What does STEAM learning look like in your school? STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. This educational approach integrates each of these five disciplines to promote hands-on, experiential learning. If you already appreciate the benefits of STEAM learning, the next step is to locate high-quality resources to put these ideas into action.
Today on the blog, I’m excited to share two new projects from the team at TinkRworks. Tech-A-Sketch and TinkRsynth can help elementary and middle school students engage in hands-on STEAM learning. These supplemental resources are perfect for schools integrating STEM into their curriculum this school year.
Let’s take a look at what’s possible with these STEAM learning resources!
STEAM Learning in Action
What is STEAM learning? As I mentioned earlier, STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Instead of teaching each subject in isolation, STEAM learning encourages students to apply knowledge from different areas to solve real-world problems.
For example, a STEAM project might involve designing a physical object using mathematical calculations, exploring different materials and their properties, programming a device, and perhaps creating a final product to share. This approach helps students see connections between subjects and understand how they work together in the real world.
K-8 STEAM Solution for Schools
TinkRworks is a comprehensive K-8 STEAM solution designed to turn students into creative problem-solvers through project-based learning. Educators who use TinkRworks have access to a standards-aligned curriculum, engaging hands-on project kits, and professional development, too. TinkRworks uses a web-based learning platform and coding environment so students can bring their projects to life while building essential, transferable skills. Whether you’re teaching in a classroom, makerspace, after-school program, or summer camp, TinkRworks is ready to go right out of the box.
Tech-A-Sketch for Grades 3-5
This summer, the team at TinkRworks has released two new programs for educators. Tech-A-Sketch is a hands-on project that combines a classic drawing toy with electronics and coding. It’s designed for students in grades three, four, and five. With this kit, students can assemble their own handheld drawing device, complete with a programmable LCD display, buttons, and knobs.
As students build and customize their digital artist palette, they will dive into key STEAM concepts like the science behind displays, understanding X-Y coordinates, plotting basic shapes, and even creating their own digital brushes. Students will then bring it all together to create a one-of-a-kind drawing experience that’s both educational and super creative.
TinkRsynth for Grades 6-8
TinkRsynth is a project designed for middle school students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. This project blends coding with the art of music production. Students get to create their own sound mixing board, which they program to produce, manipulate, and synthesize sounds. While working on their unique instruments, students explore the fundamentals of sound waves and learn about rhythm, chords, and melodies.
This hands-on experience also reinforces essential coding skills and gives students a deeper understanding of the physics of sound. It’s perfect for a project-based learning experience, too. Students can compose their own music and even perform solo or collaborate with classmates for an ensemble performance as they showcase their new skills.
Making STEAM Learning Happen in Your School
STEAM learning certainly offers numerous benefits for students. Blending creativity with technical skills fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Students learn to approach challenges from multiple angles, making them more adaptable and innovative thinkers. With the projects from TinkRworks, you can help students build skills they can use throughout the school year and beyond their time in the classroom.
Ready to get started with TinkRworks? Check out Tech-A-Sketch and TinkRsynth, and help your elementary and middle school students dive into STEAM learning this school year!
