Learning by Doing: How Outdoor Play Prepares Kids for Achievement in STEM
Studies support the idea that playing outside helps kids develop “motion” vocabulary and understand physical interactions and phenomena in their environment. Offers three suggestions to help kids thrive: avoid passive observation, introduce new STEM concepts while they are engaged, support children’s informal investigations.
Conference Gives Girls Hands-On Learning Experience in STEM Fields
The article discusses the Expanding Your Horizons conference which encourages women to pursue careers in STEM-related fields. At the conference girls, in sixth through ninth grade, sign up for workshops, including practical workshops that use chemistry to create lotions.
U.S. Department of Education Launches $680,000 Challenge for Virtual and Augmented Reality Experiences
The EdSim Challenge is a competition to design next-generation educational simulations intended to strengthen technical skills. It targets a cross-section of research areas: virtual reality, video games, and educational technology. Research shows that students who participate in simulated digital learning environments had a 23 percent higher achievement rating than their peers who did not participate.
MIT-Chile Collaboration Stresses Hands-On Projects and Teamwork in STEM Education
Chilean high school students are receiving training in public speaking, experimental science, and teamwork from MIT mentors. Students spend six weeks working on STEM projects that culminates in an event at a local museum. The program serves as a great example of international STEM outreach.
4 Elements of Great STEM education
Educational leaders face the challenge of determining how best to engage young students. The article suggests that 4 methods to accomplish this goal are problem-based learning, rigorous learning, personalization of learning, and emphasis on career, technology, and life skills. Detailed discussion of each are provided.