April 19, 2024

Preschool STEM Lab | Field Reports

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. Science programs and activities are a great way to capture their interest and encourage the development of early literacy skills. Many science activities and materials are easy to incorporate into library programs; you may find that you’re already including elements that increase STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) knowledge, for example, talking about color mixing or identifying and playing with shapes.

SLJ Reviews LEGO WeDo 2.0

The second-gen robotics system teaches STEM concepts to elementary students.

DNA Play | Touch and Go

While genetics is a topic generally taught in secondary schools, an app from Avokiddo introduces the concept of DNA, and mutability, to a younger audience.

Real-World STEM: a Library Bio Lab and a Sixth-Grade Code Curriculum

A Brooklyn middle school teacher who built a computer science class from scratch and a California public librarian who created a library bio lab shared the stage at the Lead the Change session “STEM in the Real World.”

LittleBits Announces STEAM Student Set at SXSWEdu

LittleBits has launched the STEAM Student Set, the first version of the popular electronic building blocks geared for the education market.

Making, With a Rube Goldberg Twist

Building contraptions inspired by the inventor and cartoonist teaches students about physics, problem-solving, and cause and effect.

Lessons from New Jersey’s Annual Makers Day

Here’s how a tiny, can-do team from Piscataway, NJ started an annual tradition celebrating maker culture statewide—and how you can too.

Supporting Students with STEM Programming at the Library | Tech Tidbits

High school teacher librarian Phil Goerner shares tips for implementing STEM programming at the library, including partnering with local maker spaces, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

Charged! From Atoms to Electricity | Touch and Go

Today’s app reviews cover introductions to foundational science topics studied at one point during every student’s career.

Lulzbot 3-D Printer Giveaway

Some lucky classrooms and libraries will receive 3-D printers in a giveaway sponsored by Aleph Objects, in conjunction with the White House Science Fair.