When we talk about achievement gaps in education, we’re usually referring to measurable variance in achievements among students from different but often inherent groups. These include gaps in grades, attendance, and even soft skills development, and how not having truly equitable opportunities is affecting them. Moving forward, preventing and shrinking said gaps is key.
What started simply as competitions among lifelong gamers has ballooned to this billion-dollar industry with professional video game players squaring off in tournaments around the world, students earning scholarships to play in college, and learning how to make money. Esports has even permeated high schools and it’s providing brand-new opportunities for development.
Students in Pre–K, kindergarten, and up to first or second grade could use the Bee-Bot screen-free or mix in digital coding once they’re ready for new challenges. It’s simple coding system features directional buttons, allowing younger children to explore programming right on their classroom floors as they experience age-appropriate STEAM adventures in early education.
If you mostly focus on introducing elementary school students to MakerEd, it could potentially involve a much more simplistic start. Then, once they’re into middle school, children can start to create their own valuable MakerEd experiences. And, by the time they transition to high school and more fully grasp the essence of making, it’s up to them to impact their communities.
The highly interactive Dash Robot simulator from Wonder Workshop is very easy to access through their Class Connect platform and it enables kids to explore coding opportunities from anywhere. Perfect for summertime or as part of afterschool enrichment, this 3D environment provides students with virtual challenges and engaging STEM puzzles for robot-free coding.
Similar in both appearance and functionality to the original Root Robot, the Root rt0 allows educators to deliver hands-on STEAM experiences that are practical and relevant. And, although they do look similar, there are several key differences teachers should know. Once you are up to speed, however, it’s a fantastic addition to coding lessons throughout the K–12 grades.
The appeal of esports in education is not declining in all likelihood. Beyond the opportunities esports participation creates for students, they also have new chances to compete, experience being part of a team, and even work on developing genuine career skills. They can also develop soft skills while competing, which commonly accelerates social-emotional development.
The line of LulzBot 3D printers are some of the most affordable 3D printers for CTE and STEM learning largely because they don’t sacrifice any of that necessary power and precision students need. Check out this recording of our webinar with the LulzBot team as we partnered with their executives to dive into the uses and benefits of these machines in STEAM education.
With SEL in the classroom, ensuring that every student feels heard, valued, respected, and advocated for are each among the biggest drivers as we all aim to collectively increase equity in education. When teachers meet these conditions, kids often feel more comfortable in their learning environments, which can spark added achievement when their emotional state is strong.
KidCitizen is an online resource that students can use to watch informative videos and episodes about political events, news, and also history. It helps them become more informed and interested in crucial political happenings as well as helping to spark ideas for how they can share their voices. Keep reading to learn more about using KidCitizen in the classroom.
