We live in a progressively technological society, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) is all around us. From the newest technological device to the most recent advancement in computer software engineering, STEM is a constantly growing field–and we’re confident that STEM is here to stay.
Why Use STEM Resources in the Classroom?
While using STEM resources in the K-12 classroom can be challenging, it can also be especially advantageous. For example, educators can apply STEM concepts to lessons, systems, and activities, such as student-facilitated maker spaces, science-based after-school organizations, or internships at a technology or engineering company.
Alarmingly, research has shown that only a tiny amount of high school students want to pursue a STEM-related career. However, these STEM skills are in high demand by organizations, businesses, and learning institutions because science and engineering are increasingly crucial to propel the U.S. economy forward. Many industries that we depend upon, such as the construction, auto, and vaccine development industries, rely on our growing literacy in mathematics and science.
According to Pew Research Center, employment in STEM professions has increased by 79% since 1990. However, fewer than half of U.S. schools provide computer science courses, and institutions prepare only 20% of high school graduates to take postsecondary-level courses in STEM majors.
As teachers and educational therapists, we are constantly searching for ways to maximize student interest in STEM education through all things STEM: activities, projects, resources, and more. As children arrive in classrooms today with more technological proficiency and aptitude than ever before, educators should encourage the development of these skills through STEM activities and resources.
We’ve searched far and wide to provide educators with five outstanding STEM resources to help students thrive while learning STEM. So, without further ado, here they are!
1. CK-12
CK-12 is a versatile online platform for students and educators that features tens of thousands of accessible STEM teaching tools. Since the organization’s mission is to enable all students to learn at their own pace and approach (and completely free of charge!), educators can individualize STEM resources to fit students’ needs.
CK-12 offers a virtual classroom featuring discussion forums, webinars, scientific simulations, study guides, etc. Educators can utilize the CK-12 platform to assign classwork, monitor students’ progress, and facilitate class discussions.
Additionally, a FlexBook allows educators to put together chapters from textbooks in various subjects to create differentiated, highly individualized lesson plans that adhere to state standards like NGSS and CCSS. Subjects included on this platform are mathematics (elementary principles to calculus), science, English, social studies, and college subjects translated into six languages.
2. NASA
K-12 educators can find a plethora of STEM resources materials on NASA’s website, which features lesson plans, publications, posters, webcasts, websites, apps, podcasts, image galleries, videos, and e-books to upgrade traditional science lessons. Specifically, science subjects covered by NASA include physical science, Earth science, life science, and space.
The NASA website also features math and technology learning resources, and grade levels span from kindergarten to postsecondary. NASA also provides interactive educational STEM games to help children apply, recall, and learn core STEM concepts.
Additionally, NASA allows students to participate in NASA projects and connects students to many outstanding educational opportunities and resources, including contests, internships, fellowships, exhibits, and museums.
3. National Science Foundation
An independent federal agency started by Congress in 1950, the National Science Foundation (NSF) strives to support scientific research in the United States. A comprehensive bureau that provides the most current research and recent science news, NSF is an excellent tool for educators searching for STEM lesson plan ideas.
NSF also provides funding opportunities for K-12 educators to receive grants and scholarships to participate in research opportunities. The agency’s website features a classroom resources page, including websites, multimedia tools, and lessons to supplement STEM education.
Educators can select topics like biology, astronomy, engineering, chemistry, physics, math, and other issues to create STEM learning resources that address significant STEM concepts. Students can access links to informative television programs, films, museum exhibits, and radio shows that offer supplemental materials when learning challenging or complex subjects.
4. BioInteractive
The BioInteractive website offers educators STEM learning resources and accessible professional development and learning. From case studies and videos to interactive media and data-rich activities, BioInteractive’s resources help connect students to overarching scientific ideas.
Secondary school topics covered in BioInteractive include genetics, microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology, cell biology, physiology, ecology, earth science, etc. The BioInteractive website also offers educators planning tools to create storylines and resource playlists, professional educational materials, and STEM teaching tools to deepen their scientific knowledge and subject matter expertise.
One memorable part of BioInteractive’s website is the collection of inspirational films that provide insights into scientists’ lives. Produced by exemplary storytellers, these films include the following:
- “Popped Secret: The Mysterious Origin of Corn”
- “Great Transitions: The Origin of Humans”
- “The Guide: A Biologist in Gorongosa”
- The Day the Mesozoic Died
5. STEM-Works
Sponsored by Southern Methodist University and the Department of Defense, the STEM-Works program began in February 2011 to assist STEM professionals, educators, and leaders working in their communities to expand STEM skills in our country.
STEM-Works is a sister program to Kids Ahead, which was created for middle school students. The program offers a wide array of fun STEM activities, informative articles, jobs, and other exciting opportunities for students. With compelling subjects like extreme weather, crime scene investigation, robotics, and wind energy, STEM-Works extends beyond conventional learning and helps students develop an interest in STEM fields.
Therapy Source: Your STEM Education Solution
In conclusion, STEM is an ever-evolving field that constantly propels forward in an increasingly digital world–and it’s here to stay. Fortunately, our educational therapists and teachers can help students develop skills highly valued by companies and a stronger STEM foundation by applying STEM concepts to classroom activities.
We’re always searching for ways to increase student interest in STEM education at Therapy Source. Our award-winning pediatric therapy service company connects school-based educational professionals with learning institutions to fill professional vacancies to provide children nationwide with premier STEM education. With the proper guidance and instruction, students can discover how to thrive in the classroom and achieve professional success in the future.
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