Developing critical thinking skills via exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (stem) concepts aug 2011

Developing Critical Thinking Skills via Exploring Science, Technology, and Engineering (STEM) Concepts

A teacher training workshop designed and conducted by Diana Wehrell-Grabowski, Ph.D.

http://www.drdianateachertraining.com

Developing Critical Thinking Skills via Exploring STEM Concepts

This was the first investigation of a 3 day training. Teachers marked off a section of a leaf and observed it

using eye loupes of varying magnifications.

Developing observational skills is a fundamental tool in STEM education practices.


Teachers then made observations of the leaf section via a microscope.

All observations and drawing were recorded in their journals.


Teachers explored the characteristics of super absorbing polymers. Here

they are measuring and obtaining the mass of growing cubes and spheres.


Teachers conducted investigations with super absorbing polymers to observe how these super absorbing polymers absorb liquids.


Teachers conducted investigations with super absorbing polymers including

Growing Spheres and Cubes.


Teachers conducted investigations with Grow Creatures. Grow creatures are made up of

super absorbing polymers.


Teachers collected and recorded data relative to the changes made in the Grow Creatures throughout

the 3 days of training.


Teachers collected recorded and graphed data relative to the changes made in the Grow Creatures throughout

the 3 days of training.


Teachers explored shapes and mathematical patterns in nature and in man-made objects. Here teachers are observing the Fibonacci Sequence.


Teachers analyzed examples of biomimicry. Biomimicry is the science of examining nature its models, systems, and processes and emulating

them in order to solve human problems.


Teachers conducted investigations with nano-technology materials.


Teachers studied parachute designs then designed, constructed, and tested

their own parachute designs.


Teachers designed, constructed, and tested parachutes. Re-designing

parachutes as needed.


Teachers built structures with various types of wood blocks. Levels were used during construction. Teachers also tested structures for stability.


Teachers built structures with various types of wood blocks. Levels were used during construction. Teachers also tested structures for stability.


Teachers studied geodesic dome structures. Then built geodesic domes out of a variety of materials.

Domes can be tested for weight load and durability under various natural conditions.


Teachers were given one index card. They were told they had to form the card (bridge) so that it

could hold the maximum weight load.


Teachers were introduced to literature that makes connections to STEM concepts. Here a teacher is reading from the book Iggy Peck The Architect.

Visit http://www.drdianateachertraining.com for more info.

http://www.drdianateachertraining.com/

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Developing critical thinking skills via exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (stem) concepts aug 2011