Creative Ways to Connect Kids to Science and Encourage STEM Learning
By 3M Sponsored Content
The pandemic has deeply impacted learning experiences for students across America . As educators and students return to school this year , they will continue to navigate these challenges as they look for ways to redefine learning . The pandemic also put a stark spotlight on inequities in the sciences and science education , especially the lack of equal access . The good thing is that this has sparked an increased awareness and a desire for change to begin addressing these issues .
With new norms of educational learning still being defined , we have a real opportunity to find creative and engaging ways to expose young and diverse thinkers to the vast world of science around them . One of the ways to do this is by connecting science to the things kids are already passionate about – sports , music , dance , art , gaming , or anything else they may be interested in .
America ’ s favorite rapping teacher , Dwayne Reed , shares creative ways educators and parents can help kids find a “ way-in ” to science that will ignite their passion for STEM learning and make science more approachable :
1 . Extend STEM Beyond the Classroom . Show kids how to apply the scientific method in their day-to-day lives and activities . As individuals , we make observations daily and ask questions – or hypothesize – based on what we observe . Parents and educators can foster an inquisitive mindset by challenging kids to explore the world around them . This creates fun and relatable learning experiences inside and outside the classroom .
2 . Connect Personal Passions to STEM Learning . When students lack confidence in a particular subject , it can feel intimidating . As a result , they can often have a hard time seeing themselves as successful in that subject or can lose interest altogether . As teachers and educators , we want to encourage our kids and show them they can be anything they want . One of the ways to do this is by connecting what they already love to something they are not as confident in . STEM is a perfect example of this . Show students how science can be applied to their other interests , including sports , music , dance , gaming , art or anything else they may be passionate about . By helping connect the dots for students , they can turn their passions into something that can benefit the world around them .
3 . Keep A Pulse on New Educational Resources . Stay updated on new resources and information that could positively impact your students . The great thing about this is that teachers and parents can both get involved . A few ways you can stay up to date are reading blogs and educational articles and looking for resources on social media . One learning resource to check out is 3M ’ s Science at Home video series . This online library of DIY science experiments uses common household items to help make STEM learning fun and accessible while showing kids they can connect science to just about anything . Teachers will also note that the step-by-step resources include national science teaching standards for easy lesson planning .
4 . Challenge Kids to Try Something New . Challenge kids to put themselves into roles they may not naturally see themselves in . Provide encouragement , resources , and confidence to get them to the next level . With a bit of creativity , you can open their eyes to a whole world of opportunities they may not be thinking about . Make STEM learning feel relatable and fun – even if it ’ s new for them . It ’ s all about reframing the way students look at the world and giving them assurance and an opportunity to explore what ’ s around them .
The importance of maintaining a stable and engaging learning experience for students remains a priority . And with just a few creative learning techniques and models , educators and parents can ensure their students are connected , actively learning and feeling encouraged both in and out of the classroom .
Photo Credit : ( c ) Wavebreakmedia / iStock via Getty Images Plus
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