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.
Integrating the Engineering Design Process and Challenge-Based Learning in STEM
By: Jamie Back. When I first learned how to integrate Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) and the Engineering Design Process (EDP) into my lessons, it was a total gamechanger. Here's what it meant for my instructional practice.
Getting Creative with Cardboard: The Perfect Mix of Learning and Fun
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over my 19 years as a parent is to keep it simple and to look for easy ways to tie together learning and fun. In this post, I take a look at a recent simple activity I organized that did just that.
Smart Review | Fire Forensics: Evidence and Claims
Fire Forensics adds a lens of reality to what Hollywood may want us to believe is a glamourous field, while doing nothing to diminish its allure and appeal.
Library 3.0: How 3D Printing is Helping Reshape the Library Into a Lab
By: Lizabeth Arum. 3D printing is transforming today’s libraries into cutting-edge learning hubs and giving communities access to technologies that are impacting such fields as scientific research, architecture, manufacturing, engineering, healthcare and more.
Using Robots to Teach Elementary Students About Human Nature
By: Hannah DeRusha. Breaking down big ideas into bite-sized applications can help introduce young learners to a new way of thinking. My kindergarten and first-grade students are learning about human nature this year through experimental play using robots.
A “National Math Storytelling Day” Story
Today is National Math Storytelling Day, an opportunity for us all--though especially the students among us--to get excited about math through stories and games, and help us appreciate all the ways math improves our daily lives.
Smart List | 40 STEM Networks and Maker Resources
If you’re anything like us, you’re always looking for new inexpensive (or better yet, free) resources that can introduce more students to STEM and maker education. Here are 40 good places to start.
Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know Your Makerspace Needs
Many makerspace components are commonly known. Here are 10 ideas for useful materials that might surprise you.
The Intersection of Tech and Design for Impactful Education
By: Rebecca Chang. Considering the exponential rate at which tech is growing, it is critical that we design the spaces where we educate the engineers and programmers of the future for inclusion. Here's one program that did just that.
Arts-Integration for the Future of STEAM Learning
By: Dr. Monika Wiley. In Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS), an arts-infused education has been the key to our successful STEAM program, improving both student and teacher engagement.