Recent Blogs
Finding Partners to Help Build STEM Programs
As a public-school teacher, I find that I am always in need of help. Creating a STEM program that is as robust and engaging as the one I pilot takes [...]
The Ultimate Makerspace Checklist
The word “makerspace” is everywhere, but because of its various styles and adaptations, some teachers are still wondering what exactly a makerspace should look like. While a makerspace is whatever [...]
Maze Runner: Dash(ing) Through Obstacles
The Expert Learning Architects If you have ever scrolled through my Twitter feed, you might be under the impression that I am a pedagogical creative genius. (The funny thing is [...]
Simple Machines Camp: From Math to Science!
As a librarian, I often find some people do not think that the library could be the place to explore physics concepts - but it is! Topics like engineering, speed, [...]
Breaking Down the Buzzwords: 21st Century Skills and Design Thinking
Previously, I’ve differentiated between inquiry and project-based learning. I’ve also dug into the difference between modeling and phenomenon-based learning. In this part of Breaking Down the Buzzwords, we’ll investigate new [...]
Introducing Circuits in Your Makerspace
I am not going to lie, when I was first told about circuits in makerspaces, my first thought was “Electricity? And middle school students? I don’t think so!” It wasn't [...]
4 Easy Earth Science Projects that Rock!
I don’t know about you, but geology and earth science were never the subjects that attracted me to STEM. When I was growing up, teachers were quick to pull out [...]
STEM vs STEAM vs. What’s Next?
What Does STEM Stand For? For five years now, I have run the STEM program at my school. When originally designing the program, I chose the name STEM for accountability [...]
Inspiring Big Wonderings with Contagion Crushers
In my previous blog, I discussed the need to avoid creating silos in your curriculum, the importance of real-world learning and hands-on investigations, and the benefits of integrating STEM with [...]
Differentiation in the STEM Classroom
As any teacher will tell you, every student is different. Each individual comes with a unique culture, appearance, preference, social skills, ability level, and more. Every year we are expected [...]
Teaching from the Inside Out with Mushroom Maestros
As a 3rd grade teacher for 4 years and an elementary teacher for over 25, I was beginning to feel the pressure of “getting it all done” while keeping the [...]
700 Grant Opportunities to Fund Your STEM Classroom
Robotics, 3D printers, engineering supplies – all these items cost money. Unless your school is well-endowed, you might find yourself looking for funding opportunities elsewhere. Not sure where to look? [...]
