Approaches to learning
Throughout this project, not only have we learned about a beautiful endangered species, but we have also been able to reflect on the impact of our actions in the natural world. We investigated about the Andean Condor by researching many webpages devoted to the understanding of endangered species and applying the research skills that we have learned in previous projects. Because we are working as a pair, we both did our research and later compared it to ensure credibility. Later, we answered the basic questions for any investigation: What? How? Why? When? Where?, which allowed us to verify that we had all the information needed considering Andean Condors and later categorize it to make it more clear for us. Once we had answered the questions, we organized the information once more in a website. We tried to make the information understandable, simple, and straightforward, which we personally consider is the best way to communicate any concept. We know about the Andean Condor, and it is proven because we created the website ourselves with the purpose of transferring our knowledge. The truth is, the best way to learn is to teach, so by communicating what we learned, we prove to ourselves that we know. Not only have we been able to communicate our investigation about Andean Condors, but we have also been able to reflect on the importance of helping preserve endangered species and understanding that we have caused their gradual disappearance, and therefore it is also our responsibility to help bring them back. As a whole, the project has been very successful because we developed our research, communication, and reflective skills, which will help us greatly in the future.
Environments
Throughout this project, we have been able to understand and reflect on the importance of every living creature and the impact of our actions in the natural world. Although we may not notice it, we live in a world where every single living creature is necessary and important for the welfare of all. Today, we live in such a hurry and desperation for industry and income that we forget that while we are gaining money and progress, we are losing something that is far more valuable, and that is our home, our planet. In our project, we researched about the Andean Condor. The Andean Condor is a vulture, which many people don’t find attractive or useful. However, vultures perform a vital role in the environment, for they clean it up by disposing of carrion. Besides, the Andean Condor is the national bird of 4 countries in South America, including ours, so it is important for our cultures too. We choose the condor as our national animal to stand on our emblem, and yet we forget about it as we drive it to the edge of extinction. We need to start to be consistent with our actions; if we want progress, let’s work to achieve real progress that involves responsibility, awareness, respect, and affection towards the world with live in and the creatures that share it with us.