Nowadays, STEM-based education has become popular among most schools worldwide as it focuses on multiple aspects of knowledge development. To be precise, unlike usual teaching, it also involves a focus on combining science with technology, including the introduction of concepts related to engineering and mathematics.
One of the reasons why schools are adopting this form of learning is because it is based on the application of concepts related to various backgrounds (as explained above) in the workplace. In other words, children get training for their future careers in these fields -- fascinating, isn’t it?
Importantly, with these initiatives, girls and underrepresented minorities can pursue their dreams in these areas.
Interestingly, even some research studies indicate that early exposure to the concepts related to STEM might help children get more involved in the fields.
Education can become more interesting and captivating when science, technology along with the ingredients of engineering and mathematics are mixed with the latest technologies like an online platform. Such type of tool is also referred to as STEM-based eLearning.
One may wonder what exactly is this combination involving digital instruction mode. To those not aware of this tech-infused teaching, it mixes the unique facets of STEM with the benefits that an eLearning platform provides, making it a complete solution.
One of the major perks can be allowing the children to carry out laboratory experiments in the virtual space -- these practicals can be based on chemistry topics which may be hazardous when done in real time.
Another major advantage can be students can learn at their own pace, understanding every little piece of information provided in the learning material with the use of multimedia and other visuals -- this helps to comprehend the tough details deeply.
We shall discuss more about this form of learning courseware in the subsequent sections.
With a virtual platform, it becomes possible to fuel creative thinking and generate the acumen to see a problem from different angles in students. Let us analyze the varied ways used in the online medium that can make this possible.
Cultivating a Growth Mindset: This tech-driven platform can enkindle the curiosity among the children to explore a topic in multiple ways. Reason: they are able to understand a concept, and then the eagerness to know about it arises.
For example: when kids learn about light, then they start thinking about how properties of light can be observed and understood in daily life.
Another instance can be kids can learn to design a small machine without actually having to work with any heavy parts of the machine but understanding how exactly different parts of the machine can be assembled together.
Learning from Failures: STEM eLearning encourages students to embrace mistakes -- not run away from them. Additionally, it pushes them to see these failures as learning chances. Of course, learning persistence and resilience have to be there in them to succeed. Such type of crucial chance-taking in the virtual world assists them to understand through trial and error methodologies.
For example: the online platform can provide certain clues to program a robot to perform some task. Students may get stuck but can refine their codes using the further multiple hints -- thus, they won't get bogged down by failed attempts.
Incorporating Authentic Scenarios: STEM-based eLearning can integrate real-life situations that make the absorption of information much easier for children. Also, since it would be more relevant to the topics with examples, this would aid students in comprehending complex concepts that may look difficult at first sight.
Plus, when the virtual platform simulates everyday challenges (application of learned ideas in the real world), it automatically engenders the ability to solve problems using their imagination -- a must for solving intricate obstacles.
Imagine they have been assigned a task by the tool, wherein young learners must use their thinking abilities to come up with answers for tough science challenges or maybe reasoning issues using simulations. Won't these types of quests assist them in going beyond their usual skills?
Application-oriented Learning: eLearning involving STEM is well known for creating a pathway to connect theory (what is learned) to practical scenarios (how they use the knowledge in the real world). And, guess what, this format prepares the students to deal with everyday hurdles -- sounds interesting, isn't it? Simply put, this form of approach strengthens creativity; their comprehension of abstract concepts, and how to put them into practice.
Creative Teaching Methodologies: Gamification and simulations are used to ensure that students' engagement level is high. Both elements make the information soaking enjoyable for children -- they show interest as games are involved.
In addition, the introduction of some kind of token of appreciation showcasing their achievements would help, and this can be badges, rewards, and various forms of challenges -- further helping to motivate learners’ innovative skills. This also plays a big role in jointly teaming with others to solve problems.
For example, the platform can present a game such as a virtual treasure hunt involving geometrical concepts. This way students will relish learning math topics as they would feel they are playing games rather than going into rote memorization mode or seeing it as a tough task.
Interactive Interface for Knowledge Retention: Besides these, the tool can also consist of virtual labs that are interactive in nature; providing hands-on experience for novice academics. The result: it will aid immensely in bridging any kind of knowledge gap that exists -- in the sense of what they learn theoretically and put them into practice.
Also, getting acquainted with real-world applications (through the STEM eLearning platform) of science concepts will play a major part in fortifying comprehension and the ability to retain what's learned.
Conclusion
STEM-based virtual courseware can help immensely in building the imaginative skills of the students as they get hands-on practice and are pushed to explore and learn more.
If you as a school/institute or university want to create such an eLearning platform with multiple features, you can approach the pro in the business -- VK Creative Learning.