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

My Contact Info

Annabella KrautSTEM TeacherTarbut V’Torah Community Day Schoolakraut@tarbut.com