Curious to see what STEAM educators are trending in the Adventures in Learning community? In part one, we take a look at five of Dr. Diane's favorite thought influencers from 2024 -- a collection offering a balanced mix of informative conversations, science and nature invitations, and STEAMspirations. (We will look at five more later this month). Check out these five episodes. What are your key takeaways? What can you use in your classroom or home? Share your thoughts below.
Meet Dr. Diane's first 5 STEAMfluencers of 2024:
Fostering Global Citizens: Innovative Early Childhood Education Strategies with Kennesaw State University: Have you ever wondered how the seeds of global citizenship are planted in the minds of our youngest learners? Kennesaw State University professors Dr. Raynice Jean-Ségur and Dr. Douglas Bell join us for an enlightening discussion on the intricate tapestry of early childhood education. They guide us through the conception of global awareness in children, from infancy to kindergarten, with six robust frameworks at the core. Together, we unpack the critical role educators play in weaving multicultural literature into the curriculum, fostering a generation of students who see themselves as integral parts of a diverse and vibrant world. Navigating the complexities of teaching environmental stewardship and respect across cultures can be a formidable task for educators, especially when met with resistance. Yet, Episode 82 tackles these challenges head-on, providing teacher candidates with actionable strategies to cultivate a reverence for nature and instill agency in young learners. Our guests offer a treasure trove of methods to embolden children to view their actions through the lens of environmental impact, while also arming them with the necessary skills to thrive in an interconnected global society.
Super Librarian Kristen Rodriguez: What happens when you blend storytelling with STEAM education? You transform learning and encourage playful discovery. In episode 111, Kristen Rodriguez, a visionary youth services librarian from NSU Florida's Alvin Sherman Library, shares how her innovative library programs inspire creativity and curiosity in young minds. Kristen shows us strategies for seamlessly integrating literature with science through playful and imaginative activities. Whether you're an educator or simply passionate about creative learning, this episode is sure to spark new ideas and excitement.
Jonathan Payne, STEAM Innovator: We unlock the secrets of using hands-on STEAM to transform education in an energizing conversation with Jonathan Payne, Lackland ISD STEAM specialist and founder of The Innovative Mind Lab. How did an insurance salesman find his true calling as a passionate STEAM educator? What are some of his unique strategies for connecting with students and nurturing their individual interests through STEAM? "We're like gardeners. You have to have that mentality. You know you want to see fruit, but you know gardening is not microwaving a plate. You know it's something that takes time, care, patience, and a certain heart to do it and to do it well." Jonathan takes us on a journey through the exciting world of STEAM education. From robotic class pets that teach coding and biology to older students designing intricate Rube Goldberg machines, these projects offer more than just fun—they're critical in equipping the next generation with essential skills for the future. Check out Episode 104.
Dr. Tyana Velasquez-Smith of Sensational Inclusion: Can play truly transform the way we learn? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Tyana Velasquez-Smith, the visionary CEO of Sensational Inclusions. Dr. Tyana shares her five non-negotiables for education and argues that play is not just a pastime but a human right essential for our emotional and psychological well-being. Learn how Sensational Inclusions is revolutionizing emergent literacy by harnessing students' special interests in sensory-friendly environments. We also delve into the indispensable roles that both teachers and parents play in enhancing the literacy journey of students. Dr. Tyana emphasizes the importance of empowering teachers with the autonomy to implement effective strategies, while also encouraging parents to advocate for holistic, play-based learning methods. We talk about the need to create an inclusive classroom dynamic where no student feels left behind. This synergy between educators and parents is pivotal for fostering a supportive and enriching educational experience.
Math + Literacy with STEAM Specialist and Early Childhood Educator Dr. Kateri Thunder: Discover how to blend math and literacy into the joy of everyday play and learning. On Episode 85, Dr. Kateri Thunder shares her incredible strategies for sparking children's innate mathematical curiosity through storytelling, play, and intentional language. From the pages of The Very Hungry Caterpillar to the adventures of Jabari Jumps, learn how you can turn any story time into an opportunity for young minds to explore mathematical concepts in a fun and engaging way. Through intentional language and fun-filled activities, discover how everyday interactions like reading and playing can ignite a lifelong love for math in young learners. Embrace the power of open-ended questions to transform your teaching practice, inspired by Eric Carle's beloved story The Very Hungry Caterpillar. We discuss how letting children's natural curiosity lead can deepen their engagement with mathematical concepts. Learn how to use concrete, representational, and abstract methods—such as cubes and number charts—to foster critical thinking and a strong mathematical identity in young learners, making every moment in the classroom a joyful journey of discovery and problem-solving. Finally, dive into the creative integration of math and literacy using multicultural children's literature, as we discuss strategies for connecting math, literacy and STEM using books like Jabari Jumps and Jabari Tries. We also explore the profound impact of unplugged coding activities and the significance of including diverse fairy tales that reflect all children's experiences.
Enter the Up Periscope Book Give Away by Dec. 9, 2024
Just in time for the holidays, enter to win an autographed copy of Jennifer Swanson's latest book, Up Periscope! How Engineer Raye Montague Revolutionized Shipbuilding Discover the hidden figure who created the first comprehensive computer program to design ships for the US Navy. Award-winning author Jennifer Swanson and acclaimed illustrator Veronica Miller Jamison celebrate a self-made engineer who worked around anyone and anything that stood in her way in this illuminating picture book biography about never giving up on your dreams. To enter, send me a message by Dec. 10, 2024, explaining why you should win this wonderful picture book and who you want it autographed for!
Sharpen Your Pencils: Deadline for the Rube Goldberg Playground Contest is Dec. 17, 2024
The Rube Goldberg Institute and Miracle Recreation Playground Contest submission deadline is fast approaching! We invite you to enter your playground design now. Pick up your pencils or start up your design program. Think simple machines, improbable engineering and most of all, interactive FUN for kids. Design and submit your ideas for a Rube Goldberg Playground and the chance to win cash prizes, social media coverage, and the opportunity to have your playground vision brought to life! For more information including how to enter CLICK HERE
Watch the video or listen to the podcast with Jennifer George! Congratulations to Lynn C., a middle school teacher in Florida, for winning a signed copy of Rube Goldberg's Big Book of Building: Make 25 Machines That Really Work! A perfect gift for the creative teacher or child in your life!
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