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To create environments and experiences that are conducive to helping kids build design thinking skills, there are a few key areas that educators should focus on. Since a K–12 makerspace, for example, is a notably open-ended environment, combining play-based exploration with design thinking could be effective, especially when compared to traditional instruction.
When students are ready to transition from block to text coding languages with micro:bit, MicroPython has helpful hints and troubleshooting tips to guide them. Use the References and API to find out everything micro:bit can do, then use the Error Highlighter to fix mistakes. Finally, find out how well the code works using one of two micro:bit simulators.
One of the best things about school makerspaces is that so many different events can foster productive learning experiences. Since maker learning is so closely connected to 21st century development, MakerEd activities and exploration remain popular with both students and teachers. So, if you are looking to start a makerspace in your school, what are key things to know?
For homeschooling parents, EdTech may seem out of reach. Whether it’s too expensive or too complex, some of the most popular EdTech isn’t suited for homeschoolers. However, we’ve compiled a list of the best EdTech tools that work perfectly in a home classroom. These solutions are affordable and approachable, with curriculum that parents can easily integrate.
These days, not only can instructors utilize robotics tools to teach students coding and computational thinking skills, a lot of them have an engineering element within them as well. We think it’s great that educators and children can combine these two key areas of STEM by first building their robot (like any of these five prime examples) and then programming
While educators won’t necessarily need official curricula or detailed project guides in makerspaces, these suggestions, however, are great examples of unique maker supplies, including different types of 3D printers, coding kits, electronics tools, and design equipment. So, we’re excited to walk through some less common makerspace tools for creating high-quality learning.
Many robotics tools also have virtual options, which help allow students to continue learning and programming while they’re at home or perhaps after school. In fact, many of those platforms often help improve accessibility of technology by removing the need for a physical robot, increasing equity in multiple ways. So, read on for our recommendations for virtual CS tools.
There are so many classroom robots that teachers could access and share with students—even those in the elementary grades. Whether they’ve tried coding in kindergarten or they’re just getting started, these are some of the top elementary robotics kits to consider for your classroom. From the Dash Robot to the Finch 2.0 and the Marty V2, here’s why we like
Earth Day is the perfect holiday to apply the concepts of STEAM education and project-based learning. After all, the central goal of each opportunity is for your students to apply creative and innovative thinking while working to solve real-world community problems. Plus, Earth Day classroom activities can help all educators highlight the critical importance of going green.
Providing our teachers support involves different approaches for different situations. As teachers face novel challenges from in-person learning, new technologies, and more, it is essential to give them the tangible help they need to thrive. Self-care, social-emotional strategies, collaboration, and material resources can all help to alleviate teacher burnout.