Academic Coach Dana Jones states , “ We are trying to impact teacher practices and planning , moving from complacency to action . STEAM is a philosophy …. not an acronym . Professional learning is not about teaching Science , Technology , Engineering , Art , and Mathematics ; it is about changing a mindset .”
Second graders create Abstract Expressionist style artwork with primary colors while learning to joystick and code a Sphero robot .
Kindergarten teacher Ashley Brooks uses pendulum painting inspired by the style of Jackson Pollock to teach students about force and motion .
Making the Transition
In addition , the well-established STEM program at Mableton included a Learning Garden which is also making the transition from STEM to STEAM . When you walk into the garden at any given time you will see students planting or flying drones to gather data , creating choreography that demonstrates how a butterfly flutters from plant to plant , or using math data on a peg board to analyze plant growth . In an effort to integrate more art modalities , the STEAM lab teacher has created movement pavers throughout the garden so students can express themselves with a variety of high and low level movements . A future project includes an art installation inspired by Georgia ’ s own Howard Finster designed and created by students and teachers .
STEAM is a philosophy …. not an acronym . Professional learning is not about teaching Science , Technology , Engineering , Art , and Mathematics ; it is about changing a mindset .
- Dana Jones , Mableton Elementary
STEAMed Magazine
8
January 2017 Edition