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What is it?
What is it?
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education entails authentic learning experiences for all students with an interdisciplinary and applied approach where all fields connect in complex relationships. In today’s economy, problems are not solved in isolation of a specific discipline, but are solved through multiple approaches and perspectives. A strong STEM educational foundation helps to prepare our students for tomorrow’s world by emphasizing collaborative, innovative, quantitative and logical analysis rooted in a solid understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
How we do it:
How we do it:
McHarg Elementary has a Tinker Tank with a dedicated teacher for supporting teachers and students in integrating STEM concepts with core curriculum as much as possible. This teacher also works closely with classroom teachers to implement Project Lead the Way-Launch Modules.
Project Lead the Way(PLTW)-Launch is an innovative project-based learning program that incorporates science, technology, engineering, and math. PLTW empowers students to develop and apply transportable skills (communication, creative and critical thinking, citizenship, collaboration) by exploring real world challenges in exciting and engaging ways. PLTW offers pathways of study in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. Students learn technical skills while they practice the transportable skills. Teachers facilitate modules that consist of activities, a project and a problem to solve. This process allows students to gain knowledge and skills they will need to solve a real world problem.
During weekly Tinker Tank time, students given challenges to solve with partners or in small groups that encourage them to practice:
Communication- sending a message with kind words, catching a message with your brain and your heart.
Cooperation- working together
Creativity- creating something using your imagination
Citizenship- an Exceptional Bobcat who Safe, Respectful and Peaceful
Critical Thinking - asking good questions and solving problems
Collaboration - taking ALL the ideas and merging them together
How you can help!
How you can help!
Encourage your child to solve problems as they come up in real life. Ask them how they would solve certain problems such as spilled milk. Should you use a broom or a mop? Encourage them to try and assure them that a failed attempt is just a learning experience. It is ok to try and try again. Be slow to help to encourage independence in problem solving each day such as packing and unpacking backpacks, tying shoes, organizing toys, etc.
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