Low-Tech, No-Tech STEAM……Isn’t that an oxymoron? Actually, no, it’s not! STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education combines Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math to guide inquiry, discussion, collaboration, and critical thinking. It is still STEAM teaching, even if it is low or no tech. Technology is a broad topic; it does not have … read more »
Summer is the perfect time for students to explore their creativity through maker projects and design challenges! These activities give students the freedom to create, experiment, and engage in self-directed learning, using materials found at home or provided in kits sent from school. Whether short and simple or long-term and immersive, maker projects encourage problem-solving, … read more »
Designing instruction that addresses many unique learning styles and individual student needs is vital in today’s diverse classrooms. Multimodal learning is a powerful approach to instruction that engages learners of all backgrounds, abilities, and preferences by offering activities in many different formats. This learning approach enhances classroom communication by including supportive and inclusive lessons that … read more »
“If you know you are on the right track, if you have this inner knowledge, then nobody can turn you off… no matter what they say.” Barbara McClintock, cytogeneticist and winner of the 1983 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine As we approach the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11th, … read more »
Makerspace activities excite and engage students and offer them a multitude of academic and mental health benefits! Cost should never be a barrier to implementation of makerspace activities in your classroom. Low-cost/no-cost makerspace activities are as engaging and exciting for students as higher priced activities. You can easily obtain low-cost or no-cost makerspace materials! You … read more »
What can your public library do for you as a teacher or school librarian? Schools and public libraries working together is a winning combination! Public libraries offer a wide variety of services as well as learning, programming, and collaboration opportunities for teachers and school librarians. Finding your closest public library is a breeze with the … read more »
According to the American Association of School Librarians, inquiry-based research is “a student-centered approach to learning which naturally utilizes higher order thinking, problem-solving, and information processing via questioning.” Inquiry-based research is student-directed, involves critical thinking and problem-solving, creates new knowledge, and involves open-ended questioning and basic research skills. Bringing inquiry-based research into your classroom will … read more »
Were you among the over 200,000 educators worldwide participating in the Hour of Code this year? This fabulous annual event provides information and inspiration for students of all ages to engage with coding, with no experience required. The benefits of coding and understanding computer science are well documented. Of all projected new jobs in STEM … read more »
What is maker education? In maker education, “students imagine, design, and create projects that align the content of learning with hands-on application” (Makered.org). Maker education was born from the maker movement, which believes that we are all “makers” and can be creators—not just consumers—of things. Makerspaces are specific spaces in schools, libraries, and community organizations … read more »
“Storytelling is the Oldest Form of Education” Terry Tempest Williams How do you incorporate digital storytelling into your classroom? This article written by Anna Warfield discusses the 6 Reasons You Should Be Doing Digital Storytelling With Your Students. The author discusses the benefits of digital storytelling, including integrating technology with the writing process, critical thinking skills … read more »