STEM & Maker
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Maker programs are the emphasis on more technical disciplines espousing innovation and invention as application, acquiring tangible skills that lean into those critical professions of the 21st century.
STEM & Maker
NFL Players Helping Students Tackle the Challenges of Tomorrow Through Coding
On this recent Tuesday, as part of Computer Science Education Week, these professional athletes traded in their pads and helmets to be Computer Science, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (C-STEM) Ambassadors. Learn more here.
Project-Based Learning
How Can We Bring Coding into Authentic PBL?
How can coding be integrated into authentic PBL? Perhaps more importantly, how can we develop a scalable solution accessible to all?
Ed Policy
3 Ways EdLeaders Can Level the Computer Science Literacy Playing Field
By: Dr. Idit Harel. While there is a lot of talk about the importance of computer programming and coding, there is less action -- and funding -- to support it adequately. Here are three ways EdLeaders can begin to change that.
STEM & Maker
Smart List: 25 Coding & Computer Science Resources
An Hour of Code is a great way to get started, but to celebrate @CSEdWeek we wanted to compile a few more resources for those looking to dive a bit deeper into computer science.
STEM & Maker
Making in a Middle School
This year we decided to create a MakerSpace elective at our 5-8 middle school. We offered it to incoming 6th graders on their course selection guides at the end of 5th grade, and we limited the class to 20 students. I was thrilled when the class filled quickly and had a waiting list!
Equity & Access
Global STEM Alliance Engages Youth and Mentors In Grand Challenges
There's a global STEM learning opportunity gap. Here's what the New York Academy of Sciences is doing to try and close it.
EdTech
Getting Smart’s Educational Gift Guide for 2017
It’s that time of year again… time to rock the giving season with the gift of knowledge, that is! Here is a set of gifts for kids of all ages that help in the development of skills such as creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration and persistence.
STEM & Maker
School Library Makerspaces: the Bold, the Brave, and the Uninitiated
By: Michelle Davis. To some, the traditional “shush” space of the library may seem like an odd setting for the hands-on, creative messiness of a makerspace. Yet many schools are nonetheless embracing maker learning within their libraries. Here's why.
STEM & Maker
Making in Math
By: Jamie Back. While a makerspace is nice, it takes only some simple classroom supplies to start “making” in math. The process of making concrete objects can lead students to a deeper understanding of abstract concepts.
Project-Based Learning
The Power of Constraints
In our classrooms, we often think we need to remove restrictions so we don’t cramp our students’ creative style. Apparently, though, the opposite may be true.