Chris Anderson & Ben Owens
Aug 7, 2020
By allowing student interests to guide projects, teachers can open up the world of STEM to learners who have previously been sidelined.
The current approach to STEM education in the United States is often too exclusionary and rigid, failing to engage a diverse range of students. By focusing on student interests and real-world problem-solving, educators can create a more inclusive and engaging STEM experience. This approach emphasizes empathy, allowing students to co-design their learning and tackle projects that matter to them, thus fostering a deeper connection to STEM subjects.
Examples of this method in action include initiatives like coding and flying drones remotely, using citizen-science tools like iNaturalist, and providing "STEM in a Bag" kits for hands-on learning at home. These strategies show that by integrating technology and real-world applications, and by offering personalized support, educators can make STEM more accessible and inspiring for all students. This shift not only enhances learning outcomes but also prepares students to solve complex, interdisciplinary problems in the future.