʻo, Makawalu, Moʻolelo, Sense of Place, Advocacy