Bringing STEM to All Classrooms

Updated from a prior post

With the school year ending, it does not mean that learning has to stop. Throughout the summer, students and educators have time to relax and recharge, but it can also be a good opportunity to take advantage of some learning experiences. I think it is a fantastic time to dive into STEM learning, especially with having more time to get outside and explore! There are a lot of opportunities that promote engaging, hands-on activities for students and educators. Find some maker projects, ways to connect in the community and engage in place-based learning, or even participate in STEM camps or events that local organizations or schools may offer.

With a reported 3.5 million jobs requiring STEM skills by 2025, it is important to find opportunities that will help students learn about the possibilities in these fields and develop the essential skills that are in demand.

Here are three ideas to consider for the summer that might also be a great way to start the next school year!

1. DIY STEM Projects

Getting involved in STEM learning in the summer does not require many materials at all. When students and educators engage in “do-it-yourself “(DIY) STEM projects, it helps to fuel creativity and excitement in learning. The possibilities for DIY STEM projects are limitless. There are books and resources available online to explore. Dr. Jacie Maslyk shares many ideas in her blogs and books for STEM-focused learning. The benefits are that it allows students to consider different materials and problem-solve or create a design. DIY activities are great for encouraging students to find a solution to a local or global challenge and see the impact they can make when they develop their STEM skills! Projects like this will not only foster a sense of accomplishment but will encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Students can shift from simply being consumers to becoming creators and innovators!

2. Place-Based Learning

With additional time in the summer or even throughout the year, connecting students with opportunities for real-world learning in their community is essential. By volunteering or participating in place-based learning, students can connect with community members working in STEM careers, for example. These collaborations enable students to apply their knowledge in practical, real-world settings. Whether it’s working in a community organization that is focused on nature preservation, assisting with projects in the community, or taking advantage of internships and mentorship programs, students can get a glimpse into the professional world and build self-awareness of their interests in learning and future careers. We want our students to develop their global awareness, learn about the challenges being faced in the world, and then come up with solutions. Connecting with the community and engaging in place-based learning provides more authentic and real-world learning for students, which will promote student engagement and be more meaningful.

3. Virtual Programs and Online Courses

There are many tools available online for students to explore at their own pace and to find a topic of interest. Diving into programs to learn about coding and robotics, for example, offers many great benefits for students. Students can learn about programming languages, create their own software, or build robots or chatbots. With the resources available, students will develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills while also having the opportunity to boost their creativity.

Online courses and virtual programs provide flexibility, which enables students to learn at their own pace and explore topics of interest. Many of the programs and tools available offer interactive simulations, video tutorials, sample activities, and more, which help to engage students more in learning. Some sites such as Code.org, MIT, AIClub, Scratch, and Tynker provide interactive coding tutorials and projects suitable for beginners. I recommend exploring Minecraft Education and Hacking STEM to give even more choices. For some robots, check out MatataStudio products such as TaleBot Pro or Vinci Bot or check out Marty the Robot from Robotical! Interested in augmented and virtual reality, dive into CoSpaces Edu!

Code with Google is focused on closing equity gaps in computer science opportunities and offers free resources for students. For older students and educators looking for courses and more activities, websites like Khan Academy and Udemy have courses covering various STEM topics, allowing students to learn at their own pace and explore their interests.

Summer learning opportunities for STEM can offer students a transformative learning experience that will spark their curiosity for learning and cultivate STEM-focused careers. These opportunities not only enhance academic skills but also equip students with essential 21st-century competencies, such as critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability.

About the Author:

Rachelle Dené is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle is currently finishing her doctorate with a focus on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!

Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader and served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. She was named one of 30 12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021 and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.

She is the author of eight books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” and her newest book “Things I Wish […] Knew” is now available at bit.ly/thingsiwishedu.

Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or your event! Submit the Contact Form.

Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915