San Diego Quality Criteria in STEM/STEAM Education

Component 2.4 Materials and Facilities for STEM/STEAM

Integrated Learning refers to purposeful learning experiences which help students make connections, apply learning, and build skills across subject areas through relevant problems, issues, or phenomena.

Element 2.4a Availability of Materials

Indicator

Teachers have access to a variety of high quality materials and resources which engage students in STEM/STEAM learning. An appropriate quantity of materials for equitable access is available.

Element 2.4b Use of Space

Indicator

Appropriate space is set aside for STEM/STEAM teaching, learning and exhibition to meet the needs of all students.

“California students who are globally competent are able to engage in four competencies: to investigate the world beyond their immediate environment; to recognize differing perspectives including others’ and their own; to effectively communicate ideas, in multiple languages, with diverse audiences; and to take action to improve conditions.” (CDE 2014a, 941).

Element 2.4c Equitable Access to Technology

Indicator

Sufficient, robust and reliable integration of current and emerging technologies, assistive technologies, and digital resources, with connectivity is available for all students, teachers, staff, and school leaders.

Element 2.4d Teacher Application and Use of Technology

Indicator

Teachers design student-driven learning experiences by applying, adapting and integrating technology, along with data-driven decisions, to enhance and transform the student learning experience in creative, meaningful and relevant ways. They seek to empower students towards positive contributions in the digital world. Teachers learn from and with others.

Reference International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educators and the SAMR model to expand on this element.

Element 2.4e Technical Support

Indicator

Teachers and students have access to consistent and reliable assistance, maintenance, technical training, and renewal of hardware and software resources.