One of my favorite teacher training workshops focuses on the concept of biomimicry. Biomimicry (from bios, meaning life, and mimesis, meaning to imitate)is a new science that studies nature’s best ideas and then imitates these designs and processes to solve human problems. Think of biomimicry as “innovation inspired by nature.” Nature has inspired scientists and engineers in developing camouflage clothing, adhesives, solar energy, filtration systems, transportation systems, drones and beyond. During the biomimicry-based teacher training workshops, teachers are introduced to the concept of biomimicry by studying a wide array of man-made gadgets and systems and discussing how scientists were inspired by nature in designing the gadget. During a recent STEM teacher training workshop, I conducted teachers were introduced to the principles of biomimicry. We ventured outside to observe “real-world” examples of biomimicry. Upon returning to the classroom teachers studied a wide array of examples of gadgets that were inspired by nature, teachers used an assortment of mathematical and scientific tools in their analyses including incorporating digital photography. Each group was asked to construct a mind map of their discussions of biomimicry as well. Teachers were then given the engineering challenge to look to nature in designing a prototype of a gadget that would help to solve a problem that humans face. Teachers incorporated the engineering design process as they brainstormed, designed and built prototypes of gadgets and structures that were based on inspiration from nature. Teachers built solar chargers, shelters, floatation devices, lighting systems, and more. When teachers introduce their students to biomimicry concepts, as well as giving the students an engineering design challenge based on the principles of biomimicry, this is truly an authentic and “real-world” STEM-based learning experience. For additional information on biomimicry check out the Biomimicry Institute website. The following photos were taken during the biomimicry/ STEM teacher training workshop. [envira-gallery id=”1526″]
Tag: stemchat
Science and STEM Exploration Centers to Inspire and Empower Young Children
The school supplies are flying off the shelves, it’s that time of year again when parents and teachers are getting ready for the start of a new school year. If you are an early childhood educator, you are perhaps the most influential individual in the eye of a young child. As you begin to plan for the upcoming school year think about what changes you may be able to make within your classroom and even teaching practices that will provide plenty of opportunities for the young child to explore, discover, and investigate. Learning experiences that will lead to the child being inspired and empowered. Take the time to find out what each child’s interests are, and provide learning experiences that will fuel their natural curiosity and interests. With the push to incorporate more science, STEM and technology within the early childhood classroom think deeply about what science and STEM experiences you will introduce the children to. When it comes to incorporating technology within the early childhood classroom think beyond the computers and Ipads, and tool a child places in their hand to make observations, and gather more data about the world around them is considered a form of technology. Thus, incorporating mathematical tools such as rulers, measuring tapes and levels are a great way to introduce the children to tools and technology. Providing simple hand lenses and microscopes, plastic pipettes and beakers, simple household tools and tool belts are ideal for science and STEM exploration centers. Science and STEM exploration centers should allow children to use as many of their senses as possible, incorporate journaling and drawing, as well as access to children’s literature. The following video provides snippets of hands-on-minds-on science and STEM exploration centers that provide opportunities for children to truly explore and discover and make sense of the world around them. The science and STEM exploration centers are highly engaging and the concepts being learned are meaningful to the child. These type exploration centers are sure to inspire and empower the young child. For more information about the science and STEM professional staff development and interactive keynotes Dr. Diana Wehrell-Grabowski conducts worldwide contact her via the contact page. [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2vzWty0Zi8[/embedyt]
The State of STEM Report, May 2018
For the latest findings on STEM education and workforce in the United States check out The State of STEM Report: A Comprehensive View of the STEM Ecosystem, with Recommendations for Where Collaborations Should Focus Future Investments at STEM Connector.
Top STEM Toys To Introduce Kids to Coding
Just in time for Computer Science Education Week December 4th-10th, 2017 and Christmas, here’s a list of the top STEM toys that introduce and reinforce coding for toddlers to teens. The following STEM-based toys are a great choice for introducing kids of all ages to coding, as well as developing coding skills. The following toys are great for at home use, and within K-12 classrooms. For more information about incorporating STEM and tech toys into the K-12 classroom contact STEM Education Consultant, Dr. Diana Wehrell-Grabowski via the contact page on this site. Diana conducts STEM, STEAM, MakerEd, and NGSS professional staff development worldwide, year-round. Osmo ALEX Toys Future Coders Cube Stackers Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set by Learning Resources Fisher-Price Think & Learn Code-A-Pillar Dash and Dot by Wonder Workshop Ozobot Sphero WoWWee Elmoji SmartGurlz Siggy Scooter with Doll Kibo Puzzlets Primo Toys Cubetto Code Monkey Island Robot Turtles Cubelets Robot Construction for Kids Hasbro FurReal Makers Proto Max Jewelbots Code Master