STEM
STEM is a curriculum that encompasses four specific disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The four disciplines are grouped together and taught with the emphasis on real life application. At Quantum Academy, the focus when teaching STEM are on engaging in inquiry, engaging in logical reasoning, interpreting and communicating information. The Quantum programs build the foundation for students to succeed on their STEM journey offering guidance in general sciences and mathematics.
STEM Journey
Our Course Streams
PRIMARY
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JELIC
Grades PreK-2
JELIC is an international enrichment programme designed for children ages 3 to 7. The JELIC curriculum balances the development of both hemispheres of the brain through self-paced hands-on experiences. JELIC facilitates the development of a child’s multiple sources of intelligence. JELIC can help children sharpen their sense of observation, train their hands for tactile manipulation, enhance their curiosity for discovery, build their self-confidence, and develop strong interpersonal skills.
PHILOSOPHY OF JELIC:
• Self-motivated learning
• The role of teachers as navigators
• Discover the fun and curious nature of exploration
• Build self-confidence through teachers' encouragement
• Develop strong interpersonal skills to create connections
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MPM Math
Grades 1-6
MPM is a leading math program that encourages students to become independent problem-solvers and critical thinkers through cultivating an enjoyment in math. Students are categorised into different levels with their grade levels in mind as well as their current logical capabilities based on an initial assessment. Students who learn through the MPM program learn complex mathematical concepts and have the opportunity to solve sophisticated math problems using foundational skills they develop within the program.
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Math Contest Prep
Grades 1-7
Students are encouraged to take math contests to build on their ability to solve problems creatively. Quantum’s math contest prep course is designed to train students’ to think critically and problem-solve efficiently. The course allows students to experience the different types of math exams and associated problem-solving techniques. Students are able to develop logical learning through classroom training and mock exams.
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Coding Class
Grades 4-7
At Quantum, we offer a fun and engaging coding class for elementary school students. This class is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of coding and computer science, while also helping them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Throughout the course, students will learn basic coding concepts using visual programming languages, such as Scratch or Blockly. They will also have the opportunity to practice coding and programming by completing various projects and activities.
SECONDARY
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Math
Grades 8-12
Math is a subject that relies on the accumulation of knowledge and concepts year after year. In order for students to succeed, strong fundamental math and problem-solving techniques are required. Quantum Academy strives to bridge the gap in students’ initial capabilities and focus on helping students break down questions into manageable steps. By solving problems methodically, students can tackle even the most difficult of questions.
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Math Contest Prep
Grades 8-12
Students are encouraged to take math contests to build on their ability to solve problems creatively. Quantum’s math contest prep course is designed to train students’ to think critically and problem-solve efficiently. The course allows students to experience the different types of math exams and associated problem-solving techniques. Students are able to develop logical learning through classroom training and mock exams.
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Coding Class
Grades 8-12
At Quantum, we offer an interactive and comprehensive science class for high school students in BC. Our science class is designed to help students understand and apply scientific concepts to problems, as well as develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in biology, physics, chemistry, and in other facets of their academic and personal lives.
The class is tailored to BC’s curriculum requirements, ensuring that students experience new concepts that supplement their in-school education.
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Coding Class
Quantum offers a comprehensive coding class for high school students. Taught by expert instructors, the class covers programming concepts spanning industry-standard programming languages such as Python, Java, and JavaScript. Students will learn to code through interactive hands-on experience. They will complete projects and explore real-world coding scenarios, allowing them to apply their newfound knowledge to a world that is familiar to them. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in programming concepts, ideal for pursuing further studies in the field of computer science.
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AP Courses
AP (Advanced Placement) is a program run by the College Board that allows high school students to take college courses for university credit, with the opportunity to take more advanced courses when they start college. AP is a great way for students to show their passion for a certain subject and their ability to pursue challenges, which differentiates them from other students when applying for universities. We offer a variety of AP courses such as AP English and Language Composition, AP Psychology, AP Calculus, and AP Statistics. Preparing for AP exams will help students make the transition from high school to university.
STEM Instructors
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Gary Lenihan
B.Sc.
Director and Science Instructor
Gary has almost twenty years of experience in IT education, as well as a degree in Chemistry from Dalhousie University and a diploma in Information Technology. He has partaken in the establishment of five independent IT schools across North America. He also has over a decade of teaching experience in programming, math, physics and chemistry. He understands and values the importance of post-secondary and adult education.
Gary has been awarded the best teacher for many years at ITI for his dedication and excellence in delivering challenging curriculum. He is well-known for his strong logic and reasoning skills; his way of explaining and teaching has effectively helped many students reach their goals and gain confidence. Gary looks forward to continuing to facilitate students in discovering their passion on which they will thrive.
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Dawn Shum
B.Sc, MBA.
MPM & Science Instructor
Dawn obtained her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Nutritional Science from UBC. In her first year at UBC, she was granted the International Major Entrance Scholarship because of her exceptional performance. Her past experience as an international student has allowed her to identify what kinds of struggles are being encountered by international students nowadays, and she wants to use what she has learned to provide guidance to these students, enabling them to achieve their goals.
Dawn enjoys working with different age groups, which has inspired her to pursue the path of becoming a teacher. She believes that educators play a critical role in helping students discover their unique talents, and she hopes that by creating effective strategies around different learning capabilities, her students can grow independently and maturely through self-reflection and improvement.
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Robert Ruan
Ph.D.
STEM Instructor
Dr.Robert obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Alberta. Not only does he have more than a decade of experience in the field of spatial statistics, but he also has an extensive background in computer programming and analysis, simulation work, and scientific research. He has been a professor at UBC and SFU.
When it comes to helping high school students understand statistics, Robert believes in using real life examples to explain problems. He compiles his own AP statistics teaching materials, which include course handouts, review materials, and problem sets. Robert can guide students who are looking to add some college-level statistics courses to their workload in order to improve their AP test scores.
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Lala Wang
B.Sc., M.Sc
Science Instructor
Lala received her Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Chemistry, then went on to obtain her Master’s Degree in Polymer Chemistry and Physics at her university. She began her career in 2004, teaching science at different educational institutions in China, before moving to Vancouver and working with students from level K to Grade 12 in Chinese, English, Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Science.
Lala believes that the key to teaching is patience, and that building a strong connection with students is all about getting to know their interests and figuring out what makes them excited to learn. She makes sure to create lesson plans that are specifically tailored to suit a student’s needs, personality, and interests. She hopes that by building an individualized classroom environment, students will be inspired to pursue their goals as they continue on their journeys through education.
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Thomas Cui
B.Sc.
Science Instructor
Thomas graduated from UBC with a Biology degree and currently has 6 years of experience tutoring K-12 years. He specializes in high school math, biology, physics, and chemistry, although this extends to customizable programs, such as AP and IB curriculums, or math challenges and contests as well.
He believes that the best way to learn is to build high-efficiency study habits that will stick with students for life and help them apply their critical thinking skills to different problems. Thomas also wants to teach his students how to utilize their knowledge—along with their own unique perspectives—to their highest potential, so that they will be prepared for any number of situations down the road.
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Alex Pi
B.Sc, M.Sc
Math & Science Instructor
Alex is completing his master’s degree in Chemistry in which he is investigating protein-protein interactions responsible for proposing a viral link in multiple sclerosis, a condition detrimental for most patients. Alex is able to inspire his students to grasp fundamental scientific concepts and encourage them to learn to the best of their ability.
Alex serves as a great example for the younger students. He has always been motivated and very well-rounded. He is not only academically exceptional but also musically talented. In high school and throughout university, he has performed as a beatboxer numerous times in front of hundreds of audiences and composed music in his spare time. As a former Quantum Student himself, Alex serves as a positive and inspirational role model for all the students at Quantum Learning Academy.
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Mason Song
B.Sc., B.M., M.A.,
STEM Instructor
Mason Song graduated from a top science and engineering university with a double major in computer science and management, and a master's degree in economics. He served as a science teacher in a private high school in Canada for several years. Mason was a science prodigy during his student days, scoring close to perfect in his physics and mathematics college entrance examinations.
He is skilled at teaching according to students' abilities and understanding, explaining complex concepts in simple terms, and adjusting his teaching pace based on students' comprehension and learning styles. He helps students solidify their mathematical foundations, by gradually increase the difficulty of course content as students’ confidence builds over time. At Quantum, Mason serves as a high school science, AP Calculus, AP Physics, IB Math, computer programming, SAT, and competition instructor.
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Nick Cui
B.SC
STEM Instructor
Yuning Cui, also known as Nick, is a dedicated educator and engineering technology specialist. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology Education with a minor in Design Innovation from Purdue University. Nick received his Indiana teaching licence.
Throughout his time at Purdue University, Nick has gained extensive experience in the education field. He has worked as a teaching assistant at William Henry Harrison High School and Klondike Middle School, where he provided academic support to students and assisted teachers in classroom management.
In addition to his proficiency in English, Nick is also fluent in Chinese. With his diverse skills and experiences, Nick is poised to make a positive impact in the education field and inspire the next generation of learners.
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Benjamin Axford
B.Sc
STEM Instructor
Benjamin Axford is a passionate teacher with a strong focus on the International Baccalaureate (IB) system. As an IB graduate student himself, he has a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by IB students and is dedicated to providing exceptional support. With his teaching experience as a physics teaching assistant at the University of British Columbia, Benjamin supervised labs and tutorials, and helped students understand complex physics concepts.
Benjamin has strong research experience, having worked as a research assistant, and developed expert skills in data analysis and system modeling using Python and Matlab. He is proficient in a variety of computer languages and software, including Java, C, Assembly, Lua, Git, COMSOL, and SolidWorks.
At Quantum, Benjamin specializes in providing tailored support to help IB students achieve their learning goals.
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Josephine Chiang
B.A
MPM Instructor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Tang Ji
B.Sc., M.Sc.
Math Instructor
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Josh Yang
B.Sc.
Science Instructor
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Carina
B.A.
MPM Teacher
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