STEAM Changing Elementary Classrooms

[williamjackson]

STEAM Changing Elementary Classrooms

STEAM
Science Technology Engineering Arts Mathematics
is a working solution to the nations need to continue to be a global competitor.
The curriculum’s of elementary schools are changing to meet the needs of integrating
cross-curricular educational initiatives that involve students performing critical thinking
and higher order thinking skills.

Student’s must learn the skills of problem solving, understand the importance of innovation
with the use of technology, have the ability to work together collaboratively and even
independently to create, design, develop and integrate hands on learning
that is project based. Minority students need to realize that in order to participate in future
discoveries and exploration of new windows of opportunity for learning and growth, minority
students must be a part of a STEAM educational curriculum.

Even President Obama has stated his understanding in the importance of STEAM education,
stating “One of the things that I’ve been focused on as President is how we create an all
hands on deck approach to science, technology, engineering, and math”

The vision that I have for my students in engineering and technology class is that students
obtain the necessary skill sets to set their imaginations on fire. To unleash and release
their passions to create and design using diverse materials, not just relying on technology,
but allowing their artistic abilities to emerge. STEAM fields if guided correctly create educational
opportunities that allow for project-based, hands-on and build a love of lifelong learning in
students.

Assisting my students to become globally aware of the tremendous opportunities that STEAM
careers can provide. Elementary education is the foundation that helps students build on
new learning through classroom interaction. My role is not just as a teacher, but a facilitator
that guides learning, allowing learning opportunities to take hold and manifesting
new ideas and concepts in the minds of my students.

Each student learning is of a different modality, so the use of science technology, engineering,
arts, and even mathematics encourages a variety of cognitive skills that push the brain
out of its proverbial box and comfort zone, creating new lines of thought and the expansion
of the imagination.

I want my students to understand the value that exposure to STEAM can be for them in their
future educational decisions. There are technological advances that will engage students in
hands on learning, promoting critical thinking skills and enable higher order thinking and reasoning.

Pictured are three fifth grade students that have excelled in Engineering class, their accomplishments
can be tried by performance on the interactive game:
“Build The Bridge” try and complete all
25 levels as these students have done.
Web Site: http://www.coolmath-games.com/0-build-the-bridge/
Pictured:
William Jackson (Engineering/Technology Teacher),
Eric Cooper, Nikeriyah Daniels, Larry Green
Mrs. Bowman (Teacher)
Andrew Robinson Elementary School
Duval County Public Schools