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.
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.
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.
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.
A Celebration of Cross-Curricular Creativity
By: Andy Plemmons. The interdisciplinary nature of the project means that students have multiple sources of support throughout the project, from the art teacher to intervention teachers to classroom teachers to the librarian.
5 Ways to Overcome the Challenges of Implementing a Genius Hour
By: Donna Harvey. I suggested finding a way to make Genius Hour, a time designed to encourage student agency and creativity. My team bought in and we set out on the journey of trying to figure out how to provide our students with the chance to work on their own passions.
5 Ways to Celebrate National STEM/STEAM Day
Today is National STEM/STEAM Day, and we want to take the opportunity to celebrate and come together over the importance of STEAM education. Here are five fun projects that can get students interested today.
The Case for School Makerspaces, According to Those Who Use Them
I recently talked with some innovative educators (and their students) who have utilized makerspaces in their elementary schools. Collectively, they noted the academic benefits and the development of 21st-Century Skills and growth mindset.
How to Grow Unicorns
By: Nancy Conrad. At the core of our competition is the opportunity for students to learn how to think, how to learn, how to be "no box" thinkers and how to develop their potential to become unicorns. Learn more here.
Science Teachers Are Storming the Hill, and Congress Should Listen
By: Maya Ajmera. On Oct. 13th, two hundred dedicated teachers from 44 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico convened at our nation’s capital to advocate for STEM education. Here's why congress should listen.
Review | Coding iPhone Apps for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Swift
For anyone with an interest in coding, an instructional, user-friendly book like this is a great -- and very affordable -- place to launch the skill of app development.