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Abstract
A STEM class differs from a traditional science classroom by shifting from teacher-led instruction to project-based learning. Students gain independence, confidence, critical thinking, and practical skills by researching and solving problems in teams. In this lecture I will discuss my experience with starting an engineering program at my school, and the successes and challenges I have faced.
Starting a STEM Program
By Annabella KrautTarbut V’Torah Community Day School
Outline
1) Why is STEM education important?
2) What makes a STEM class successful?
3) How can I start a STEM program at my school?
1) Why is STEM education important? We live in a fast-paced, technology driven world STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
related occupations are more in demand and pay higher than many other fields
Traditional science classes can provide students with background content, but rarely have time to focus on skills (very test driven)
Additional STEM classes can teach skills and critical thinking necessary to solve real world problems
2) What makes a STEM class successful?
Critical thinking
Problem solving
Teamwork
Project-based learning
Technology in the classroom
Example Student Projects
3) How can I start a STEM program at my school?
Funding & Materials
Teacher Training & Professional Development
Student recruitment
Technical support
PR and Student exhibitions
Funding & Materials
Inventory your current lab supplies
Create a wish list of materials needed
Submit budget proposal to administration
If current science budget cannot cover it, look for grants and outside funding
Useful starting supplies
Computers and internet! Basic electronic kits Microcontrollers Robotics Soldering equipment Tools
If you have limited funding, don’t panic, recyclables make excellent projects!
Arduino kit
Robotics
Lego EV3 - $3504 wheel chassis - $25Make your own!
Teacher Training
Enthusiasm counts! Get advice from experienced
teachers Go to summer training and obtain
ongoing professional development
Ex. Mathbotix in Irvine – Teacher workshops
Ex. Carnegie Mellon – Robotics Academy
Ex. Community college class on programming
Student recruitment
How selective do you want to be? Student applications & entrance
exams Behavioral or academic contracts Use students to recruit other
students Recruiting girls
Technical support
Ask experts in your community to help you
Look for parent volunteers or older siblings
Look for grad students from UC schools
Public Relations
Show off your student projects! Newsletters, newspapers and
magazine articles Invite community to an exhibition or
science fair hosted by your school
Ex. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/students-528794-stem-school.html
