STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. The end results are students who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. These are the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners of the 21st century!
We focused on a STEAM activity in December where the students had to work collaboratively in groups to construct the tallest standing structure (Christmas tree), using only gum drops and toothpicks. Not only is the activity hands on and interactive, it requires the students to think critically, use the strengths of their combined teamwork, and allows the students' creativity to shine!
The process I followed for this particular activity:
1) Gave students handouts which discussed their mission/assignment.
2) The handouts also included an organizer for students to write down their thinking, and come up with a plan as a group as to how they will be able to build it successfully.
3) Supplies are then distributed and students work in groups to build.
4) After giving the kids about 30 min or so to build their structure, we then stopped and checked out each group's work. Groups share out to discuss what they discovered and what they noticed did/ didn't work.
5) Now students use Chromebooks to actually research how to build successful structures (such as having a strong supportive base, etc).
6) After we have discussed and they have researched the topic they are then allowed to rebuild with their group.
7) The activity is closed by debriefing again with students to discuss, how it was different/ better the second time they built it, what they learned about building structures, and how working in a team was valuable.
I truly believe its such an invaluable skill to teach our students how to collaborative and work/think together. My students work so well together and have learned each other's strengths and how to utilize them in a project. I have watched my students flourish and learn so much this year thorough the power of collaboration. STEAM activities are a GREAT way to incorporate these skills into your classroom!
Collaboratively Learning,
Megan Brown
No comments:
Post a Comment