Smiths Falls students learn about agriculture, technology and community impact with geodesic dome

Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI) is turning a 1,200-square-foot geodesic dome, built in March 2023, into a hands-on learning centre focused on agriculture, ecology, and technology.

Students use the space to grow food and plants while conducting experiments on soil chemistry, optimizing growing conditions, and exploring planting techniques.

This winter, SFDCI plans to introduce aquaponics, supported by new computers and a 3D printer. Students will design automated watering systems using environmental sensors to monitor and manage growing conditions.

The dome is part of a broader initiative by the Upper Canada District School Board, with a similar structure operating at Char-Lan District High School. Both domes, known as “Learning Labs,” feature energy-efficient foundations, radiant floor heating, and ventilation systems that create a comfortable learning environment.

“Right now, we’re pretending the dome is a moon base,” said Science Teacher Meaghan Linauskas. “It’s a kind of thought experiment with some physical applications. The kids are designing the moon base with all the things that you would need for life support and researching how to adjust to the climate on the moon.”

“We had a presentation on the moon and we got to talk to an astronaut,” said Grade 11 student Xavier Theoret. “Companies are thinking of setting up a dome structure on the moon for astronauts to be able to stay there for a year at a time. It would be groundbreaking.”

Capping off a year of learning under the dome is the annual plant sale and workshop series that will take place in late spring. Proceeds from these efforts support The Table, a local organization dedicated to food security. This ongoing real-world learning partnership underscores the connection between the student work being done in the dome and tangible community impact.

“It’s about growing plants, getting them out into the community and sharing that knowledge,” said Linauskas. “The community connection and food security I see as the number one benefit.”

She also explained that the dome adds a unique space to the school that can be enjoyed by students for more than just learning. “It’s a physical space that’s unique to the school where you can get some sunlight and feel like you’re outside when it’s like a bleak winter day. It can be challenging to engage students sometimes, but when we’re here they get really into it. They see a challenge and they want to fix things, and they want to be part of what’s happening.”

“It’s a lot more engaging than just doing paperwork or writing,” said Grade 9 student Sadie Huneault. “It’s neat to see how well the plants grow even though it’s cold outside. Definitely a lot more interesting than just sitting in class.”