Wired for STEM

Join us for a conversation with Amber MacDonald where she discusses role in engineering education, the transition to teaching engineering, and how she creatively delivers problem-based learning. In this episode, Amber shares how she started her schools' engineering program, how she utilizes local resources, and how she forms and activates community partnerships. Listen and discover the effort and creativity Amber brings to her classroom. You can find more from Amber on her Instragram channel @msambermacdonaldTakeawaysHow to develop STEAM activities on a shoestringProblem-based learning adviceLeveraging the communityChapters00:00 Introduction to Amber and Her Role in Engineering Education08:31 Utilizing Local Resources and Sustainable Engineering Education16:23 Partnerships and Collaborations for Enrichment Programs21:28 Evolution of the Program and Future Directions

Wendie Turner, a media technology specialist, shares her journey of bringing hands-on learning and creativity to the classroom. From STEM bins to maker spaces, she emphasizes the importance of community support and resource management. Wendie's approach to balancing creativity with standards, creating an engaging learning environment, promoting inclusivity and collaboration, and envisioning the future of learning labs and maker spaces provides valuable insights for educators. Key success factors include organization, trying new things, and having fun with the students.Chapters00:00 Setting the Stage to Engage with Wendie Turner07:13 A Week in the Life of a Media Technology Specialist16:19 Creating an Engaging Learning Environment22:03 The Future of Learning Labs and Maker Spaces

Today's conversation delves into the topic of teaching artificial intelligence (AI) to kids, covering foundational concepts, tools, and applications. It explores the importance of understanding AI technology, ethical considerations, and the future of AI in education. The guest, Jessie Jiang, provides valuable insights and resources for educators and parents interested in AI education for kids.TakeawaysAI Education for KidsTeaching AI ConceptsAI Tools for EducationReview of ethical considerations

In this conversation, Jessica Priem discusses the keys to starting a STEM program from the ground up. She highlights the significance of passion in education, the necessity of clear budget communication, and the importance of allowing for failure when trying innovative approaches. She also emphasizes that success is not solely dependent on budget but on the willingness to experiment and learn from failures.Key takeaways:If you're passionate, it doesn't necessarily matter what your budget is.Communicating budgets and getting alignment is really important to avoid failure.Allow for failure; it's part of the innovation process. Fail fast to learn quickly and improve.Creating a culture of experimentation leads to growth.Teachers should be encouraged to try new things.Innovation in education requires a supportive environment.Success is not guaranteed on the first attempt.Passion drives success more than financial resources.

In this episode of Wired for STEM, Tim Conlin and Dr. Amy Esbee discuss the transformative power of play and the role of failure in enhancing STEM learning. Dr. Amy shares her journey as an educator and advocate for play-based learning, emphasizing the importance of mistakes in the learning process. They explore how students respond to failure, the significance of scaffolding in education, and the necessity of creating a safe space for exploration. The conversation also touches on the long-term impact of STEM education on fostering creativity and critical thinking in the face of evolving technologies like AI. Dr. Amy offers practical advice for parents and educators on supporting children's learning through play and iteration.Key takeawaysPlay and exploration are essential for critical thinking skills.Failure is foundational to the learning process.Students often fear failure due to societal stigma.Creating a safe space for mistakes encourages learning.Younger students are often more willing to embrace failure.STEM education should focus on iterations rather than just correct answers.Play is a structured way to build important skills.Resources for STEM learning can be simple and accessible.Parents should allow children to play independently.Creativity is crucial in the age of AI.00:00 Introduction to the Power of Play in STEM03:13 The Role of Failure in Learning10:27 Student Responses to Failure14:30 The Importance of Play in STEM Learning21:28 Coaching Educators on Play and Learning26:06 Long-term Impact of STEM Education30:37 Final Thoughts on Parenting and Teaching

In this inaugural episode of Wired for STEM, host Tim Conlin talks with makerspace expert Sarah Margalus to explore the concept of makerspaces, their impact on education, and the integration of arts into STEM learning. They discuss the inclusivity of makerspaces, the importance of community engagement, and practical advice for educators looking to establish these innovative learning environments. The conversation highlights the future of makerspaces, including the role of emerging technologies like AI, and shares inspiring stories of student success and creativity.Kay takeaways include: Makerspaces are versatile environments for hands-on learning.They can be tailored to meet the needs of different communities.Inclusivity is crucial; all students can benefit from makerspaces.The integration of arts enhances STEM education (STEAM).Safety and sustainability are key in designing makerspaces.Community partnerships can enrich the makerspace experience.Funding can come from various sources, including grants and local organizations.Teachers play a vital role in aligning makerspaces with curriculum standards.Emerging technologies will shape the future of makerspaces.Struggle in learning can lead to significant breakthroughs.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Makerspaces02:05 Defining Makerspaces and Their Purpose03:26 Impact on Student Learning and Engagement05:04 Inclusivity in Makerspaces07:07 Engaging Young Learners09:13 Overcoming Challenges in Makerspaces11:21 Integrating Arts into STEM Education17:21 Designing Effective Makerspaces21:16 Aligning Makerspaces with Educational Standards22:56 Leveraging Community Support25:14 Funding and Resources for Makerspaces26:51 The Future of Makerspaces28:31 Key Takeaways for Starting a Makerspace31:04 Celebrating Student Success in Makerspaces

Wired for STEM is the grassroots podcast that delivers practical information, inspiration, and perspective. Join us and listen in as we discuss meaningful STEAM topics with educators, experts, and other industry leaders. If you are looking to broaden your knowledge, get some inspiration, or just up your STEAM game, welcome!