Learning by Doing: How Hands-On Courses in Zoology and Mechatronics Prepare Students for the Future

Hands-on learning is a powerful approach for engaging students and fostering a deep understanding of complex concepts. When students actively participate, whether through dissections in middle school Zoology or circuit-building in high school Mechatronics, hands-on learning helps students build problem-solving and critical thinking skills and boosts retention of information. 

At Issaquah Middle School, students can select Zoology as an elective course, giving them a comprehensive look into the animal kingdom by studying anatomy, physiology, behavior, and classification, from sponges to complex mammals. Dissections, simulations, and model-building strengthen students’ comprehension of biological systems while also developing practical skills like teamwork.  

“Students love the two dissections that we do, worms and squid. Being able to interact with the specimen in person allows them to see internal and external structures up close to help them understand how these adaptations help the organism survive,” explains Zoology teacher, Hayley Beck. 

One course highlight is a living earthworm investigation where students observe a worm’s responses to different stimuli, such as touch, smell, and light.  This hands-on approach provides students the opportunity to practice using scientific observation instead of just reading about worms. “Students are curious and want to get their hands on things to understand them. They want to learn by doing, not just by reading or listening to lectures,” Beck adds. 

Eighth-grader Ryan I., who is considering a career in medicine one day, found the worm dissection fascinating for exploring his interest in anatomy. Seventh-grader Jack O. was captivated by the squid dissection, where he learned that squids have excellent eyesight with no blind spots. Nedal W., also in seventh grade, was surprised to learn that squids have three hearts. According to Beck, these dissections let students "see internal and external structures up close," helping them understand how specific adaptations contribute to an organism’s survival. 

In the Mechatronics course at Skyline High School, students dive into digital electronics, robotics, and computer-integrated manufacturing, providing an immersive introduction to the fields that power modern technology. “Engineering careers are a popular choice among students in the Issaquah School District,” Mechatronics Teacher Scott Newton explains.  “The Mechatronics program prepares students for both higher education and careers in engineering by providing exposure to various engineering disciplines. Students interested in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Mechanical Engineering gain valuable experience in these fields while exploring career opportunities within Mechatronics, which integrates all three areas,” explains Newton. Additionally, Mechatronics students earn an OSHA-10 industry-recognized credential, which enhances their resumes. 

For students, projects like building a four-bit circuit are both challenging and rewarding, providing a hands-on understanding of digital electronics principles. "The connection made by creating a physical implementation of rigorous theoretical concepts is a great way to reinforce students’ learning,” Newton shares, noting that building circuits by hand helps students understand the concept from multiple viewpoints, and they will be better engineers as a result. 

“Hands-on is more engaging and helps us retain information,” sophomore Rishabh Fandan explains.  

“We have fun, and what we are learning is applicable in real life,” junior Emily Kong echoes and emphasizes that “the integration of hands-on projects keeps people more focused and allows us to use our creativity and problem-solving skills.” These real-world applications make a lasting impact, deepening students’ understanding and preparing them for future coursework and careers. 

Both Zoology and Mechatronics go beyond content knowledge, equipping students with critical skills for post-secondary learning and future careers. In Zoology, students develop observation and analytical thinking skills through hands-on labs, dissections, and projects that simulate the scientific process. In addition, the course also includes projects like creating a public service announcement (PSA) and a zoo exhibit proposal, which help students develop real-world skills essential for any future career path. 

In Mechatronics, students gain expertise in troubleshooting and problem-solving through the design and implementation of their projects. Newton explains that students face challenges in their robotics and digital electronics builds, but resolving these issues bolsters perseverance and technical skills. “The real learning takes place when students identify and resolve problems in their designs so their projects can function properly,” he notes, emphasizing that these moments of challenge prepare students for complex engineering environments. 

Senior Mikayla Mirador said she appreciates how the course fosters skills she’ll need in a future STEM or architecture career. “I like learning by doing, so hands-on activities stick with me,” Mirador adds.  

“I want to be an engineer, and this course is helping me develop a base of knowledge that will be helpful in the future,” says sophomore Dhir Goosari, highlighting the career-relevant learning the course provides. 

Hands-on learning in courses like Zoology and Mechatronics provides students with a powerful way to engage with the world around them. In Zoology, students gain respect for animals and ecosystems and are exposed to fields like environmental science and medicine. In Mechatronics, students gain insight into the technology and manufacturing systems that power everyday life, seeing how these fields converge to solve real-world challenges.  

As Newton notes, the collaborative, project-based nature of Mechatronics teaches students teamwork skills essential in any field. “In the workplace, students often collaborate on projects in teams, making Mechatronics an excellent course for practicing interpersonal skills,” he explains. Whether dissecting a squid or building a functioning circuit, these experiences bring learning to life. By incorporating a hands-on approach, these courses equip students with the curiosity, confidence, and knowledge they’ll need to thrive in an increasingly complex world. 

Above, Issaquah Middle School teacher Hayley Beck guides students through a squid dissection.

Above, Skyline High School teacher Scott Newton assists students with circuit breadboards in Mechatronics class.