The STEM Spacehttps://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/Sun, 05 Apr 2026 14:46:48 +0000enSite-Server v@build.version@ (http://www.squarespace.com)Vivify STEMnoAll content is copyright by Vivify, LLCepisodicTwo engineers turned educators discuss resources, tips, and current events within the scope of STEM education.

]]> Two engineers turned educators discuss resources, tips, and current events within the scope of STEM education. Two engineers turned educators discuss resources, tips, and current events within the scope of STEM education.info@vivifystem.comVivify STEM206. How to Turn Off Your Selective AttentionClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 27 Mar 2026 10:30:40 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2026/206/selective-attention54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:69c2c7b004047c3429c9f511Show Summary:

What if turning off your selective attention could actually make you more creative? In this episode of The STEM Space, we explore how the brain filters information—and why loosening that filter might be the secret to innovation.

You’ll also meet Ellen Swallow Richards, the chemist, environmental scientist, and sanitary engineer who transformed public health by revealing the hidden dangers in everyday water. Plus, we highlight several accidental scientific discoveries that changed the world in unexpected ways.

Don’t forget to grab the free lesson that goes along with this week’s STEMist spotlight, and stick around for the latest STEM news from around the world!

STEMist SPOTLIGHT: Ellen Swallow Richards (1842-1911) was an American chemist and a pioneer in environmental science and public health. Ellen became the first woman admitted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she studied chemistry and later worked as a researcher. Richards is best known for her work testing water quality and identifying pollution in drinking water, helping to establish modern sanitation and environmental safety standards. She also founded the field of home economics, applying science to everyday life, including nutrition and hygiene. Her work improved public health and changed how communities think about clean water and healthy living.

As always, we have a free student activity that goes with our featured STEMist that you can find in our STEM Explorer Library using the image to the left or the link below (listed in under Vivify STEM Lessons).

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48. What Is In Our Air?

205. Can You See Stuff in Your Head?

36. Are You A Visualizer?

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FREE! - Featured STEMist Lesson: Ellen Swallow Richards

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Publications by Ellen Swallow Richards

YouTube: Selective Attention Test from Daniel Simons and Christopher Chabris

That Fatigue You Feel Might Just Boost Your Creativity | Psychology Today

In STEM News

Why Mosquitoes Always Find You -Scientists from Georgia Institute of Technology and Massachusetts Institute of Technology discovered that mosquitoes don’t follow each other—instead, they independently respond to the same cues, especially carbon dioxide from breath and dark visual targets like clothing. Using 3D tracking and millions of data points, researchers found that the combination of CO₂ and dark colors is what most strongly attracts mosquitoes, helping explain their behavior and offering new ideas for more effective mosquito control. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020247.htm

How Beavers Are Fighting Climate Change - Scientists found that beavers can transform rivers into powerful carbon-storing systems by building dams that create wetlands and trap carbon-rich materials. Over time, these beaver-shaped environments can store significantly more carbon than normal streams—making them a surprising and natural ally in reducing climate change. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020245.htm

Keep Your Eyes Open - A study from Shanghai Jiao Tong University found that closing your eyes in noisy environments can actually make it harder to hear faint sounds. Researchers discovered that visual input, especially images or videos related to the sound, helps the brain focus, while closing the eyes causes over-filtering that can block out important sounds. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260320073819.htm

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]]>Vivify STEMHow Ignoring the “Obvious” Leads to BreakthroughsWhat if turning off your selective attention could actually make you more creative? In this episode of The STEM Space, we explore how the brain filters information—and why loosening that filter might be the secret to innovation. You’ll also meet Ellen Swallow Richards, the chemist, environmental scientist, and sanitary engineer who transformed public health by revealing the hidden dangers in everyday water. Plus, we highlight several accidental scientific discoveries that changed the world in unexpected ways. Don’t forget to grab the free lesson that goes along with this week’s STEMist spotlight, and stick around for the latest STEM news from around the world! STEMist SPOTLIGHT: Ellen Swallow Richards (1842-1911) was an American chemist and a pioneer in environmental science and public health. Ellen became the first woman admitted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she studied chemistry and later worked as a researcher. Richards is best known for her work testing water quality and identifying pollution in drinking water, helping to establish modern sanitation and environmental safety standards. She also founded the field of home economics, applying science to everyday life, including nutrition and hygiene. Her work improved public health and changed how communities think about clean water and healthy living. As always, we have a free student activity that goes with our featured STEMist that you can find in our STEM Explorer Library using the image to the left or the link below (listed in under Vivify STEM Lessons).false00:37:592206How to Turn Off Your Selective AttentionfullHow to Turn Off Your Selective Attentioninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips205. Can You See Stuff In Your Head?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 20 Mar 2026 10:30:17 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2026/205/can-you-see-stuff-in-your-head54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:69badff0a88c9e54ad92bbfdShow Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, we explore the fascinating world of the mind’s eye. Some people can picture vivid images in their minds, while others see nothing at all—so where do you fall on the imagination spectrum? We’ll dive into the science of visual perception while learning about modern neuroscientist Margaret Livingstone and her work uncovering how the brain processes visual information. Plus, grab your free classroom lesson inspired by this research and stay tuned for the latest top feats of STEM in the news.

STEMist SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Margaret Livingstone has spent her career uncovering how the brain turns light into meaning, showing that what feels effortless - recognizing color, motion, faces, and form - is actually the work of specialized pathways working together behind the scenes. Drawn to both science and art from a young age, she earned her Ph.D. in neurobiology at Harvard and went on to map how different parts of the visual system process information. Her research revealed why certain artworks seem to glow or move and how artists have long tapped into the brain’s visual circuitry, insights she later shared in Vision and Art: The Biology of Seeing. Her work has shaped fields from neuroscience and psychology to art, display technology, and virtual reality, reminding us that while our eyes capture the world, it’s the brain that creates what we see.

Links from the Show:

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16. Everything You Know About Learning Styles Is Wrong

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FREE! - Featured STEMist Lesson: Dr. Margaret Livingstone

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Vision and Art by Margaret S. Livingstone

The Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire at Aphantasia Network

In STEM News

What Do Mummies Smell Like? The Answer Is Revealing Ancient Secrets - Scientists at the University of Bristol discovered that the distinctive scent of Egyptian mummies comes from chemicals left behind by embalming ingredients such as oils, beeswax, plant resins, and bitumen. By analyzing tiny samples of air around mummy fragments, researchers identified dozens of chemical compounds that reveal how mummification techniques evolved and became more sophisticated over more than 2,000 years. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225153.htm

New “Jerk” Signal Could Warn of Volcano Eruptions Hours in Advance - Scientists from the Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris and the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences developed a method called the “Jerk” detector that identifies tiny ground movements caused by magma rising underground. Tested for ten years at the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, the system successfully predicted **92% of eruptions—sometimes up to eight hours in advance—**offering a promising new tool for early volcanic warning systems. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315004411.htm

Smart Underwear Reveals the Truth About Farts - Scientists at the University of Maryland created “Smart Underwear,” a wearable sensor that measures hydrogen in intestinal gas to track how often people pass gas. Early results show people may fart about **32 times per day on average—more than twice previous estimates—**while the technology could help researchers better understand gut microbes and digestive health. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260314030516.htm

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]]>Vivify STEMExploring how the brain creates — or doesn’t create — the images we see in our mind.In this episode of The STEM Space, we explore the fascinating world of the mind’s eye. Some people can picture vivid images in their minds, while others see nothing at all—so where do you fall on the imagination spectrum? We’ll dive into the science of visual perception while learning about modern neuroscientist Margaret Livingstone and her work uncovering how the brain processes visual information. Plus, grab your free classroom lesson inspired by this research and stay tuned for the latest top feats of STEM in the news. STEMist SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Margaret Livingstone has spent her career uncovering how the brain turns light into meaning, showing that what feels effortless - recognizing color, motion, faces, and form - is actually the work of specialized pathways working together behind the scenes. Drawn to both science and art from a young age, she earned her Ph.D. in neurobiology at Harvard and went on to map how different parts of the visual system process information. Her research revealed why certain artworks seem to glow or move and how artists have long tapped into the brain’s visual circuitry, insights she later shared in Vision and Art: The Biology of Seeing. Her work has shaped fields from neuroscience and psychology to art, display technology, and virtual reality, reminding us that while our eyes capture the world, it’s the brain that creates what we see.false00:30:202205Can You See Stuff In Your Head?fullCan You See Stuff In Your Head?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips204. What Makes a Great Inventor?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 06 Mar 2026 11:30:17 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2026/204/what-makes-a-great-inventor54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:69a73cc77c22850c20280e36Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire introduces us to the fascinating inventor and engineer, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, who is best known for creating the super soaker water gun. However, that is the least of his accomplishments. Claire and Natasha follow with a discussion on what makes a great engineer and the difference between engineers and inventors… if there is a difference! STEMist storytime, a debate on important engineering skills, and more feats of STEM in the news are in store for you, dear listeners. Tune in to hear what it is all about and don’t forget to grab the free lesson to go with the STEMist Highlight in our STEM Explorer library.

ENGINEER SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Lonnie Johnson (b. 1949) is an American inventor and engineer whose curiosity started early. Growing up in Alabama, he loved taking things apart and even built a working robot in high school, winning a statewide science fair as the only Black student competing. Johnson went on to earn engineering degrees and worked for the U.S. Air Force and NASA, contributing to major missions like Galileo’s exploration of Jupiter.

While experimenting at home in the 1980s, he accidentally created a powerful water stream that sparked an idea. After refining the design, he invented the Super Soaker, one of the best‑selling toys of all time. Dr. Johnson used its success to fund research in advanced batteries and clean energy through his own company. With more than 100 patents, he continues to innovate and inspire young engineers today.

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178. Getting Kids to Think

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In STEM News

Boiling Space Oceans: A study in Nature Astronomy suggests that some icy moons, including Enceladus, may have underground oceans that can begin to boil as their ice shells thin.

Light Control: Scientists at NYU have developed a new way to control how crystals form by using light as a “remote control.”

Thing IRL: Researchers led by roboticist Aude Billard at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology have developed a highly flexible robotic hand that can grasp multiple objects at once — and even detach to crawl around independently.

Lunar Construction: Astroport Space Technologies and Venturi Astrolab have successfully tested a robotic lunar excavator designed to help build future infrastructure on the Moon.

Retinal Implant: A miniature wireless retinal implant is offering renewed hope to individuals who have lost their sight due to advanced age-related macular degeneration.

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]]>Vivify STEMDefining the difference between engineering and innovationIn this episode, Claire introduces us to the fascinating inventor and engineer, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, who is best known for creating the super soaker water gun. However, that is the least of his accomplishments. Claire and Natasha follow with a discussion on what makes a great engineer and the difference between engineers and inventors… if there is a difference! STEMist storytime, a debate on important engineering skills, and more feats of STEM in the news are in store for you, dear listeners. Tune in to hear what it is all about and don’t forget to grab the free lesson to go with the STEMist Highlight in our STEM Explorer library. ENGINEER SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Lonnie Johnson (b. 1949) is an American inventor and engineer whose curiosity started early. Growing up in Alabama, he loved taking things apart and even built a working robot in high school, winning a statewide science fair as the only Black student competing. Johnson went on to earn engineering degrees and worked for the U.S. Air Force and NASA, contributing to major missions like Galileo’s exploration of Jupiter. While experimenting at home in the 1980s, he accidentally created a powerful water stream that sparked an idea. After refining the design, he invented the Super Soaker, one of the best‑selling toys of all time. Dr. Johnson used its success to fund research in advanced batteries and clean energy through his own company. With more than 100 patents, he continues to innovate and inspire young engineers today.false00:32:122204What Makes a Great Inventor?fullWhat Makes a Great Inventor?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips203. What Your Students Should Know About RobotsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 27 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2026/203/your-students-and-robots54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:699f40aa5eee1d4524facec1Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire explore the fascinating world of robots and robotics—from the driver’s seat of their Tesla cars to the competition floor of First In Texas robotics. Natasha shares firsthand insights from her work in competitive robotics, while both hosts reflect on how robotics is already shaping our everyday lives.

You’ll also hear the inspiring story of George Devol, the inventor who helped launch the modern robotics industry, and why his legacy still matters today. The conversation dives into how and when students should be introduced to robotics, practical ways to spark curiosity, and why robotics education is more important than ever in preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving world.

Plus, the episode wraps with exciting recent feats in STEM that highlight just how fast innovation is moving.

Whether you're an educator, parent, tech enthusiast, or just robot-curious, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a glimpse into the future.

ENGINEER SPOTLIGHT: George Devol (1912-2011) was an American inventor who helped start the modern robotics industry. George, fascinated by circuits and mechanics, loved experimenting with electronics and machines. In 1954, he patented the first programmable robotic arm, a machine that could move objects automatically by following coded instructions. Working with engineer Joseph Engelberger, he built Unimate, the world’s first industrial robot. In 1961, it was put to work in a car factory, handling hot metal parts and doing dangerous jobs that once put people at risk. Devol’s invention changed manufacturing forever and helped pave the way for the robots we use today.

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105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

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In STEM News

Perseverance and AI!NASA’s Perseverance rover has achieved a major milestone on Mars by navigating with routes planned by artificial intelligence rather than human drivers. Using a vision-based AI system, the rover analyzed terrain images, spotted hazards like rocks and sand ripples, and mapped out its own safe path.

Do cows have the smarts to use tools? Read more about this fascinating study and use this free accompanying lesson plan from the New York Times!

New Dinosaur Species found!Scientists have discovered a new species of massive predatory dinosaur in Niger’s Sahara Desert: Spinosaurus mirabilis. It is only the second known Spinosaurus species and features a striking 20-inch, sword-shaped head crest likely used for display.

Eat pecans! A new review published in Nutrients finds strong evidence that pecans support heart health, particularly by improving cholesterol and other blood lipid markers.

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]]>Vivify STEMRobots, Engineering Skills, and What Students Need to KnowIn this episode, Natasha and Claire explore the fascinating world of robots and robotics—from the driver’s seat of their Tesla cars to the competition floor of First In Texas robotics. Natasha shares firsthand insights from her work in competitive robotics, while both hosts reflect on how robotics is already shaping our everyday lives. You’ll also hear the inspiring story of George Devol, the inventor who helped launch the modern robotics industry, and why his legacy still matters today. The conversation dives into how and when students should be introduced to robotics, practical ways to spark curiosity, and why robotics education is more important than ever in preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving world. Plus, the episode wraps with exciting recent feats in STEM that highlight just how fast innovation is moving. Whether you're an educator, parent, tech enthusiast, or just robot-curious, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a glimpse into the future. ENGINEER SPOTLIGHT: George Devol (1912-2011) was an American inventor who helped start the modern robotics industry. George, fascinated by circuits and mechanics, loved experimenting with electronics and machines. In 1954, he patented the first programmable robotic arm, a machine that could move objects automatically by following coded instructions. Working with engineer Joseph Engelberger, he built Unimate, the world’s first industrial robot. In 1961, it was put to work in a car factory, handling hot metal parts and doing dangerous jobs that once put people at risk. Devol’s invention changed manufacturing forever and helped pave the way for the robots we use today.false00:33:062203What Your Students Should Know About RobotsfullWhat Your Students Should Know About Robotsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips202. Trashy STEM and a Review of SEECClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 13 Feb 2026 11:30:11 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/202666/202/trashy-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:698b88b32c10bd1c74811322Show Summary:

We’re kicking off the new year with a spotlight on real engineers and scientists who inspire our work in STEM education. This week, we’re featuring Lillian Gilbreth and the incredible impact she made on engineering and human factors.

We’re also sharing highlights from our time at the 2026 SEEC conference — including the ideas, resources, and classroom-ready activities we brought back with us. And don’t miss the end of the episode, where we round up some of our favorite STEM news stories from the week!

ENGINEER SPOTLIGHT: Lillian Moller Gilbreth (1878–1972) was an American industrial engineer and psychologist who pioneered ergonomics and human-centered design. She helped develop the Therbligs, a system for analyzing basic human motions to improve efficiency, and applied these ideas to both workplaces and everyday objects, including the foot-pedal step trash can. With more than 20 patents, Gilbreth showed how thoughtful engineering can simplify tasks and improve daily life!

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150. Screw the Standards! Or Should We? ft. Dr. Pedersen

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Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC)

Titan Curriculum: COMING SOON! - Fill out this interest form to receive it as soon as it releases!

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In STEM News

Scientists Make Sound Waves Create “Levitating Time Crystals”

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Turning Air Pollution Into Something Useful

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]]>Vivify STEMReal Engineers, Real Inspiration, and Classroom Tools You Can UseWe’re kicking off the new year with a spotlight on real engineers and scientists who inspire our work in STEM education. This week, we’re featuring Lillian Gilbreth and the incredible impact she made on engineering and human factors. We’re also sharing highlights from our time at the 2026 SEEC conference — including the ideas, resources, and classroom-ready activities we brought back with us. And don’t miss the end of the episode, where we round up some of our favorite STEM news stories from the week! ENGINEER SPOTLIGHT: Lillian Moller Gilbreth (1878–1972) was an American industrial engineer and psychologist who pioneered ergonomics and human-centered design. She helped develop the Therbligs, a system for analyzing basic human motions to improve efficiency, and applied these ideas to both workplaces and everyday objects, including the foot-pedal step trash can. With more than 20 patents, Gilbreth showed how thoughtful engineering can simplify tasks and improve daily life!false00:25:402202Trashy STEM and a Review of SEECfullTrashy STEM and a Review of SEECinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips201. How to Structure a STEM Program ft. Sharon BoeseClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 06 Dec 2025 04:16:26 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/201/stem-class-structure54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:69308d8c9f99d25437b7ae53Show Summary:

Claire sits down with Sharon Boese, a dynamic STEM educator from McKinney Christian Academy in Texas, to explore what hands-on, inquiry-based science education looks like in action. Sharon shares what a typical day in her classroom entails - from guiding 8th graders through Earth and Space Science to inspiring younger students in the school’s K–5 STEM enrichment program.

We talk about how to balance multiple class preps and design unique experiences to prevent repetition across grade levels, and integrate creativity and rigor through project-based learning. Sharon also gives us a peek inside her students’ engineering notebooks and explains how documentation supports problem-solving and reflection. Whether you’re a fellow teacher looking for classroom inspiration or simply curious about how STEM education comes alive, this conversation offers practical insights and plenty of passion for learning.

About Sharon Boese: Sharon Boese is currently an eighth grade science/STEM teacher and an Elementary School STEM Coordinator at McKinney Christian Academy in McKinney, Texas. She has a great passion for all things space and constantly encourages her students to reach for the stars. Sharon is happily married to Michael, an environmental engineer. They have three sons who all have no choice but to love the nighttime sky. All are Eagle Scouts who earned the Astronomy and Space Exploration merit badges! Sharon hopes that one day one of her sons will become an Astronaut!

Credit: NASA Directory | Solar System Ambassadors - NASA Solar System Exploration

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128. Preparing for the New Science Standards in Texas

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Vivify Scope and Sequence

Sphero Bolt+ | Sphero Education

Tinkercad

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]]>Vivify STEMInside the STEM Classroom: Sharon Boese on Inquiry, Creativity, and Inspiring Young ScientistsClaire sits down with Sharon Boese, a dynamic STEM educator from McKinney Christian Academy in Texas, to explore what hands-on, inquiry-based science education looks like in action. Sharon shares what a typical day in her classroom entails - from guiding 8th graders through Earth and Space Science to inspiring younger students in the school’s K–5 STEM enrichment program. We talk about how to balance multiple class preps and design unique experiences to prevent repetition across grade levels, and integrate creativity and rigor through project-based learning. Sharon also gives us a peek inside her students’ engineering notebooks and explains how documentation supports problem-solving and reflection. Whether you’re a fellow teacher looking for classroom inspiration or simply curious about how STEM education comes alive, this conversation offers practical insights and plenty of passion for learning. About Sharon Boese: Sharon Boese is currently an eighth grade science/STEM teacher and an Elementary School STEM Coordinator at McKinney Christian Academy in McKinney, Texas. She has a great passion for all things space and constantly encourages her students to reach for the stars. Sharon is happily married to Michael, an environmental engineer. They have three sons who all have no choice but to love the nighttime sky. All are Eagle Scouts who earned the Astronomy and Space Exploration merit badges! Sharon hopes that one day one of her sons will become an Astronaut! Credit: NASA Directory | Solar System Ambassadors - NASA Solar System Explorationfalse00:32:451201How to Structure a STEM Program ft. Sharon BoesefullHow to Structure a STEM Program ft. Sharon Boeseinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips200. SUPER SPACE BUGS!Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 21 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/200/super-space-bugs54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:691dfd0a6a97cd45b024868eShow Summary:

In this episode, Claire shares her recent discovery of a backyard superfood – the Black Soldier Fly! She and Natasha discuss how this creature plays a key role in ecosystems involving efficient decomposition, nutritional livestock feed, and even in future space habitats. Learn why you may want to get involved, too!

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Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

197. You Should Build a Rocket… Seriously (Part 1)

199. Chickens and Rockets (Part 2)

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All About Black Soldier Flies | Grubbly Farms

The Urban Farm Podcast

Dr. Jeff Tomberlin | Texas A&M

Transforming Waste into Wealth: Black Soldier Fly Frass Explained | Flybox

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom Backyard Superfood to Space HabitatsIn this episode, Claire shares her recent discovery of a backyard superfood – the Black Soldier Fly! She and Natasha discuss how this creature plays a key role in ecosystems involving efficient decomposition, nutritional livestock feed, and even in future space habitats. Learn why you may want to get involved, too! false00:20:511200SUPER SPACE BUGS!fullSUPER SPACE BUGS!info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips199. Chickens and Rockets (Part 2)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/199/chickens-and-rockets54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6914d3ae86c16418d8935354Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire shares how she tells her story to inspire students and realistically see themselves achieving their dreams. Hear about her recent outreach day teaching about rockets using a home-built 8 foot tall model and of course an update on her chickens. Also get a taste of how STEM teachers can address the social emotional learning of their students. Natasha and Claire may not agree on the method of doing so. Tune in to hear more!

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Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Launch Rockets

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Chickens and Cold Weather: How Cold Can Chickens Tolerate?

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Decompile Your Mind: An Engineer’s Guide to Thoughts and Emotions(book)

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]]>Vivify STEMHow to reach your rocket dreams and have SEL DebatesIn this episode, Claire shares how she tells her story to inspire students and realistically see themselves achieving their dreams. Hear about her recent outreach day teaching about rockets using a home-built 8 foot tall model and of course an update on her chickens. Also get a taste of how STEM teachers can address the social emotional learning of their students. Natasha and Claire may not agree on the method of doing so. Tune in to hear more! false00:30:581199Chickens and Rockets (Part 2)fullChickens and Rockets (Part 2)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips198. An Engineer's Guide to Thoughts and Emotions (ft. Alison West and Audrey Gilfillan)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 07 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/198/engineers-guide-to-thoughts-and-emotions54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:690b8171c54e9a6b38c35c61Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire is joined by Audrey Gilfillan and Alison West, licensed professional counselors and embedded therapists in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at CU Boulder. Together, they bring extensive experience in college mental health, academic and career support, and community-based counseling. Audrey and Alison are co-authors of Decompile Your Mind: An Engineer’s Guide to Thoughts and Emotions and co-founders of Applied Wellness Initiatives, where they help educators, managers, and professionals integrate mental health awareness into their work and academic communities. Their shared passion is supporting young adults as they balance personal well-being with academic and professional goals in a fast-changing world.

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Resources Mentioned

Decompile Your Mind: An Engineer’s Guide to Thoughts and Emotions (book)

Scaffolded Mental Health Support Model (article)

Applied Health Initiatives

Email us your questions!

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]]>Vivify STEMSupporting Young Engineers: Balancing Mental Health, Academic Success, and Career GrowthIn this episode, Claire is joined by Audrey Gilfillan and Alison West, licensed professional counselors and embedded therapists in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at CU Boulder. Together, they bring extensive experience in college mental health, academic and career support, and community-based counseling. Audrey and Alison are co-authors of Decompile Your Mind: An Engineer’s Guide to Thoughts and Emotions and co-founders of Applied Wellness Initiatives, where they help educators, managers, and professionals integrate mental health awareness into their work and academic communities. Their shared passion is supporting young adults as they balance personal well-being with academic and professional goals in a fast-changing world. About Audrey: Audrey Gilfillan is a licensed professional counselor and works as an Embedded Therapist in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado at Boulder. With a background in academic coaching, career counseling, and college mental health, Audrey specializes supporting college students as they navigate the intersection of their academic goals and mental health. About Alison: Alison West is a licensed professional counselor and addiction specialist who also works as an Embedded Therapist in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at CU Boulder. Prior to working in higher education, Alison worked in community mental health, providing direct support through ongoing therapy, crisis response, and case management. Alison is passionate about supporting young adults as they navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world. About Applied Wellness Initiatives: At Applied Wellness Initiatives, Gilfillan and West translate emotional wellness into a language that resonates with engineers—using logic-based explanations, engineering examples, and applicable tools and processes. They offer emotional intelligence workshops, support for managers as they support their employees, engineering performance coaching, and their book - Decompile Your Mind - to help engineers and engineering teams improve performance, stay longer, and feel better.false00:35:431198An Engineer's Guide to Thoughts and Emotions (ft. Alison West and Audrey Gilfillan)fullAn Engineer's Guide to Thoughts and Emotions (ft. Alison West and Audrey Gilfillan)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips197. You Should Build a Rocket… SeriouslyClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 31 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/197/rockets-and-chickens54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6903d428ce2f5907da25cb31Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire dive into Claire’s upcoming outreach presentation on rockets. As Claire builds a large-scale cutaway model to showcase each part of a rocket, they explore the value of hands-on learning, problem-solving activities, and tackling common misconceptions about rockets. Plus, stick around for a fun update on Claire’s chickens!

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194. Should You Be a STEM Expert?

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Walking on eggshells — Assessing anxiety in chickens

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]]>Vivify STEMOne Rocket, Nine Chickens, Infinite CuriosityIn this episode, Natasha and Claire dive into Claire’s upcoming outreach presentation on rockets. As Claire builds a large-scale cutaway model to showcase each part of a rocket, they explore the value of hands-on learning, problem-solving activities, and tackling common misconceptions about rockets. Plus, stick around for a fun update on Claire’s chickens!false00:23:511197You Should Build a Rocket... SeriouslyfullYou Should Build a Rocket... Seriouslyinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips196. You Can Start a Microschool (ft. Changemaker Education's David Richards) Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 03 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/196/start-a-microschool54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:68dd892fe1fa33484b55c5abShow Summary:

In this episode of the STEM Space podcast, Claire chats with the Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education, David Richards. He shares his passion for love-based, personalized education that led to establishing a microschool for his own children. As an alternative to the outdated factory model of education, microschools tailor learning to the children that are being served. Tune in to hear how David turned his passion and problem solving into an organization to help others start their own microschools and learn how you can too!

About David Richards, Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education: David K. Richards is the Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education, a national network of affiliate love-based microschools and an incubator for founders who want to usher in a new paradigm for the future of education. He is also the host of the Changemaker ED“U” podcast. Previously, he was Founder & CEO of Growth Public Schools, and a founding teacher and leader with Summit Public Schools where he launched several innovative schools. In addition he serves as a leadership and life coach. David has worked in education reform for over 25 years as a teacher, principal, executive, and board member. He lives in Sacramento, CA with his wife and his two children, and holds a BA from UC Berkeley and an MA from Stanford University.

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]]>Vivify STEM“From Passion to Microschools: Reimagining Education One Child at a TimeIn this episode of the STEM Space podcast, Claire chats with the Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education, David Richards. He shares his passion for love-based, personalized education that led to establishing a microschool for his own children. As an alternative to the outdated factory model of education, microschools tailor learning to the children that are being served. Tune in to hear how David turned his passion and problem solving into an organization to help others start their own microschools and learn how you can too! About David Richards, Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education: David K. Richards is the Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education, a national network of affiliate love-based microschools and an incubator for founders who want to usher in a new paradigm for the future of education. He is also the host of the Changemaker ED“U” podcast. Previously, he was Founder & CEO of Growth Public Schools, and a founding teacher and leader with Summit Public Schools where he launched several innovative schools. In addition he serves as a leadership and life coach. David has worked in education reform for over 25 years as a teacher, principal, executive, and board member. He lives in Sacramento, CA with his wife and his two children, and holds a BA from UC Berkeley and an MA from Stanford University.false00:24:201196You Can Start a Microschool (ft. Changemaker Education's David Richards)fullYou Can Start a Microschool (ft. Changemaker Education's David Richards)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips195. The Impact of Game Development (LIVE Lab)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 26 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/195/live-lab54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:68d433c16fb7cf194fe00bb3Show Summary:

You are in for a treat! Do you have someone in your life that is interested in video games or game development? Claire talks with Aaron Thibault, the director of The LIVE Lab which is a research lab at Texas A&M University in the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts where students learn to create interactive learning experiences while getting real industry experience. Hear his story along with the impact that game-based learning can have on learning as well as some ways you as a teacher can bring LIVE Lab projects to your classroom.

About Aaron Thibault, LIVE Lab Director: Aaron Thibault is a game developer, educator and researcher who focuses on the innovation of game-based technologies that support learning and deep representations of people, environments and complex interactive scenarios. He was a key leader for the mega-franchise “Borderlands,” developed retention techniques and story pipelines for the first massive multiplayer game “Ultima Online,” and created the Digital Warrior game-based learning platform for the US Army as part of a joint TAMU-UT Austin “UXXI” digital transformation initiative. He organized and advised foundational research at his Digital Media CoLab including rtNEAT, a breakthrough real-time evolutionary neural network technique invented by Ken Stanley and an example of a core research invention that can only occur with support of a lab-based game development team. Aaron also helped start and managed the world’s first graduate degree program for games, The Guildhall at SMU, and is an ACM SIGGRAPH Pioneer and former IEEE virtual reality program chair.

About Texas A&M’s LIVE Lab: The LIVE Lab is a research lab at Texas A&M University in the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts where students learn to create interactive learning experiences while getting real industry experience. With the help of subject matter experts and instructional designers, students collaborate to make high-quality digital learning experiences, touching on every aspect of professional development including design, concept art, 3D modeling, development and management.

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]]>Vivify STEMLeveling Up Learning: Game Design Meets the Classroom with Aaron ThibaultYou are in for a treat! Do you have someone in your life that is interested in video games or game development? Claire talks with Aaron Thibault, the director of The LIVE Lab which is a research lab at Texas A&M University in the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts where students learn to create interactive learning experiences while getting real industry experience. Hear his story along with the impact that game-based learning can have on learning as well as some ways you as a teacher can bring LIVE Lab projects to your classroom. About Aaron Thibault, LIVE Lab Director: Aaron Thibault is a game developer, educator and researcher who focuses on the innovation of game-based technologies that support learning and deep representations of people, environments and complex interactive scenarios. He was a key leader for the mega-franchise “Borderlands,” developed retention techniques and story pipelines for the first massive multiplayer game “Ultima Online,” and created the Digital Warrior game-based learning platform for the US Army as part of a joint TAMU-UT Austin “UXXI” digital transformation initiative. He organized and advised foundational research at his Digital Media CoLab including rtNEAT, a breakthrough real-time evolutionary neural network technique invented by Ken Stanley and an example of a core research invention that can only occur with support of a lab-based game development team. Aaron also helped start and managed the world’s first graduate degree program for games, The Guildhall at SMU, and is an ACM SIGGRAPH Pioneer and former IEEE virtual reality program chair. About Texas A&M’s LIVE Lab: The LIVE Lab is a research lab at Texas A&M University in the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts where students learn to create interactive learning experiences while getting real industry experience. With the help of subject matter experts and instructional designers, students collaborate to make high-quality digital learning experiences, touching on every aspect of professional development including design, concept art, 3D modeling, development and management.false00:48:191195The Impact of Game Development (LIVE Lab ft. Aaron Thibault))fullThe Impact of Game Development (LIVE Lab ft. Aaron Thibault))info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips194. Should You Be a STEM Expert?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 19 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/194/be-a-stem-expert54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:68caf3289246b404379427f7Show Summary:

Natasha and Claire outline a new STEM curriculum that will be available for free through Space Club. Claire details her process on creating the science labs and engineering design challenges in the curriculum including representing accurate science content. Unsurprisingly, she learned that turning to the subject matter experts is the best way to ensure quality science and engineering content to ensure the science informs the engineering design. From chicken coop design to exploring ocean worlds, this episode is filled with inspiration and resources for your STEM program!

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Space Club - completely free!

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom Chicken Coops to Ocean Worlds: STEM That InspiresNatasha and Claire outline a new STEM curriculum that will be available for free through Space Club. Claire details her process on creating the science labs and engineering design challenges in the curriculum including representing accurate science content. Unsurprisingly, she learned that turning to the subject matter experts is the best way to ensure quality science and engineering content to ensure the science informs the engineering design. From chicken coop design to exploring ocean worlds, this episode is filled with inspiration and resources for your STEM program!false00:28:071194Should You Be a STEM Expert?fullShould You Be a STEM Expert?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips193. Are You Manufacturing Engineers?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 12 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/193/manufacturing-engineers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:68bcf9557389475758c28d32Show Summary:

Natasha and Claire dive into the often-overlooked role of manufacturing in STEM education, exploring how it connects to engineering and real-world applications in the classroom. Along the way, they catch up on the back-to-school happenings from the humor of kindergarten drama to the challenges of STEM burnout and strategies for managing it. Tune in to hear why manufacturing matters, how educators can integrate it into their teaching, and why it’s more relevant than ever for preparing students for future careers.

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]]>Vivify STEMWhy Manufacturing Deserves a Seat at the STEM TableNatasha and Claire dive into the often-overlooked role of manufacturing in STEM education, exploring how it connects to engineering and real-world applications in the classroom. Along the way, they catch up on the back-to-school happenings from the humor of kindergarten drama to the challenges of STEM burnout and strategies for managing it. Tune in to hear why manufacturing matters, how educators can integrate it into their teaching, and why it’s more relevant than ever for preparing students for future careers.false00:26:121193Are You Manufacturing Engineers?fullAre You Manufacturing Engineers?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips192. How to Address the Alien QuestionClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/192/do-aliens-exist54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:688b96cb69668a6601f3953dShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire kick things off with their latest animal adventures. But the real focus is on helping STEM teachers gear up for the new school year. They break down the top things you should be doing right now, including how to strategically approach your curriculum planning and what supplies you’ll want to stock up on before the school rush hits. Whether you’re a veteran teacher or new to the STEM classroom, this episode packs in practical tips to help you gear up for a great year ahead!

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]]>Vivify STEMTools to turn their curiosity into meaningful STEM discussions!In this episode of The STEM Space, we tackle a question that sparks curiosity in classrooms everywhere: “Do aliens exist?” We explore how educators can address this big question in a way that inspires critical thinking and scientific inquiry. From the famous Drake Equation to the intriguing concept of Von Neumann probes we’ll unpack the science and the imagination behind the search for extraterrestrial life. Whether your students are budding astronomers or just fascinated by the unknown, we’ll give you tools to turn their curiosity into meaningful STEM discussions.false00:26:051192How to Address the Alien QuestionfullHow to Address the Alien Questioninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips191. What STEM Teachers Should Do In the SummerClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 18 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/191/summer-for-stem-teachers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6876883f537e6d36383ed814Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire kick things off with their latest animal adventures. But the real focus is on helping STEM teachers gear up for the new school year. They break down the top things you should be doing right now, including how to strategically approach your curriculum planning and what supplies you’ll want to stock up on before the school rush hits. Whether you’re a veteran teacher or new to the STEM classroom, this episode packs in practical tips to help you gear up for a great year ahead!

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]]>Vivify STEMPractical prep before the school year startsIn this episode, Natasha and Claire kick things off with their latest animal adventures. But the real focus is on helping STEM teachers gear up for the new school year. They break down the top things you should be doing right now, including how to strategically approach your curriculum planning and what supplies you’ll want to stock up on before the school rush hits. Whether you’re a veteran teacher or new to the STEM classroom, this episode packs in practical tips to help you gear up for a great year ahead!false00:23:551191What STEM Teachers Should Do In the SummerfullWhat STEM Teachers Should Do In the Summerinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips190. Prime Picks: Vivify STEM's Smartest 2025 DealsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsTue, 08 Jul 2025 13:30:35 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/190/2025-prime-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:686c26ae0c06116c687950f7Show Summary:

Get ready for a deep dive into this year’s smartest Prime Day finds from Vivify STEM! In this episode, Claire spotlights her top picks to save you some money! From hands-on learning kits like Snap Circuits and the Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane, to classroom must-haves including science posters, thermal imaging cameras, and fluorescent light covers. Whether you're an educator, parent, or STEM enthusiast, she's curated a collection of innovative tools, quirky supplies, and helpful gear to level up any learning space. Tune in for a fun breakdown of each product and why it deserves a spot in your cart before the deals disappear!

These will be published to our Amazon Store under “Prime Day 2025 Picks” on July 8, 2025!

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]]>Vivify STEMClaire shares here 2025 Prime Day STEM Deals!!Get ready for a deep dive into this year’s smartest Prime Day finds from Vivify STEM! In this episode, Claire spotlights her top picks to save you some money! From hands-on learning kits like Snap Circuits and the Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane, to classroom must-haves including science posters, thermal imaging cameras, and fluorescent light covers. Whether you're an educator, parent, or STEM enthusiast, she's curated a collection of innovative tools, quirky supplies, and helpful gear to level up any learning space. Tune in for a fun breakdown of each product and why it deserves a spot in your cart before the deals disappear! These will be published to our Amazon Store under “Prime Day 2025 Picks” on July 8, 2025!false00:21:131190190. Prime Picks: Vivify STEM's Smartest 2025 Dealsfull190. Prime Picks: Vivify STEM's Smartest 2025 Dealsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips189. Applying the GLEAM Framework ft. Rolanda Baldwin of UnboundEdClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 27 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/189/gleam-framework54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:685ace947d451662a862400fShow Summary:

Natasha sits down with Rolanda Baldwin, a dynamic leader whose 20+ years in math education are transforming the way we think about numbers. Rolanda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring: from her early days as a classroom teacher and instructional coach in North Carolina, to serving as a district curriculum coordinator, and then rising through the ranks at UnboundEd from math specialist to Math Director. Now, as Vice President of Program Design, she’s spearheading the development of cutting-edge math and UPP programs that are setting new standards in education.

Discover how Rolanda’s passion is empowering every learner to see themselves as “math people.” Through her groundbreaking GLEAM framework - delivering Grade-Level, Engaging, Affirming, and Meaningful instruction - she equips educators with the tools to re-engineer math education and ignite a lifelong love of learning. Tune in to catch insights that are as transformative as they are practical!

About Rolanda Baldwin: With two decades of experience, Rolanda has worn many hats throughout her journey. She's been a middle and high school math teacher, a math instructional coach, and a district math curriculum coordinator in a large North Carolina district. Rolanda's love for mathematics education led her to join UnboundEd as a math specialist, where she rose to the role of Math Director. Today, she proudly serves as the Vice President of Program Design, where she's responsible for overseeing the growth and development of UnboundEd's entire math and UnboundEd Planning Process (UPP) program portfolio.

Rolanda’s thoughtful approach to program development and active involvement in strategic organizational initiatives and external partnerships are testaments to her sincere commitment to her craft. Her enthusiasm for mathematics education is infectious, and she's dedicated to empowering every individual to become a "math person." Rolanda is passionate about reshaping educational systems and frameworks to help educators plan and deliver grade-level, engaging, affirming, and meaningful math instruction.

About UnboundEd:UnboundEd is a trailblazing force in education, partnering with passionate educators to transform classrooms into hubs of high-quality, dynamic learning where every single student thrives. By championing innovative, research-based frameworks like GLEAM, UnboundEd is redefining the teaching landscape and inspiring educators to push the boundaries of what's possible in shaping tomorrow’s learners.

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom Classroom Roots to National Impact: Rolanda Baldwin’s GLEAMing VisionNatasha sits down with Rolanda Baldwin, a dynamic leader whose 20+ years in math education are transforming the way we think about numbers. Rolanda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring: from her early days as a classroom teacher and instructional coach in North Carolina, to serving as a district curriculum coordinator, and then rising through the ranks at UnboundEd from math specialist to Math Director. Now, as Vice President of Program Design, she’s spearheading the development of cutting-edge math and UPP programs that are setting new standards in education. Discover how Rolanda’s passion is empowering every learner to see themselves as “math people.” Through her groundbreaking GLEAM framework - delivering Grade-Level, Engaging, Affirming, and Meaningful instruction - she equips educators with the tools to re-engineer math education and ignite a lifelong love of learning. Tune in to catch insights that are as transformative as they are practical! Natasha sits down with Rolanda Baldwin, a dynamic leader whose 20+ years in math education are transforming the way we think about numbers. Rolanda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring: from her early days as a classroom teacher and instructional coach in North Carolina, to serving as a district curriculum coordinator, and then rising through the ranks at UnboundEd from math specialist to Math Director. Now, as Vice President of Program Design, she’s spearheading the development of cutting-edge math and UPP programs that are setting new standards in education. Discover how Rolanda’s passion is empowering every learner to see themselves as “math people.” Through her groundbreaking GLEAM framework - delivering Grade-Level, Engaging, Affirming, and Meaningful instruction - she equips educators with the tools to re-engineer math education and ignite a lifelong love of learning. Tune in to catch insights that are as transformative as they are practical!false00:24:221189Applying the GLEAM Framework ft. Rolanda Baldwin of UnBoundEdfullApplying the GLEAM Framework ft. Rolanda Baldwin of UnBoundEdinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips188. Which Design Process Should You Use in STEM?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 20 Jun 2025 09:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/188/which-design-process54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6852ee632af3b7169ee20e7cShow Summary:

Natasha and Claire return to unpack an essential question for STEM educators: Should you be using the Design Process or the Engineering Design Process in your classroom? With a mix of practical advice and personal stories, they explore how each approach supports creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. Whether you're a seasoned STEM teacher or just getting started, you'll hear thoughtful insights on when to emphasize open-ended design thinking versus structured problem-solving. Plus, the hosts dive into the importance of developing key “making” skills—like prototyping, tool use, and collaborative iteration—to empower students as confident creators and problem solvers. Tune in for a conversation that will help you make informed decisions to best support your students' growth as future innovators.

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom Prototype to Problem Solver: Navigating Design in STEMNatasha and Claire return to unpack an essential question for STEM educators: Should you be using the Design Process or the Engineering Design Process in your classroom? With a mix of practical advice and personal stories, they explore how each approach supports creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. Whether you're a seasoned STEM teacher or just getting started, you'll hear thoughtful insights on when to emphasize open-ended design thinking versus structured problem-solving. Plus, the hosts dive into the importance of developing key “making” skills—like prototyping, tool use, and collaborative iteration—to empower students as confident creators and problem solvers. Tune in for a conversation that will help you make informed decisions to best support your students' growth as future innovators.false00:22:521188Which Design Process Should You Use in STEM?fullWhich Design Process Should You Use in STEM?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips187. How to Make Math Meaningful ft. Ki Karou of MIND EducationClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 13 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/187/make-math-meaningful-ki-karou54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:684b5c3ddb693544d1a7232dShow Summary:

Have you used ST Math in your classroom? In today’s episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Ki Karou, Senior Director of Product at MIND Education, creators of this game-based math program. Their goal is to challenge students through active, visual learning and critical thinking that teaches students not only to learn math, but how to think. Tune in on a great conversation including how Ki believes we should shift from “real-world” problem solving to “meaningful” problem-solving.

About Ki Karou:Ki Karou, senior director of product at MIND Education, overseeing an entire team that is all about practical, low-lift strategies for sparking meaningful math conversations in any classroom—no extra prep, no fancy materials needed. It’s super actionable stuff for teachers who want to make math more collaborative and engaging without blowing up their lesson plans.

About Mind Education: MIND Education is transforming math learning with neuroscience-driven, game-based programs like ST Math, designed to make math visual, intuitive, and accessible. With over 25 years of research-backed solutions, they empower students to develop deep conceptual understanding and build confidence in problem-solving. Their mission is simple: help students think, not just memorize, creating meaningful learning experiences that change how math is taught and understood.

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]]>Vivify STEMHow Does ST Math Redefine Problem-Solving in the Classroom?Have you used ST Math in your classroom? In today’s episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Ki Karou, Senior Director of Product at MIND Education, creators of this game-based math program. Their goal is to challenge students through active, visual learning and critical thinking that teaches students not only to learn math, but how to think. Tune in on a great conversation including how Ki believes we should shift from “real-world” problem solving to “meaningful” problem-solving.false00:23:421187How to Make Math Meaningful ft. Ki Karou of MIND EducationfullHow to Make Math Meaningful ft. Ki Karou of MIND Educationinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips186. Mind and Motion: Where STEM Meets PE ft. Naomi Hartl of School SpecialtyClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 06 Jun 2025 12:18:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/186/mind-and-motion54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:683f3c87b44bdd2c7001f844Show Summary:

What happens when you bring physical education into the STEM classroom? In this episode of The STEM Space, we’re joined by Naomi Hartl, Education Strategist at School Specialty, who is excited about the possibilities of exactly that! With a teaching background that spans subjects such as biology, math, health, and PE, Naomi shares her passion for integrated learning that supports the whole child. She describes a favorite lesson that blends sports movement with physics and walks us through the surprising overlaps between PE and STEM standards. I think you will enjoy this energizing conversation that may spark ideas on how to bring health and wellness into your STEM classroom!

About Naomi Hartl:Naomi Hartl is on a mission to transform education. With a diverse background spanning biology, mathematics, health education, physical education, home economics, and career education, she brings a wealth of expertise to the table. A proud graduate of the University of Saskatchewan, Naomi began her teaching journey in her home province before taking her passion for learning to Oregon, USA. Since joining School Specialty in 2015, she has played a pivotal role in curriculum development and writing, ultimately stepping into her current role as Education Strategist for PE, Health & Wellness, and HS Science. Driven by a commitment to empowering educators and students, Naomi curates innovative solutions that foster safe, equitable, and impactful learning experiences. Her work is shaping the future of education—one inspired classroom at a time.

About School Specialty: School Specialty is a leading provider of educational products, services, and solutions designed to support student success. With a comprehensive portfolio that includes classroom supplies, furniture, curriculum resources, and professional development, they help schools create engaging and effective learning environments. Their mission is to empower educators and students by delivering innovative tools that enhance teaching and learning experiences.

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]]>Vivify STEMWhat happens when you bring physical education into the STEM classroom?What happens when you bring physical education into the STEM classroom? In this episode of The STEM Space, we’re joined by Naomi Hartl, Education Strategist at School Specialty, who is excited about the possibilities of exactly that! With a teaching background that spans subjects such as biology, math, health, and PE, Naomi shares her passion for integrated learning that supports the whole child. She describes a favorite lesson that blends sports movement with physics and walks us through the surprising overlaps between PE and STEM standards. I think you will enjoy this energizing conversation that may spark ideas on how to bring health and wellness into your STEM classroom!false00:28:581186Mind and Motion: Where STEM Meets PE ft. Naomi Hartl of School SpecialtyfullMind and Motion: Where STEM Meets PE ft. Naomi Hartl of School Specialtyinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips185. Cultivating Confident Decision-Makers in STEM ft. Ramin Mohajer and Alison StumacherClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 30 May 2025 14:13:18 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/185/cultivating-confident-decision-makers-in-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6836110bc757943357814b42Show Summary:

How do we help kids make better decisions, such as in  STEM challenges? In this episode of The STEM Space, we’re joined by Ramin Mohajer and Alison Stumacher from the Alliance for Decision Education. Ramin, a former corporate attorney turned nonprofit leader, is the Deputy Director of Organizational Development and believes students need cognitive tools—not just rules—to manage choices like screen time. Alison, a longtime educator, now works as the Deputy Director of Education to bring Decision Education into classrooms to help students navigate choices in school, relationships, and life.

Enjoy this thought-provoking conversation that may spark new ways to support your students as confident, capable decision-makers.

About Ramin Mohajer:Ramin, Deputy Director of Organizational Development at the nonprofit Alliance for Decision Education, believes that decision-making skills are the missing piece in this conversation. Rather than relying solely on school-wide cellphone bans, educators can equip students with the cognitive tools to regulate their own screen use—an essential skill for future scientists, engineers and problem-solvers.

About Alison Stumacher: Alison, Deputy Director of Education at the Alliance for Decision Education, is focused on ensuring that all students have access to the skills and tools they need to make better decisions. With over two decades in education across classroom teaching, instructional coaching, and leadership roles, she now works on developing solutions to bring Decision Education into classrooms—helping students build the skills they need to navigate choices in school, relationships, and life.

About the Alliance for Decision Education: The Alliance for Decision Education is a national nonprofit dedicated to making decision-making skills a core part of K-12 education. They believe that better decisions lead to better lives and work with educators and experts to equip students with essential cognitive tools, empowering them to navigate challenges both in and out of the classroom. Through innovative curricula and community initiatives, the Alliance is transforming education to foster confident, capable decision-makers for a better society.

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]]>Vivify STEMEmpowering Future Innovators Through Smart ChoicesHow do we help kids make better decisions, such as in  STEM challenges? In this episode of The STEM Space, we’re joined by Ramin Mohajer and Alison Stumacher from the Alliance for Decision Education. Ramin, a former corporate attorney turned nonprofit leader, is the Deputy Director of Organizational Development and believes students need cognitive tools—not just rules—to manage choices like screen time. Alison, a longtime educator, now works as the Deputy Director of Education to bring Decision Education into classrooms to help students navigate choices in school, relationships, and life. Enjoy this thought-provoking conversation that may spark new ways to support your students as confident, capable decision-makers.false00:25:001185Cultivating Confident Decision-Makers in STEM ft. Ramin Mohajer and Alison StumacherfullCultivating Confident Decision-Makers in STEM ft. Ramin Mohajer and Alison Stumacherinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips184. Is Teaching Coding Still Important? ft. CodeMonkey CEO Jonathan SchorClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 23 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/184/jonathan-schor-codemonkey54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:682f890b1e041716ff78d2eeShow Summary:

Natasha sits down with Jonathan Schor, visionary co-founder and CEO behind CodeMonkey. This award-winning, game-based platform isn’t just fun; it equips students with real-world coding skills in a way that makes computer science accessible and exciting for every classroom. Discover how Jonathan’s leadership has propelled CodeMonkey into a globally trusted tool for educators, and get inspired by his journey as he shares the impact of this groundbreaking platform and what the future holds for K-12 coding. Tune in now and get ready to re-imagine the possibilities in your classroom!

About Jonathan Schor, CEO of CodeMonkey: Jonathan Schor is the driving force behind CodeMonkey, an award-winning game-based platform that teaches real-world coding skills to students in a fun and engaging way. With a passion for making coding accessible to learners of all ages, Jonathan has helped shape CodeMonkey into a global tool for educators looking to bring computer science into their classrooms. Under his leadership, CodeMonkey has reached millions of students worldwide, empowering the next generation of problem-solvers and creators. We’re excited to dive into Jonathan’s journey, the impact of CodeMonkey, and what’s next for coding in STEM education.

About CodeMonkey: Write Code. Catch Bananas. Save the World. CodeMonkey was founded in 2014, based on Jonathan’s successful experiences in teaching young children to code through playful activities. Today, at CodeMonkey brings fun, knowledge and opportunity into the lives of millions of learners around the world. CodeMonkey envisions a global playful learning experience where the next generations of coders are born and raised. CodeMonkey aims to create an engaging platform where programming knowledge is acquired alongside 21st century skills through collaboratively playing and solving puzzles, inventing, creating and sharing.

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]]>Vivify STEMWhere Code Meets Play: Igniting the Spark of InnovationNatasha sits down with Jonathan Schor, visionary co-founder and CEO behind CodeMonkey. This award-winning, game-based platform isn’t just fun; it equips students with real-world coding skills in a way that makes computer science accessible and exciting for every classroom. Discover how Jonathan’s leadership has propelled CodeMonkey into a globally trusted tool for educators, and get inspired by his journey as he shares the impact of this groundbreaking platform and what the future holds for K-12 coding. Tune in now and get ready to re-imagine the possibilities in your classroom!false00:19:031184Is Teaching Coding Still Important? ft. CodeMonkey CEO Jonathan SchorfullIs Teaching Coding Still Important? ft. CodeMonkey CEO Jonathan Schorinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips183. Stratospheric STEM: From Helium Hiccups to High-Altitude HeroicsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 16 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/183/stratospheric-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:68239101ef99b657d5c4e7a1Show Summary:

Claire is back — and she’s taking us to the edge of space!Listen in as she shares the behind-the-scenes story of launching a weather balloon nearly 89,000 feet into the atmosphere! Despite flooding in Texas, a helium tank mix-up, and a few unmotivated students, her class pulled off one of the ultimate STEM challenges: a high-altitude balloon mission with a successful recovery! Tune in to hear what happened to the onboard science experiment, and get all the details on how to plan your own stratospheric STEM adventure.

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]]>Vivify STEMRising Above Obstacles: How Texas Floods and Helium Mix-Ups Launched an 89,000-Foot STEM Adventure!Claire is back — and she’s taking us to the edge of space! Listen in as she shares the behind-the-scenes story of launching a weather balloon nearly 89,000 feet into the atmosphere! Despite flooding in Texas, a helium tank mix-up, and a few unmotivated students, her class pulled off one of the ultimate STEM challenges: a high-altitude balloon mission with a successful recovery! Tune in to hear what happened to the onboard science experiment, and get all the details on how to plan your own stratospheric STEM adventure.false00:41:421183Stratospheric STEM: From Helium Hiccups to High-Altitude HeroicsfullStratospheric STEM: From Helium Hiccups to High-Altitude Heroicsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips182. Power On! The Fight for Equity in Tech ft. Drs. Jean Ryoo & Jane MargolisClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 09 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/182/power-on54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:681a4739ad8c8c2b88a15e19Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with UCLA researchers Dr. Jean Ryoo and Dr. Jane Margolis—leaders on the frontlines of broadening K–12 computer science education. Their research inspired Power On!, a graphic novel that follows four high school students confronting technology’s harmful impact, urging young readers to evolve into critical creators rather than passive users. Dr. Ryoo champions culturally responsive computing by amplifying minoritized student voices, while Dr. Margolis—an advocate for equity since 1994 and a White House Champion of Change honoree—brings decades of experience to the conversation. Tune in for a dynamic discussion on empowering students to thoughtfully navigate and shape the future of technology.

About Dr. Ryoo: Dr. Jean Ryoo is the Director of Research at UCLA’s Computer Science Equity Project, championing equity in STEM by amplifying minoritized voices. Her work transforms research into action—highlighted by Power On!, a graphic novel published by MIT Press—and she collaborates with initiatives like Girls Who Code and the Exploratorium’s Tinkering Studio. An AERA Jan Hawkins Early Career Award honoree with support from NSF, the Gates Foundation, and others, she earned her Ph.D. from UCLA, her Master’s in Teaching from Hawai’i, and her Bachelor’s from Harvard.

About Dr. Margolis: Dr. Jane Margolis is a transformative leader in equitable computer science education. As a Senior Researcher Emerita at UCLA, she’s been challenging the status quo since 1994 by championing the inclusion of women and students of color. Co-author of Power On! and the groundbreaking texts Unlocking the Clubhouse and Stuck in the Shallow End, she helped launch the UCLA CS Equity Project and build a lasting partnership with LAUSD. Named a White House Champion of Change in 2016, Margolis’s work continues to redefine who gets to shape our digital future.

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom Passive Users to Critical Creators: Rethinking K–12 Computer ScienceIn this episode, Natasha chats with UCLA researchers Dr. Jean Ryoo and Dr. Jane Margolis—leaders on the frontlines of broadening K–12 computer science education. Their research inspired Power On!, a graphic novel that follows four high school students confronting technology’s harmful impact, urging young readers to evolve into critical creators rather than passive users. Dr. Ryoo champions culturally responsive computing by amplifying minoritized student voices, while Dr. Margolis—an advocate for equity since 1994 and a White House Champion of Change honoree—brings decades of experience to the conversation. Tune in for a dynamic discussion on empowering students to thoughtfully navigate and shape the future of technology. About Dr. Ryoo: Dr. Jean Ryoo is the Director of Research at UCLA’s Computer Science Equity Project, championing equity in STEM by amplifying minoritized voices. Her work transforms research into action—highlighted by Power On!, a graphic novel published by MIT Press—and she collaborates with initiatives like Girls Who Code and the Exploratorium’s Tinkering Studio. An AERA Jan Hawkins Early Career Award honoree with support from NSF, the Gates Foundation, and others, she earned her Ph.D. from UCLA, her Master’s in Teaching from Hawai’i, and her Bachelor’s from Harvard. About Dr. Margolis: Dr. Jane Margolis is a transformative leader in equitable computer science education. As a Senior Researcher Emerita at UCLA, she’s been challenging the status quo since 1994 by championing the inclusion of women and students of color. Co-author of Power On! and the groundbreaking texts Unlocking the Clubhouse and Stuck in the Shallow End, she helped launch the UCLA CS Equity Project and build a lasting partnership with LAUSD. Named a White House Champion of Change in 2016, Margolis’s work continues to redefine who gets to shape our digital future.false00:36:031182Power On! The Fight for Equity in Tech ft. Drs. Jean Ryoo & Jane MargolisfullPower On! The Fight for Equity in Tech ft. Drs. Jean Ryoo & Jane Margolisinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips181. How to Make Science Stick ft. Dr. Erica ColónClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 02 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/181/how-to-make-science-stick54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6813a96f07f0f57b8e89b4a8Show Summary:

Natasha sits down with Dr. Erica Colón, the visionary behind NGS Magnified—formerly known as Nitty Gritty Science—to explore the profound impact of science education. Erica shares her journey of sparking curiosity in students and how that passion evolved into equipping educators with the tools to deliver engaging and accessible science instruction. She emphasizes that science doesn’t have to be complex to be meaningful—simple, hands-on activities can foster a deep appreciation for the natural world and inspire lifelong discovery. Throughout the conversation, Erica offers valuable insights on making science both fun and approachable, ensuring students and educators alike feel empowered in their learning journey.

About Erica: Dr. Erica Colón is a National Board Certified Teacher with over twelve years of teaching experience in 6th-12th grade secondary science, including Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Marine Science. In 2008 Erica earned her Master’s in Educational Administration but quickly realized her passion was working with science teachers. Erica returned to earn her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in science and technology, and in 2012, she founded Nitty Gritty Science, LLC, where she continues to design and publish science curriculum which can be found in thousands of classrooms around the globe!

Dr. Colón also organizes and hosts the Champions For Science Virtual Conference Series for science educators, where extraordinary leaders, creators, and innovators in science education come together to focus on the most important matter – our students –the future CHAMPIONS FOR SCIENCE!

About NGS Magnified: NGS Magnified, formerly Nitty Gritty Science, is dedicated to making science engaging and accessible for both students and educators. With a focus on simplifying complex concepts, they provide interactive lessons, curriculum support, and professional development to empower teachers in the classroom. Their mission is to spark curiosity and deepen scientific understanding through creative teaching strategies and hands-on learning experiences.

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]]>Vivify STEMScience doesn't need to be complicated!Natasha sits down with Dr. Erica Colón, the visionary behind NGS Magnified—formerly known as Nitty Gritty Science—to explore the profound impact of science education. Erica shares her journey of sparking curiosity in students and how that passion evolved into equipping educators with the tools to deliver engaging and accessible science instruction. She emphasizes that science doesn’t have to be complex to be meaningful—simple, hands-on activities can foster a deep appreciation for the natural world and inspire lifelong discovery. Throughout the conversation, Erica offers valuable insights on making science both fun and approachable, ensuring students and educators alike feel empowered in their learning journey. About Erica: Dr. Erica Colón is a National Board Certified Teacher with over twelve years of teaching experience in 6th-12th grade secondary science, including Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Marine Science. In 2008 Erica earned her Master’s in Educational Administration but quickly realized her passion was working with science teachers. Erica returned to earn her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in science and technology, and in 2012, she founded Nitty Gritty Science, LLC, where she continues to design and publish science curriculum which can be found in thousands of classrooms around the globe! Dr. Colón also organizes and hosts the Champions For Science Virtual Conference Series for science educators, where extraordinary leaders, creators, and innovators in science education come together to focus on the most important matter – our students –the future CHAMPIONS FOR SCIENCE! About NGS Magnified: NGS Magnified, formerly Nitty Gritty Science, is dedicated to making science engaging and accessible for both students and educators. With a focus on simplifying complex concepts, they provide interactive lessons, curriculum support, and professional development to empower teachers in the classroom. Their mission is to spark curiosity and deepen scientific understanding through creative teaching strategies and hands-on learning experiences.false00:32:011181How to Make Science Stick ft. Dr. Erica ColónfullHow to Make Science Stick ft. Dr. Erica Colóninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips180. The Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science InitiativeClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 25 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/180/nichole-austion-nmsi54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6807d9cc31ca13349cb8d9bcShow Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with Nichole Austion — children’s book author and Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI). Nichole shares the story behind her book Miles and the Math Monsters, inspired by her son’s journey to overcome struggles with math, where the character discovers math to be a helpful companion intertwined in their everyday environment. Listen in as she shares an excerpt of her book and practical advice on fostering a positive math identity in children.

About Nichole Austion, VP of Public Affairs at NMSI: Nichole Austion is the Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI), where she leads marketing and government relations. With a focus on STEM advancement, Nichole orchestrates strategic initiatives, bridging marketing and government relations to amplify NMSI’s impact nationwide. Her expertise stems from her work with global technology firms like Sabre Holdings and Teradata, where she drove multimillion-dollar revenue through innovative marketing strategies. She is the author of “Miles and the Math Monsters,” a children’s book that transforms math into a friendly presence, encouraging children to see it as a helpful companion intertwined with their everyday environment. She holds an engineering degree from Howard University and an MBA from The University of Texas at Austin.

About National Math and Science Initiative: The National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving STEM education in the U.S. It focuses on expanding access to high-quality math and science programs, particularly for students who face barriers to educational opportunities. Since its founding in 2007, NMSI has worked with schools, teachers, and policymakers to enhance STEM learning and prepare students for careers in STEM fields.

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]]>Vivify STEMfostering a positive math identity in children In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with Nichole Austion — children’s book author and Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI). Nichole shares the story behind her book Miles and the Math Monsters, inspired by her son’s journey to overcome struggles with math, where the character discovers math to be a helpful companion intertwined in their everyday environment. Listen in as she shares an excerpt of her book and practical advice on fostering a positive math identity in children.false00:24:051180The Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science InitiativefullThe Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science Initiativeinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips179. Seeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative MathematicsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSun, 20 Apr 2025 14:59:18 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/179/cherelle-mcknight-illustrative-mathematics54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67fe9c8b607f2547924d8020Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Cherelle McKnight on all things math, including building a positive math identity, the systematic barriers in math education, and the challenges teachers face in the math classroom. Cherelle is a former mathematics teacher who now works as the director of PK–5 content development at Illustrative Mathematics, a non-profit organization that offers free K-12 math curriculum with a mission to create a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics.

About Cherelle McKnight, Director of PK-5 Content Development at Illustrative Mathematics: Cherelle McKnight received a BA in audio production and a minor in human development from Howard University. Cherelle went on to complete her MA, specializing in PK–5, at Mercer University.

Cherelle has served as a mathematics teacher, coach, curriculum and instruction specialist, and consultant. She is passionate about supporting students, teachers, and parents and helping them develop positive mathematical identities. Cherelle is currently the director of PK–5 content development at Illustrative Mathematics.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Cherelle is a Formula 1 driver. (Cherelle loves to play Mario Kart.) She and her wife are the proud pawrents of a Frenchie.

About Illustrative Mathematics: Illustrative Mathematics (IM) has created research-backed, standards-aligned K–12 mathematics curricula since its founding in 2011. Thoughtfully designed and expert-authored, IM’s comprehensive suite of math curricula is designed to encourage inclusive, engaging mathematical discussions supported by tasks, lesson plans, professional learning, and community.

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]]>Vivify STEMBuilding a positive math identity, the systematic barriers in math education, & the challenges teachers face in the math classroom.In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Cherelle McKnight on all things math, including building a positive math identity, the systematic barriers in math education, and the challenges teachers face in the math classroom. Cherelle is a former mathematics teacher who now works as the director of PK–5 content development at Illustrative Mathematics, a non-profit organization that offers free K-12 math curriculum with a mission to create a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics.false00:33:491179Seeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative MathematicsfullSeeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative Mathematicsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips178. Getting Kids to ThinkClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 11 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/178/getting-kids-to-think54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67f561768f55b72f6b136727Show Summary:

Claire is in survival mode as she juggles multiple big STEM projects, including a weather balloon launch to the stratosphere! Claire and Natasha also chat about something we’ve both noticed in our classrooms: how students don’t know how to think through a problem. Instead of pausing to figure things out, they immediately ask for help. So in this episode, we’re talking about ways to encourage our students to slow down, think critically, and build those problem-solving muscles.

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]]>Vivify STEMHow to encourage students to think criticallyClaire is in survival mode as she juggles multiple big STEM projects, including a weather balloon launch to the stratosphere! Claire and Natasha also chat about something we’ve both noticed in our classrooms: how students don’t know how to think through a problem. Instead of pausing to figure things out, they immediately ask for help. So in this episode, we’re talking about ways to encourage our students to slow down, think critically, and build those problem-solving muscles.false00:21:401178Getting Kids to ThinkfullGetting Kids to Thinkinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips177. The Power of Makerspaces ft. Dr. Leah Hanes of Two Bit CircusClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 04 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/177/makerspaces-dr-leah-hanes54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67ed6f8d6d59be303f3763a7Show Summary:

Natasha chats with Dr. Leah Hanes, CEO of the Two Bit Circus Foundation, a nonprofit transforming STEAM education through hands-on, student-driven learning. Dr. Hanes highlights the power of makerspaces and how her organization upcycles industrial materials into creative classroom tools. She also advocates for embracing AI in education. While some fear student use of AI, she encourages AI as a tool to level the playing field, providing personalized support for students and helping teachers enhance learning for all.

About Dr. Leah Hanes, CEO of Two Bit Circus Foundation: Dr. Leah Hanes blends creativity, leadership, and a passion for education in her work at Two Bit Circus Foundation. From award-winning TV production in Toronto to talent representation in Hollywood, she has built a career driven by storytelling and innovation.

Her early life on a Canadian farm shaped her commitment to sustainability, while her studies in Early Childhood Education fueled her dedication to hands-on learning. With a Master’s in Organizational Management and a PhD in Leadership and Change from Antioch University, she continues to champion student-driven, experiential education that prepares learners for the future.

About Two Bit Circus Foundation: Two Bit Circus Foundation is a Los Angeles based 501(c)3 nonprofit that creates STEAM learning experiences for kids that inspire innovation and entrepreneurship by building games, telling stories with technology, and challenging kids to make what they imagine using sustainable materials and STEAM.

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]]>Vivify STEMUpcycling industrial materials into creative classroom toolsNatasha chats with Dr. Leah Hanes, CEO of the Two Bit Circus Foundation, a nonprofit transforming STEAM education through hands-on, student-driven learning. Dr. Hanes highlights the power of makerspaces and how her organization upcycles industrial materials into creative classroom tools. She also advocates for embracing AI in education. While some fear student use of AI, she encourages AI as a tool to level the playing field, providing personalized support for students and helping teachers enhance learning for all.false00:26:501177The Power of Makerspaces ft. Dr. Leah Hanes of Two Bit CircusfullThe Power of Makerspaces ft. Dr. Leah Hanes of Two Bit Circusinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips176. How to Promote Entrepreneurship in the ClassroomClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 28 Mar 2025 19:04:33 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/176/entrepreneurship-in-the-classroom54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67e2e484d5e8563657acfe03Show Summary:

In this episode of the STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss how to build an entrepreneurial mindset in the classroom, why free isn’t always a good thing (especially when it comes to materials in a STEM challenge!), and why constraints spark creativity.

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]]>Vivify STEMBuilding entrepreneurial mindset in the classroomIn this episode of the STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss how to build an entrepreneurial mindset in the classroom, why free isn’t always a good thing (especially when it comes to materials in a STEM challenge!), and why constraints spark creativity.false00:24:011176How to Promote Entrepreneurship in the ClassroomfullHow to Promote Entrepreneurship in the Classroominfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips175. How Robotics Transforms Learning ft. Jason McKenna of VEX RoboticsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 21 Mar 2025 16:30:47 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/175/jason-mckenna-vex-robotics54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67da075dced5976a14320a73Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, we bring you a special live-recorded conversation with Jason McKenna from VEX Robotics! Broadcasting straight from the VEX Classroom, Jason showcases an incredible lineup of robotic solutions designed to transform learning environments. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Jason shares his personal journey—including a pivotal moment when he almost walked away from education due to burnout. But everything changed when he saw firsthand how a robotics lesson could transform his classroom. Join us as we explore why robotics and STEM education are for every student, and how they can empower both learners and educators to embrace creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery.

About Jason McKenna, VP of Global Education Strategy for VEX Robotics: Jason McKenna is an educator, author, and advocate for innovative and equitable learning practices. As Vice President of Global Educational Strategy at VEX Robotics, Jason helms the strategic direction of educational platforms within the VEX Continuum. With a focus on integrating STEM, technology, and creative thinking into education, Jason is passionate about empowering teachers and preparing students for the demands of a rapidly changing world.

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]]>Vivify STEMInsight into VEX RoboticsIn this episode of The STEM Space, we bring you a special live-recorded conversation with Jason McKenna from VEX Robotics! Broadcasting straight from the VEX Classroom, Jason showcases an incredible lineup of robotic solutions designed to transform learning environments. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Jason shares his personal journey—including a pivotal moment when he almost walked away from education due to burnout. But everything changed when he saw firsthand how a robotics lesson could transform his classroom. Join us as we explore why robotics and STEM education are for every student, and how they can empower both learners and educators to embrace creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery.false00:28:021175How Robotics Transforms Learning ft. Jason Mckenna of Vex RoboticsfullHow Robotics Transforms Learning ft. Jason Mckenna of Vex Roboticsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips174. Empowering Kids with Stylish STEM ft. Prisma KiddosClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/174/prisma-kiddos54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67d1d58e3338232e202de808Show Summary:

As a mom to two daughters, Natasha is always on the lookout for STEM-inspired clothing that’s both stylish and empowering. If you can relate or are interested in the story of two passionate entrepreneurs, then this episode is for you! Join Claire and Natasha as they sit down with Margarita (Maty) and Ana—the creative co-founders behind Prisma Kiddos. Frustrated by the lack of options in kids’ fashion, these passionate moms took matters into their own hands, launching a brand that blends STEM inspiration, gender empowerment, and sustainability into every unique outfit. In this conversation, we explore their journey as entrepreneurs, the challenges they’ve faced, and the passion that drives their mission. (Plus, Remi makes a special appearance to show off one of her favorite Prisma Kiddos looks!)

About Prisma Kiddos:

Prisma Kiddos is driven by the vision of two incredible moms, Ana and Maty, who saw a need to break free from traditional gender norms and promote equality through fashion. Their mission is to inspire the next generation of kids to embrace their curiosity, creativity, and passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

With designs that go beyond stereotypes, Prisma Kiddos offers non-traditional clothing options that empower girls and introduce boys to sensitive and thoughtful themes. Their eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices reflect their commitment to sustainability, making sure that their products are not only stylish but also kind to the planet.

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]]>Vivify STEMclothing that empower girls As a mom to two daughters, Natasha is always on the lookout for STEM-inspired clothing that’s both stylish and empowering. If you can relate or are interested in the story of two passionate entrepreneurs, then this episode is for you! Join Claire and Natasha as they sit down with Margarita (Maty) and Ana—the creative co-founders behind Prisma Kiddos. Frustrated by the lack of options in kids’ fashion, these passionate moms took matters into their own hands, launching a brand that blends STEM inspiration, gender empowerment, and sustainability into every unique outfit. In this conversation, we explore their journey as entrepreneurs, the challenges they’ve faced, and the passion that drives their mission. (Plus, Remi makes a special appearance to show off one of her favorite Prisma Kiddos looks!)false00:23:541174Empowering Kids with Stylish STEM ft. Prisma KiddosfullEmpowering Kids with Stylish STEM ft. Prisma Kiddosinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips173. Getting Students Across the Finish Line Ft. Debra HettlemanClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 07 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/173/debra-hettleman-building-steps54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67c8996861991612b5aa369eShow Summary:

Natasha chats with Debra Hettleman, the CEO of Building STEPS, which stands for Science, Technology And Education Partnerships. This nonprofit is dedicated to fostering college and career success through a multi-year program in Baltimore’s most underserved public high schools. From college prep workshops to summer internships at local STEM companies, Building STEPS helps students navigate the path to college success including applying, attending, and graduating. Debra also shares her journey in growing the organization, insights on scaling it to other cities, and surprising lessons learned from expanding the program to younger grades.

About Debra Hettleman, CEO of Building STEPS: Debra launched Building STEPS in 1999 with the purpose of creating a college pathway for underrepresented students to become STEM professionals. Today, she oversees all aspects of this Baltimore nonprofit from developing and maintaining corporate and institutional partners to advising the Board on creating and implementing growth strategies. She is a graduate of the Greater Baltimore Committee’s The Leadership and has been honored by the Baltimore Business Journal as Maryland’s Top 100 Women. She earned her Project Management Professional certification in 2020. Outside of work, Debra can be found hiking the trails of Maryland’s parks.

Building STEPS (Science, Technology and Education Partnerships, Inc.) is a nonprofit that equips Baltimore's brightest students with the tools to propel them to college and career success. The multi-year program, currently available in fifteen of Baltimore's more challenged public high schools, includes seminars, a paid summer internship, college counseling and alumni services.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers

122. How to Motivate Students

82. How to Rock it with Rockets

73. Does STEM Track?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

How to Launch Model Rockets & Amaze Your Students!

Vivify STEM Lessons

Break Down Stereotypes! Who is a STEM Professional? game & activities

STEM Careers BINGO - K-5 or 5-12

STEM Careers or Inspirational STEM Classroom Posters

STEM Tech Choice Boards - Career, Field Trip, and Types of Tech

FREE - Interview Questions to Ask STEM Professionals

Other STEM Resources

Building STEPS - Baltimore

Towson University

Communities in Schools (CIS)

Step Into STEM - VelocityTX

University of Maryland, College Park

Texas A&M University Young Scholars PATHS-UP Program

US Naval Academy

Email us your questions and more!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Debra Hettleman, the CEO of Building STEPS in BaltimoreNatasha chats with Debra Hettleman, the CEO of Building STEPS, which stands for Science, Technology And Education Partnerships. This nonprofit is dedicated to fostering college and career success through a multi-year program in Baltimore’s most underserved public high schools. From college prep workshops to summer internships at local STEM companies, Building STEPS helps students navigate the path to college success including applying, attending, and graduating. Debra also shares her journey in growing the organization, insights on scaling it to other cities, and surprising lessons learned from expanding the program to younger grades.false00:35:081173Getting Students Across the Finish Line Ft. Debra HettlemanfullGetting Students Across the Finish Line Ft. Debra Hettlemaninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips172. Stop Buying 3D Printers!Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 28 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/172/3d-printers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67be2d9717d0df1fb3875390Show Summary:

Do you use a 3D printer in your classroom? In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha dive into the reality of owning and using 3D printers in the classroom. These machines definitely bring the ‘wow’ factor, but are they really worth the hype? From bridges to weather balloons, we share our experiences incorporating 3D printing into our design challenges. But these projects also came with a lot of headaches including an overwhelming time commitment and ultimately unclear learning outcomes. Join us as we discuss why it might be time to hit pause on the 3D printer craze and rethink their role in your curriculum.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

115. How to Design a Makerspace

Prototyping:

- 113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of Prototyping

- 120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM

144. Another Year of Smashing STEM (bridging classroom objects)

90. We Launched a Weather Balloon

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Must Have STEM Tools

Launching Weather Balloons

Vivify STEM Lessons

Australia Safety Capsule STEM Challenge

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Semester STEM Units (includes Space Colony!): choose from Moon or Mars themes!

Other STEM Resources

CAD Software:

- SOLIDWORKS

- Tinkercad

- CATIA

- Revit (for students)

Rube Goldberg contests

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEM Are they really worth the hype?Do you use a 3D printer in your classroom? In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha dive into the reality of owning and using 3D printers in the classroom. These machines definitely bring the ‘wow’ factor, but are they really worth the hype? From bridges to weather balloons, we share our experiences incorporating 3D printing into our design challenges. But these projects also came with a lot of headaches including an overwhelming time commitment and ultimately unclear learning outcomes. Join us as we discuss why it might be time to hit pause on the 3D printer craze and rethink their role in your curriculum.false00:21:211172Stop Buying 3D Printers!fullStop Buying 3D Printers!info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips171. How to Empower All Students with STEM ft. Carlos Romero Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 21 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/171/empower-all-students-with-stem-carlos-romero54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67b0ff2a000b0715d917b8abShow Summary:

Natasha chats with Carlos Romero, a STEM professional who is passionate about making STEM more inclusive and accessible for all students. With a background in chemical engineering and a career in product development and project management, Carlos shares his experiences in the STEM industry to highlight how educators can prepare students for future careers. He also shares ideas for the STEM classroom including ways to integrate entrepreneurship, market research, and patents into an engineering lesson.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science

98. Who is an Engineer?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons

Lessons About Communication:

- Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM

- Intro to Coding STEM Activity

- Manipulating Genetics: GMO STEM Unit + Classroom Debate (5E Model)

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

STEM Careers:

- Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (Break down stereotypes!)

- STEM Career Classroom Posters

- STEM Careers BINGO: K-5, 5-12, or Women in STEM

- Interview Questions to ask STEM Professionals

- FREE Women in STEM Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

LinkedIn | Carlos Romero

74Million.org | Encouraging Latino Students to Pursue STEM Careers

National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI)

National Inventors Hall of Fame | Teaching Kids About Patents

Gain access to Vivify’s expanding lesson library when you become a member of The STEM Space!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMMaking STEM more inclusive and accessible for all students!Natasha chats with Carlos Romero, a STEM professional who is passionate about making STEM more inclusive and accessible for all students. With a background in chemical engineering and a career in product development and project management, Carlos shares his experiences in the STEM industry to highlight how educators can prepare students for future careers. He also shares ideas for the STEM classroom including ways to integrate entrepreneurship, market research, and patents into an engineering lesson.false00:34:441171How to Empower All Students with STEM ft. Carlos Romero fullHow to Empower All Students with STEM ft. Carlos Romero info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips170. The Story Behind the Virtual Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 2)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 31 Jan 2025 16:35:21 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/170/virtual-makerspace-qweebi-part-254807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6799446aaca2013585765651Show Summary:

Welcome back to the second part of Natasha and Claire’s conversation with the co-founders of Qweebi! In this episode, they shift gears to explore the story behind Qweebi’s creation by diving into the partnership of Aman and Vivek. They’ll uncover how these two visionaries met, what brought them together, and what it’s like to collaborate as co-founders on a mission to transform STEM education. And stay tuned to the end when Aman and Vivek turn the tables to ask Claire and Natasha about their journey as co-founders of Vivify STEM.

Qweebi is the first-ever online makerspace that lets teachers run STEM projects across engineering, electronics, and robotics without needing any supplies. All projects are aligned to NGSS standards and designed to hit learning outcomes for grades 3-8. Want to learn more about Qweebi?Try out the Roller Coaster project for FREE!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

169. A Virtual STEM Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 1)

4. Why You Should Teach Space

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

I Didn’t Always Want to be an Engineer

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

How to Start an After School STEM Club

Vivify STEM Lessons

Vivify Space Curriculum:

- Mission to Moon: K-5, 6-8, or try our 6-8 Semester-Long STEM Unit

- Mission to Mars: K-5, 6-8, or Mars also has a 6-8 Semester-Long STEM Unit

- Orbital Mission STEM Curriculum Unit (5-8)

Other STEM Resources

Qweebi

Qweebi - Try the Roller Coaster project for FREE!

Aman’s Favorite Book: The Beginning of Infinity

Vivify Research & Publications

Meet the Vivify Team

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMHow Did We All Get Here?Welcome back to the second part of Natasha and Claire’s conversation with the co-founders of Qweebi! In this episode, they shift gears to explore the story behind Qweebi’s creation by diving into the partnership of Aman and Vivek. They’ll uncover how these two visionaries met, what brought them together, and what it’s like to collaborate as co-founders on a mission to transform STEM education. And stay tuned to the end when Aman and Vivek turn the tables to ask Claire and Natasha about their journey as co-founders of Vivify STEM. Qweebi is the first-ever online makerspace that lets teachers run STEM projects across engineering, electronics, and robotics without needing any supplies. All projects are aligned to NGSS standards and designed to hit learning outcomes for grades 3-8. Want to learn more about Qweebi? Try out the Roller Coaster project for FREE!false00:31:331170The Story Behind the Virtual Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 2)fullThe Story Behind the Virtual Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 2)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips169. A Virtual STEM Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 1)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 25 Jan 2025 01:31:01 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/169/virtual-makerspace-qweebi-part-154807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6792dc4c0786f35bbba5cad1Show Summary:

Are you a STEM teacher feeling overwhelmed by limited time, storage, and funding? Then this episode of The STEM Space is for you! Claire and Natasha sit down with the visionary co-founders of Qweebi, a tech company on a mission to revolutionize STEM education. Qweebi is a virtual makerspace where students design, build, and test everything from rovers to rollercoasters in an online environment that mimics real-world physics. This hands-on, engaging experience eliminates the need for physical supplies while fostering creativity and authentic engineering learning. As the first of a two-part series, this episode explores the inspiration behind Qweebi, its innovative features, and how it aligns with STEM learning goals.

Want to learn more about Qweebi? Try out the Roller Coaster project for FREE!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A

115. How to Design a Makerspace

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Must Haves for a STEM Lab

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Astro-Rover Space Science & Engineering Design Unit

Roller Coaster STEM Activity - K-5 or 5-8

Other STEM Resources

Qweebi

Qweebi - Try the Roller Coaster project for FREE!

The Beginning of Infinity

Rube Goldberg Contests (challenges)

Vivify STEM Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMA solution to limited time, storage, and funding!Claire and Natasha sit down with the visionary co-founders of Qweebi, a tech company on a mission to revolutionize STEM education. Qweebi is a virtual makerspace where students design, build, and test everything from rovers to rollercoasters in an online environment that mimics real-world physics. This hands-on, engaging experience eliminates the need for physical supplies while fostering creativity and authentic engineering learning. As the first of a two-part series, this episode explores the inspiration behind Qweebi, its innovative features, and how it aligns with STEM learning goals.false00:30:271169A Virtual STEM Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 1)fullA Virtual STEM Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 1)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips168. Winter Woes: Saving the Mission to Mars PlantClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 10 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2025/168/winter-woes54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67803be637b0670d73b6fb3bShow Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire is on a mission to rescue her Mission to Mars plant (yes, it's a real plant!), while Natasha rants about the relentless fire alarms in the dorm and the frigid New England winter. Along the way, we find connections to STEM everywhere - from a freaky football pass that seems to defy physics to Claire’s plant that drips blood! We also chat about our resolutions for the New Year, sharing strategies for building positive routines and behaviors for our kids and classrooms as the new semester kicks off.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

154. How to Make Space for STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

5 Tips for Teaching STEM With Robots

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Lessons (*no plants included, sadly)

Plants in Space*

Mission to Mars STEM Curriculum*

Sphero Robotic Programming Maze Challenge - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Other STEM Resources

Mission to Mars plant

America's Public Lands Explained

Hot Springs - National Park Service

BYU - Idaho | The Big Bang Theory - Sheldon Trains Penny (2:45)

Sphero Global Challenge | STEM & Robotics Competitions

SEEC: Space Exploration Educators Conference

Email us your questions and more!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY X

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMResolutions for the New YearIn this episode of The STEM Space, Claire is on a mission to rescue her Mission to Mars plant (yes, it's a real plant!), while Natasha rants about the relentless fire alarms in the dorm and the frigid New England winter. Along the way, we find connections to STEM everywhere - from a freaky football pass that seems to defy physics to Claire’s plant that drips blood! We also chat about our resolutions for the New Year, sharing strategies for building positive routines and behaviors for our kids and classrooms as the new semester kicks off.false00:26:381168Winter Woes: Saving the Mission to Mars PlantfullWinter Woes: Saving the Mission to Mars Plantinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips167. STEM Educator Turned CEO ft. Liz Gallo of WhyMakerClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 20 Dec 2024 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/167/whymaker54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6761b31933c6974be66267b0Show Summary:

Natasha chats with a former STEM educator turned founder and CEO of WhyMaker, Liz Gallo. Liz is on a mission to design the future of education, where teachers act as learning engineers, equipping their students to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Listen in as they chat about her decade-long experience as a technology and engineering educator and her transition to being the leader of WhyMaker, which has made a tangible impact on over 15,000 educators worldwide, inspiring a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers. She also shares her vision for STEM education, not just as an elective, but as a transformative approach to school. Part of this vision is bringing the real-world into the classroom, such as her work in partnering with companies in the sustainability sector to engage students with cutting-edge technologies, explore career pathways in clean energy, and contribute to solutions for global sustainability challenges. They also discuss her book, Educators Guide to Design Thinking, a practical workbook to implement project-based design experiences with your students.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

122. How to Motivate Students

166. Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSI

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not All STEM is Equal: The 3 Stages of STEM

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Brick by Brick: Intro to Criteria and Constraints

Vivify STEM Lessons

Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM (Back to School STEM Activities)

Growth Mindset Back to School Rocket About Me Activity

Tower STEM Challenges: 5 Icebreaker Activities

Brick by Brick: Intro to Criteria and Constraints - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!

Editable Budget Sheets - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!

Other STEM Resources

WhyMaker | Website, Facebook, Instagram, or X

LEGO Architecture Empire State Building

New York State Department of Education CTE requirements

Book | Educators Guide to Design Thinking

Arduino

Email us your questions and more!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

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VIVIFY X

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]]>Vivify STEMTeachers as learning engineersNatasha chats with a former STEM educator turned founder and CEO of WhyMaker, Liz Gallo. Liz is on a mission to design the future of education, where teachers act as learning engineers, equipping their students to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.false00:34:301167STEM Educator turned CEO ft. Liz Gallo of WhyMakerfullSTEM Educator turned CEO ft. Liz Gallo of WhyMakerinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips166. Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSIClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 13 Dec 2024 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/166/why-math-matters-nmsi54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67588265559d8810f8b1fc1aShow Summary:

This episode of The STEM Space is all about math! Math might be the M in STEM, but it doesn’t always get the attention it deserves in K-12 STEM education efforts. Yet, its role is critical—not just for academic success, but for preparing students to solve real-world problems.

To help us understand why math matters and how it can drive opportunity for students, Natasha speaks with Jeremy Anderson, CEO of the National Math + Science Initiative. Jeremy leads a dedicated team working to close opportunity gaps and expand college access through rigorous STEM programs. With over 25 years of experience in education policy, Jeremy brings deep insights into how math education can empower students and transform lives.

In their conversation, they’ll discuss NMSI’s mission, the importance of math education, and how connecting it to real-world challenges can boost student interest and engagement.

About Jeremy:

Before joining NMSI in August 2023, Jeremy served as the president of the Education Commission of the States (ECS), where he expanded the organization's policy presence and worked with state and federal leaders on various policy initiatives. Jeremy also has a background in strategic communications, political campaigns, public affairs, and government relations, which enables him to effectively advocate for NMSI's proven STEM solutions and partnerships. He is passionate about advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in education, and is proud to work alongside NMSI's talented and diverse staff and partners.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers

117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?

161. Making Tech Education Accessible ft. imagi Co-Founders

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

7 Activities Featuring Women in STEM History

Not All STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Incorporating Engineering Practices into Texas Science Classrooms

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

Vivify STEM Lessons

Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge

Women in STEM History Engineering Challenges

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

STEM Careers BINGO Game: K-5 or 5-12

Other STEM Resources

LinkedIn | Jeremy Anderson

National Math + Science Initiative

- Get Involved

CNBC | The 10 most valuable college degrees—they're all in STEM

Texas Regional Pathways Network

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY X

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMFocusing on the M in STEMTo help us understand why math matters and how it can drive opportunity for students, Natasha speaks with Jeremy Anderson, CEO of the National Math + Science Initiative. Jeremy leads a dedicated team working to close opportunity gaps and expand college access through rigorous STEM programs. With over 25 years of experience in education policy, Jeremy brings deep insights into how math education can empower students and transform lives. false00:26:151166Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSIfullWhy Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSIinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips165. Tears & Teaching: How to Prepare for EngineeringClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 06 Dec 2024 18:52:48 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/165/prepare-for-engineering54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6750b75ee5b5544e9cbaeab9Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha catch up after a Thanksgiving holiday break filled with family, fun, and a little bit of chaos! They also share creative ways to STEMify your Elf on the Shelf before they pick back up on the last episode’s discussion of what they found to be their most valuable experiences to prepare for engineering. (Spoiler Alert: it wasn’t design challenges!)

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A

129. A Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based Teaching

Is Teaching Engineering Bad?

- Episode 137 (Part 1)

- Episode 139 (Part 2)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Get Your Elf Off That Shelf with STEM

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Elf STEM

- Elf Sledding Adventure

- Elf Zip Line

- Elf Pendulum Adventure

Intro to Science & Engineering: STEM Critical Thinking Challenges

Other STEM Resources

Vivify Research & Publications

YouTube: SHARING HER PASSION | Tatiana Erukhimova Ph.D. (Texas A&M Physics Professor - videos went viral for physics phenomenon demonstrations)

Gain access to Vivify’s expanding lesson library when you become a member of The STEM Space!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMFamily, fun, & CHAOS Claire and Natasha catch up after a Thanksgiving holiday break filled with family, fun, and a little bit of chaos! They also share creative ways to STEMify your Elf on the Shelf before they pick back up on the last episode’s discussion of what they found to be their most valuable experiences to prepare for engineering. (Spoiler Alert: it wasn’t design challenges!)false00:26:311165Tears & Teaching: How to Prepare for EngineeringfullTears & Teaching: How to Prepare for Engineeringinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&AClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 22 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/164/stem-overload54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:673e72db6bc3317e47336724Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha tackle your questions from The STEM Space Facebook group! Listen as they dive into everything—from seasoned teachers venting about how STEM feels watered down to newer teachers feeling totally overwhelmed or unsure about engineering— and chat through your comments, share their thoughts, and hopefully give you some tips and encouragement along the way!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

Is Teaching Engineering Bad? - Part 1 and Part 2

145. How to Create an Engineering Lesson

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not All STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

7 Ideas for Teaching Social Studies with STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons

Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM (Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity)

Drag Device

Scope & Sequence - FREE - K-5 or 6-8

Find Your Student Sparks - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!

Heavy Lift Rocket Challenge

Other STEM Resources

The STEM Space Facebook group

U.S. Department of Education | Gifted education and STEM: A Thematic Review (PDF)

Vivify STEM Recommendations

Need help? Email us at info@vivifystem.com

The STEM Space Explorer Library - FREE

Vivify STEM Research & Publications

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMyour questions from The STEM Space Facebook group!Claire and Natasha tackle your questions from The STEM Space Facebook group! Listen as they dive into everything—from seasoned teachers venting about how STEM feels watered down to newer teachers feeling totally overwhelmed or unsure about engineering— and chat through your comments, share their thoughts, and hopefully give you some tips and encouragement along the way!false00:27:311164STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&AfullSTEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&Ainfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips163. Brain Building Box: What's Inside the Moon?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 16 Nov 2024 03:36:26 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/163/brain-building-box54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6733ae7dceada57806dde0eaShow Summary:

From Sphero chariot races to a straw rocket challenge between engineers and educators, Claire and Natasha reflect on the K-12 Educator Institute, a workshop they facilitated as part of the Great Minds In STEM conference. They share ideas and big takeaways for facilitating STEM PD for teachers. Claire also tortures Natasha with questions from her students' “Brain Building Box!”

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

125. Constraints in a STEM Classroom

119. Think Like A Scientist

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Pipe Cleaner STEM Challenge

Basics of Sphero Robotics + 3 Awesome Sphero STEM Activities (includes Sphero Chariots)

STEM Family Night Planning Guide

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Tower Challenges

STEM Space Lander Challenge - K-5 or 6-8

Lunar Crater STEM Challenge

Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, STEM Activity Instructions, Posters

Mission to Moon Semester STEM Unit + Moon Colony Project! (includes Roller Coaster Challenge and Moon Planning game)

Mission to Mars Semester STEM Unit + Mars Colony Project! (includes Lander Challenge and Mars Planning game)

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - K-2 or 3-10

Roller Coaster STEM Challenge - K-5 or 5-8

Brick by Brick: Introduction to Criteria and Constraints - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!

Other STEM Resources

Great Minds In STEM

Northrop Grumman

NASA Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC)

Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEMGreat Minds in STEM Conference TakeawaysFrom Sphero chariot races to a straw rocket challenge between engineers and educators, Claire and Natasha reflect on the K-12 Educator Institute, a workshop they facilitated as part of the Great Minds In STEM conference. They share ideas and big takeaways for facilitating STEM PD for teachers. Claire also tortures Natasha with questions from her students' “Brain Building Box!” false00:22:571163Brain Building Box: What's Inside the Moon?fullBrain Building Box: What's Inside the Moon?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips162. EcoInsight: A 10th Grader’s Vision for Sustainability ft. Tara TonyClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Nov 2024 11:45:05 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/162/ecoinsight54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67228021a35744482176d74cShow Summary:

Natasha chats with Tara Tony, a high school student passionate about environmental advocacy. Tara serves as a student commissioner on the Energy and Environmental Sustainability Commission (EESC) in Milpitas, California. She shares her experiences from the EESC, where she became inspired to launch EcoInsight, an online platform aimed at raising awareness of biodiversity loss.

Tara also discusses the EcoInnovate Competition, a nationwide challenge for middle and high school students to submit innovative conservation projects. Learn more about this initiative and how to get involved at EcoInnovate. As of posting, current competition deadline is November 15th, 2024.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

132. The Focus of an Engineering Design Competition

108. A STEM Challenge with Earthquakes ft. Kristina Ohl

66. Eco-House Sustainable STEM with Kristina Ohl

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Exploring National Parks with a STEM Challenge!

Ocean STEM Activities

Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project

Design A School Garden STEM Project

Vivify STEM Lessons

Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project (Environmental Science 5E PBL)

Oil Spill STEM Challenge

Ocean Debris Engineering Design STEM Challenge

Design a School Garden: STEM Project Guide

Other STEM Resources

EcoInnovate

Milpitas Energy & Environmental Sustainability Commission

Email us your questions and more!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEMhow a 10th grader is making a difference with EcoInsightNatasha chats with Tara Tony, a high school student passionate about environmental advocacy. Tara serves as a student commissioner on the Energy and Environmental Sustainability Commission (EESC) in Milpitas, California. She shares her experiences from the EESC, where she became inspired to launch EcoInsight, an online platform aimed at raising awareness of biodiversity loss. Tara also discusses the EcoInnovate Competition, a nationwide challenge for middle and high school students to submit innovative conservation projects. Learn more about this initiative and how to get involved at EcoInnovate (eco-insight.org/competition). As of posting, current competition deadline is November 15th, 2024.false00:23:001162EcoInsight: A 10th Grader’s Vision for Sustainability ft. Tara TonyfullEcoInsight: A 10th Grader’s Vision for Sustainability ft. Tara Tonyinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips161. Making Tech Education Accessible ft. imagi Co-FoundersClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 25 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/161/imagi54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:67194947017d09647c581eacShow Summary:

Natasha sits down for a chat with Dora Palfi and Beatrice Ionascu, co-founders of imagi, a Swedish EdTech startup dedicated to closing the gender gap in tech by sparking a passion for technology in all children through fun and inclusive computer science education.

Dora and Beatrice met while studying at NYU Abu Dhabi and went on to work in various large tech companies. Their experiences, often as the only women in male-dominated tech environments, fueled their desire to create imagi, with the vision of transforming the tech industry and broadening access to computer science education, particularly for underrepresented groups.

imagi's AI-powered Python programming platform equips educators—regardless of their coding background—with the tools to teach a dynamic, engaging curriculum to middle school students, promoting inclusivity across gender and race. After just one hour of coding with imagi, one in three girls and non-binary students report increased interest in coding, and 85% of all students find the experience "fun" after their first lesson. Having reached more than 300,000 students in 140 countries, cultivating a vibrant global community of young coders who have collectively generated over 19 million lines of Python code, imagi is making strides in reshaping the future of tech education globally.

For more details, visit imagi's website.

You can use the Vivify promo code for 15% off a purchase of imagiCharms! Just use vivifystem15 or this link.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

98. Who is an Engineer?

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

122. How to Motivate Students

121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science

114. Strategies for a Teacherpreneur

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Motivation: How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (Break down stereotypes!)

Picture a STEM Professional Critical Thinking Worksheet

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge - Women in STEM History Activity

Starter STEM Activities Engineering Challenges

Other STEM Resources

imagi

weSTEM @ NYUAD

Girls outperform boys at school, yet still shy away from STEM — Download the full study here: Hands Up for Gender Equality: A Major Study into Confidence and Career Intentions of Adolescent Girls and Boys

Give P's a Chance: Projects, Peers, Passion, Play by M Resnick (PDF)

Scratch - Imagine, Program, Share

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

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]]>Vivify STEMInspiring a new generation of diverse tech talentNatasha sits down for a chat with Dora Palfi and Beatrice Ionascu, founders of Swedish EdTech imagi, which bridges the gender gap in tech by offering fun and inclusive computer science education. Their AI-powered platform empowers educators to teach engaging coding lessons, inspiring a new generation of diverse tech talent. Dora and Beatrice met while studying at NYU Abu Dhabi before adventuring on to work in various large tech companies. Their experiences, often as the only women in male-dominated tech environments, fueled their desire to create imagi, with the vision of transforming the tech industry and broadening access to computer science education, particularly for underrepresented groups. imagi's AI-powered Python programming platform equips educators—regardless of their coding background—with the tools to teach a dynamic, engaging curriculum to middle school students, promoting inclusivity across gender and race. After just one hour of coding with imagi, one in three girls and non-binary students report increased interest in coding, and 85% of all students find the experience "fun" after their first lesson. imagi has reached more than 300,000 students in 140 countries, cultivating a vibrant global community of young coders who have collectively generated over 19 million lines of Python code! imagi is making strides in reshaping the future of tech education globally. For more details, visit imagi's website.false00:44:491161Making Tech Education Accessible ft. imagi Co-FoundersfullMaking Tech Education Accessible ft. imagi Co-Foundersinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips160. How Does a Toilet Work?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 18 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/160/how-does-a-toilet-work54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:670e85c72aea3107ef85dddeShow Summary:

Claire reflects on the success of her recent Star Party event. She also shares a Show and Tell activity with her STEM students, which is a great way to practice communication skills. Claire even participates by bringing a surprising object from home—something you use every day, but probably not what you're expecting! Tune in to find out what it is. Meanwhile, Natasha, as always, delves into the broader implications of integrating engineering into the classroom, exploring the challenges of teaching it as a profession versus as a subject.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

159. A Vision for K-12 Engineering Education

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

156. Would an Engineer Solve Your Problem?

137. Is Teaching Engineering Bad?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Vivify STEM Lessons

Explore the Universe - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library

Simple Machines Toy Factory STEM Challenge

Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit

STEM Catapult Challenge

STEM Careers BINGO Game: K-5 or 5-12

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Other STEM Resources

Fort Worth Astronomical Society: Star Parties

NASA | Messier 57 (better known as the Ring Nebula)

Space.com | Draconid meteor shower 2024: When, where & how to see it

Space Teams

wikiHow | How Does a Toilet Work? A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Gain access to Vivify’s expanding lesson library when you become a member of The STEM Space!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEMA successful Star Party, Show & Tell, and more surprises!Claire reflects on the success of her recent Star Party event. She also shares a Show and Tell activity with her STEM students, which is a great way to practice communication skills. Claire even participates by bringing a surprising object from home—something you use every day, but probably not what you're expecting! Tune in to find out what it is. Meanwhile, Natasha, as always, delves into the broader implications of integrating engineering into the classroom, exploring the challenges of teaching it as a profession versus as a subject.false00:25:551160How Does a Toilet Work?fullHow Does a Toilet Work?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips159. A Vision for K-12 Engineering EducationClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 04 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/159/vision-for-k12-engineering54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66fda35204e6ac79cdcebb51Show Summary:

Claire is preparing for her first-ever Star Party family event, and Natasha gives her tips on everything from using a sky app to making constellation-themed hot chocolate! We also dive into a new Framework for Engineering Learning that the Vivify team is developing. What are the main learning goals of engineering? What does a year-long STEM program look like? Listen in for our vision for K-12 STEM education.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

126. Star Parties & Thematic Classroom Attire

156. Would an Engineer Solve Your Problems?

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not All STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Vivify STEM Lessons

Explore the Universe - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library

Astronaut Training: 4 C’s of STEM

Heart Rate Ratios and Graphing Activity

STEM Tower Challenges

STEM Choice Boards Bundle: Career, Field Trip, & Space Missions

STEM Careers BINGO Game: K-5 or 5-12

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Mission to Moon or Mission to Mars Semester STEM Unit

Other STEM Resources

SkyView® App - Google Play or Apple

Fort Worth Astronomical Society: Star Parties

Vivify STEM Research & Publications

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMStar Party & a framework for engineering learningClaire is preparing for her first-ever Star Party family event, and Natasha gives her tips on everything from using a sky app to making constellation-themed hot chocolate! We also dive into a new Framework for Engineering Learning that the Vivify team is developing. What are the main learning goals of engineering? What does a year-long STEM program look like? Listen in for our vision for K-12 STEM education.false00:25:111159A Vision for K-12 Engineering EducationfullA Vision for K-12 Engineering Educationinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips158. Speedy STEM - What to Teach When You Don't Have TimeClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 27 Sep 2024 13:46:09 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/158/speedy-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66f4822e41b2107eb0be7778Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire discuss a new framework for teaching STEM. Hear about resources for intentional and authentic learning experiences in STEM and advice on what to focus on when you are short on time.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

150. Screw the Standards! Or Should We? ft. Dr. Pedersen

74. Rate My STEM Lesson

136. Cool Lessons on Heat Transfer

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?

Vivify STEM Lessons

Roller Coaster STEM Challenge - K-5 or 5-8

Drag Device STEM Challenge

Space Lander STEM Challenge - K-5 or 5-8

Heat Shield Challenge

Other STEM Resources

Vivify Research & Publications - includes parts of Dr. Natasha’s dissertation: Pre-College Engineering: Perspectives of Engineering Faculty as well as Learning Goals in Middle School Engineering: A Systematic Review and Comparison with NGSS and ASEE Frameworks

Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEM Intentional and authentic learning experiences in STEM Natasha and Claire discuss a new framework for teaching STEM. Hear about resources for intentional and authentic learning experiences in STEM and advice on what to focus on when you are short on time.false00:26:061158Speedy STEM - What to Teach When You Don't Have TimefullSpeedy STEM - What to Teach When You Don't Have Timeinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips157. Training Astronauts ft. NASA's Ike TheriotClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 20 Sep 2024 17:18:54 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/157/training-astronauts-ft-nasas-ike-theriot54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66ec859ea105b1602701dc0dShow Summary:

In this episode, Claire speaks with Ike Theriot, a NASA EVA Flight Controller and Astronaut Instructor, who highlights the power of curiosity and the importance of following your passions in the space industry. He shares personal experiences in working for NASA and training astronauts, showing how a love for exploration shaped his career. Tune in to discover how pursuing your interests can open unexpected doors in science, technology, and beyond.

Ike currently serves as an EVA Flight Controller and Astronaut Instructor in the Flight Operations Directorate at Johnson Space Center. He supports real-time ISS EVA operations by planning EVA’s, training astronauts to perform those EVA’s, and supporting execution from Mission Control as a flight controller. Ike also develops and trains Artemis EVA operational concepts for navigation, timeline management, and suit and tool use for lunar surface operations.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

153. Don’t Tell Your Kid to be an Engineer

73. Does STEM Track?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Astronaut Training and the 4 C's of STEM

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM

Intro to Coding: STEM Activity

Musical Instrument STEM Challenge

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Mission to Moon Middle School STEM Curriculum Unit

Other STEM Resources

NASA | Meet the Teams Leading Moonwalking Test Mission (ft. Ike Theriot)

NASA | Artemis

NASA | STEM Resources and Opportunities

Email us your questions and more!

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]]>Vivify STEMThoughts from a NASA EVA Flight Controller and Astronaut Instructor In this episode, Claire speaks with Ike Theriot, a NASA EVA Flight Controller and Astronaut Instructor, who highlights the power of curiosity and the importance of following your passions in the space industry. He shares personal experiences in working for NASA and training astronauts, showing how a love for exploration shaped his career. Tune in to discover how pursuing your interests can open unexpected doors in science, technology, and beyond. Ike currently serves as an EVA Flight Controller and Astronaut Instructor in the Flight Operations Directorate at Johnson Space Center. He supports real-time ISS EVA operations by planning EVA’s, training astronauts to perform those EVA’s, and supporting execution from Mission Control as a flight controller. Ike also develops and trains Artemis EVA operational concepts for navigation, timeline management, and suit and tool use for lunar surface operations.false00:32:151157Training Astronauts ft. NASA's Ike TheriotfullTraining Astronauts ft. NASA's Ike Theriotinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips156. Would an Engineer Solve Your Problem?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 13 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/156/would-an-engineer-solve-your-problem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66e1c5fa4ac5b96c27d1998bShow Summary:

Natasha and Claire discuss the importance of teaching engineering in the context of real-world engineering challenges. They work to define what constitutes a true engineering problem and highlight the significance of providing students with authentic engineering experiences that mimic the complexities and challenges of the real world.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?

Vivify STEM Lessons

Ocean Debris Engineering Design STEM Challenge

Design a School Garden: STEM Project Guide

STEM Space Lander Challenge | K-5 or 5-8

Space Capsule Heat Shield 5E Engineering Challenge (MS-PS3-3)

Other STEM Resources

MIT AeroAstro

MIT Residential Scholars FAQ

List of “Engineering Problems”

Strawberry DNA Experiment

Taco Party

News Article: Normal Fire Department Uses Tacos To Educate On Weather Lingo (And Go Viral)

The “Poop” Rule: Instead of asking "Does it spark joy?" try this.

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

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]]>Vivify STEMteaching engineering in the context of real-world engineering.Natasha and Claire discuss the importance of teaching engineering in the context of rel-world engineering challenges. They work to define what constitutes a true engineering problem and highlight the significance of providing students with authentic engineering experiences that mimic the complexities and challenges of the real world.false00:25:161156Would an Engineer Solve Your Problem?fullWould an Engineer Solve Your Problem?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips155. Your Greatest Challenges in Teaching STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 06 Sep 2024 21:03:33 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/155/your-greatest-challenges-in-teaching-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66d8b11af1ed8928bad7194aShow Summary:

What is your greatest challenge as a STEM educator? In this episode, Claire and Natasha respond to concerns from K-12 STEM teachers who posted their challenges in The STEM Space Facebook group. We tackle everything from getting kids to accept math is part of science, overcoming learned helplessness, and juggling hundreds of students a week. Listen in for this rapid-fire session!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

135. What Should Students Learn? (“pontificate” episode)

122. How to Motivate Students

146. Is It Squishy? How to Build Engineering Intuition

73. Does STEM Track?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward (includes photos of Claire’s tower failure)

Football STEM Challenge!

Vivify STEM Lessons

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (breaking stereotypes)

Newspaper STEM Challenges

Heart Rate Ratios & Graphing Activity

Math and Sports Activity Bundle: Ratios and Proportions

Brain Safety STEM Challenge: Design a Football Helmet

FREE Scope & Sequence - Elementary School | Middle School

FREE Interview Questions for STEM Professionals

Other STEM Resources

The STEM Space Facebook Group

“Pontificate” clip | Vivify TikTok

“If I Built a Car” by Chris Van Dusen | Amazon Affiliate link

Wildlife Discovery Trunks (Texas Only, but you can check with your state’s wildlife association)

Gain access to Vivify’s expanding lesson library when you become a member of The STEM Space!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEMYour concerns, answered!What is your greatest challenge as a STEM educator? In this episode, Claire and Natasha respond to concerns from K-12 STEM teachers who posted their challenges in The STEM Space Facebook group. We tackle everything from getting kids to accept math is part of science, overcoming learned helplessness, and juggling hundreds of students a week. Listen in for this rapid-fire session!false00:25:461155Your Greatest Challenges in Teaching STEMfullYour Greatest Challenges in Teaching STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips154. How to Make Space for STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 30 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/154/how-to-make-space-for-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66ce14aa39d27d2a7022676cShow Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha answer a question from a listener: “For those of you who teach multiple grades in a day, how do you organize all your stuff that goes with each class?” Claire, a K-8 STEM teacher, gives us all her tips and tricks for managing the STEM supply chaos!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science

44. How Do You Manage Your STEM Classroom?

125. Constraints in a STEM Classroom

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

Top 10 Back to School STEM Tools!

Vivify STEM Lessons

Back to School STEM: 6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities (includes pipeline challenge)

FREE - Editable Budget Sheet for Engineering Design Challenges

Roller Coaster STEM Challenge (K-5 or 6-8)

FREE - Editable Teacher Slides for Engineering Design Challenges

Newspaper STEM Challenges

Other STEM Resources

Don’t Wake the Dragon by Bianca Schulze

FREE - Space Club

Communities in Schools - San Antonio (CISSA)

Facebook: The STEM Space

Claire’s STEM Organization finds:

- Shelf brackets

- Plastic bins

- STEM composition notebook

- More plastic bins

- Makerspace bins

- Vivify Amazon Storefront

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEMTips and tricks for managing the STEM supply chaos!In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha answer a question from a listener: “For those of you who teach multiple grades in a day, how do you organize all your stuff that goes with each class?” Claire, a K-8 STEM teacher, gives us all her tips and tricks for managing the STEM supply chaos!false00:26:051154How to Make Space for STEMfullHow to Make Space for STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips153. Don't Tell Your Kid to be an EngineerClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 23 Aug 2024 14:40:45 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/153/dont-tell-your-kid-to-be-an-engineer54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66c4d54100b8b2010953bef6Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire navigates the whirlwind of back-to-school season, sharing favorite moments from her K-8 STEM classroom, including a fun bar graph icebreaker that got her students engaged. Natasha reflects on her daughter's transition to 1st grade and how she loves to find math in everyday life. Together, they discuss how STEM classrooms can bring subjects like math and science to life, inspiring a love for learning. Many define STEM as preparing students for in-demand jobs, but we value the importance of nurturing students’ passions, using real-world connections in the STEM classroom to help them better understand the world around them, rather than focusing solely on job skills.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers

144. Another Year of Smashing STEM

122. How to Motivate Students

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities (includes Sparks!)

How to Teach STEM Through A Story

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Careers BINGO Game for K-5 or 6-8

Technology Choice Board Bundle

Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM (Back to School STEM Activities)

Alphabet STEM - Introduce PreK-1 to STEM!

Other STEM Resources

Vivify TikTok: Claire’s STEM Classroom Tour (ft. the Nature Wall)

Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

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]]>Vivify STEMClaire navigates the whirlwind of back-to-school season, sharing favorite moments from her K-8 STEM classroom, including a fun bar graph icebreaker that got her students engaged.In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire navigates the whirlwind of back-to-school season, sharing favorite moments from her K-8 STEM classroom, including a fun bar graph icebreaker that got her students engaged. Natasha reflects on her daughter's transition to 1st grade and how she loves to find math in everyday life. Together, they discuss how STEM classrooms can bring subjects like math and science to life, inspiring a love for learning. Many define STEM as preparing students for in-demand jobs, but we value the importance of nurturing students’ passions, using real-world connections in the STEM classroom to help them better understand the world around them, rather than focusing solely on job skills.false00:24:321153Don't Tell Your Kid to be an EngineerfullDon't Tell Your Kid to be an Engineerinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips152. Claire’s STEM Classroom Finds for Back to SchoolClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 02 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/152/claires-stem-classroom-finds-for-back-to-school54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66a93e40e0ec65723fe8e655Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha recounts a dramatic story from her trip to Greece, while Claire hopes she's finally learned a valuable lesson. We also discuss gearing up for the back-to-school season including some unique finds from Claire’s Amazon wish list for her STEM classroom!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

98. Who is an Engineer?

116. Back to School Icebreakers

90. We Launched a Weather Balloon

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Must Haves for a STEM Lab

Get Your STEM Classroom Ready for Back to School!

Vivify STEM Lessons

Back to School STEM: 6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities

Desk Name Tags / Desk Name Plates STEM Activity for Back to School

Growth Mindset Back to School Rocket About Me Activity

FREE! STEM Scope & Sequence - K-5 or 6-8

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Other STEM Resources

Traditional Magiritsa recipe

- Claire’s Finds! (Can also be found in Vivify’s Amazon Storefront)

- Cutting mat

- Knife pen

- Water bottle holder

- Hardware storage organizer

- Space band-aids 

- Non-stick silicone mat for hot glue guns

- Hot glue gun finger protectors

- Raingutter Regatta inflatable raceway

- One-way mirror window film

Vivify’s TikTok | Claire’s Classroom Moon DIY

Vivify’s TikTok | Weather Balloon Launch

Sphero Global Challenge

Email us your questions and more!

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]]>Vivify STEMUnique classroom finds plus misadventures in Greece!In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha recounts a dramatic story from her trip to Greece, while Claire hopes she's finally learned a valuable lesson. We also discuss gearing up for the back-to-school season including some unique finds from Claire’s Amazon wish list for her STEM classroom!false00:30:521152Claire's STEM Classroom Finds for Back to SchoolfullClaire's STEM Classroom Finds for Back to Schoolinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips151. How to Exercise Engineering Science SkillsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 27 Jul 2024 03:42:49 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/151/how-to-exercise-engineering-science-skills54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66a29f553bbb145b7a65b039Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha continue their discussions with Dr. Rachelle Pedersen on best practices in STEM education. Hear how she gets students to discover engineering design criteria and other ways you can engage your students in developing engineering skills. Accept the challenge with us to highlight the skills and stories of real engineers with our free interview questions and tune in to find out what we are doing with it!

Dr. Rachelle Pedersen is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education at Texas Tech University.

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]]>Vivify STEMShare stories of real engineersClaire and Natasha continue their discussions with Dr. Rachelle Pedersen on best practices in STEM education. Hear how she gets students to discover engineering design criteria and other ways you can engage your students in developing engineering skills. Accept the challenge with us to highlight the skills and stories of real engineers with our free interview questions and tune in to find out what we are doing with it! Dr. Rachelle Pedersen is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education at Texas Tech University.false00:26:411151How to Exercise Engineering Science SkillsfullHow to Exercise Engineering Science Skillsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips150. Screw the Standards! Or Should We? ft. Dr. PedersenClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 19 Jul 2024 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/150/screw-the-standards-or-should-we54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6692d27c4e0fd33a4da7ba9cShow Summary:

Claire and Natasha have another chat with Dr. Rachelle Pedersen on how STEM teachers should incorporate the engineering standards in NGSS and beyond. Gain insight from the perspective of three engineers with research-backed education philosophies on what your students need to know about engineering in K-12. The answer may surprise you! Tune in to hear strategies and ideas for providing engineering experiences and building intuition with your students.

Dr. Rachelle Pedersen is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education at Texas Tech University.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

149. Moving Beyond Design Challenges ft. Dr. Pedersen

137. Is Teaching Engineering Bad?

98. Who is an Engineer?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Vivify STEM Lessons

FREE STEM Scope & Sequence for K-5 or 6-8

Space Lander STEM Challenge (K-5 or 6-8)

Drag Device STEM Challenge

Ancient Greece Simple Machines STEM Challenge

Space Capsule Heat Shield Challenge

Other STEM Resources

Teaching Texas | Podcast on Spotify

YouTube | Vivify STEM - STEM Career Chats

Powell's Books | The World's Largest Independent Bookstore

Book: "How Things Work" by Michael Dahl seems to actually be out of print! :(

Book: How Nearly Everything Was Invented (Amazon affiliate link)

Equipped for Life: Gendered Technical Training and Consumerism in Home Economics, 1920-1980

About Lillian Gilbreth

HowStuffWorks NOW | Podcast on Spotify

Become a member of The STEM Space!

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]]>Vivify STEMWhat to do with NGSS and other standards for STEMClaire and Natasha have another chat with Dr. Rachelle Pedersen on how STEM teachers should incorporate the engineering standards in NGSS and beyond. Gain insight from the perspective of three engineers with research-backed education philosophies on what your students need to know about engineering in K-12. The answer may surprise you! Tune in to hear strategies and ideas for providing engineering experiences and building intuition with your students. Dr. Rachelle Pedersen is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education at Texas Tech University.false00:40:041150Screw the Standards! Or Should We? ft. Dr. PedersenfullScrew the Standards! Or Should We? ft. Dr. Pederseninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips149. Moving Beyond Design Challenges ft. Dr. PedersenClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 05 Jul 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/149/moving-beyond-design-challenges54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6684636cef93304909b84998Show Summary:

Natasha is joined by her former classmate Dr. Rachelle Pedersen, an engineer turned educator who is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education at Texas Tech University. Natasha and Rachelle reflect on their time at the American Society of Engineering Education Conference, including how to move beyond repetitive engineering design challenges. Rachelle and Natasha are also founding board members of the Cosmic Leap Foundation which is now offering Space Club curriculum and training for FREE to any K-8 educator. 


Learn more at https://www.stemspaceclub.com/

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

133. Conferences You Should Attend in 2024

98. Who is an Engineer?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 STEM Space Activities

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

The Importance of Failure

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Intro to Science & Engineering: STEM Critical Thinking Challenges

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Space Lander Challenge

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

Mission to Moon (K-5 or 6-8) or Mission to Mars (K-5 or 6-8) STEM Curriculum

Other STEM Resources

2024 ASEE Annual Conference

LEGO® Bank Activity

Texas Tech STEM Specialization

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]]>Vivify STEMReflections from ASEENatasha is joined by her former classmate Dr. Rachelle Pedersen, an engineer turned educator who is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education at Texas Tech University. Natasha and Rachelle reflect on their time at the American Society of Engineering Education Conference, including how to move beyond repetitive engineering design challenges. Rachelle and Natasha are also founding board members of the Cosmic Leap Foundation which is now offering Space Club curriculum and training for FREE to any K-8 educator.  Learn more at https://www.stemspaceclub.com/false00:20:401149Moving Beyond Design Challenges ft. Dr. PedersenfullMoving Beyond Design Challenges ft. Dr. Pederseninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips148. AI Tips for Teachers ft. Lauren KellyClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 28 Jun 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/148/ai-tips-for-teachers-ft-lauren-kelly54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:667c66e691e3fd2b75e7dbdbShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha is joined by Vivify STEM Education Specialist Lauren Kelly who shares some exciting updates from a recent computer science conference in Fort Worth, Texas. She shares all about how to use AI in the classroom, an inexpensive technology tool called Micro:Bit, and a brief overview of the newly released technology application standards for Texas Teachers. Lauren is a STEM /GT specialist and instructional coach in Crowly ISD with over 12 years of education experience and loves learning the latest in STEM education to support teachers!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

142. An AI Lesson Gone Awry

111. How AI will Transform Education ft. André Thomas

101. How ChatGPT Will Transform Education

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Best Free AI Tools for Educators

Hour of Code Resources + Unplugged Coding Activity

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Vivify STEM Lessons

Intro to Coding STEM Activity

Welcome Tower Design Challenge

Mission to Moon Semester STEM Unit + Moon Colony Project!

Technology Choice Boards

Other STEM Resources

We Teach_CS Summit 2024

Technology Applications TEKS Changes Coming for 2024-25 School Year

Texas Advanced Computing Center - Professional Development

Rice University Office of STEM Engagement

Micro:Bit

MakeCode.org

Magic School AI

Code.org/AI

Quick Tips

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]]>Vivify STEMArtificial Intelligence, Micro:Bit, and more tech in the classroomIn this episode, Natasha is joined by Vivify STEM Education Specialist Lauren Kelly who shares some exciting updates from a recent computer science conference in Fort Worth, Texas. She shares all about how to use AI in the classroom, an inexpensive technology tool called Micro:Bit, and a brief overview of the newly released technology application standards for Texas Teachers. Lauren is a STEM /GT specialist and instructional coach in Crowly ISD with over 12 years of education experience and loves learning the latest in STEM education to support teachers!false00:24:071148AI Tips for Teachers ft. Lauren KellyfullAI Tips for Teachers ft. Lauren Kellyinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips147. When STEM Heats Up! Summer STEM FailuresClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 21 Jun 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/147/when-stem-heats-up-summer-stem-failures54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:667219a4ec70300bf51a932eShow Summary:

Are you a teacher who has had an amazing experience? What about a lesson gone awry? Did it happen to be weather-related? Things have heated up in Texas as Natasha tells Claire all about an adventure in the summer heat with STEM and how teachers can adapt when things are not exactly going according to plan.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

57. How to Organize a STEM Summer Camp

122. How to Motivate Students

18. What You Should Know About Failure

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Design A School Garden STEM Project

10 Simple Summer STEM Activities

Vivify STEM Lessons

Design a School Garden: STEM Project Guide

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge: K-3 or 4-10

Space Lander STEM Challenge: K-5 or 6-8

Summer STEM Activity Calendar

Solar Oven STEM Challenge

STEM Family Night

Other STEM Resources

George Strait Makes History With Record-Setting Concert At Kyle Field

Air Tractor

TAMU Physics & Engineering Festival

Pitsco Straw Rocket Launcher

New Scouts Badge: Air of the Wolf Adventure for 2024

Camp Howdy

Space Teams

Estes Rockets: Alpha III Launch Set (affiliate link)

Email us your questions and more!

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]]>Vivify STEMA lesson in outreach prepAre you a teacher who has had an amazing experience? What about a lesson gone awry? Did it happen to be weather-related? Things have heated up in Texas as Natasha tells Claire all about an adventure in the summer heat with STEM and how teachers can adapt when things are not exactly going according to plan. false00:28:011147When STEM Heats Up! Summer STEM FailuresfullWhen STEM Heats Up! Summer STEM Failuresinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips146. Is It Squishy? How to Build Engineering IntuitionClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/146/is-it-squishy54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:666a0ce899d015285bad5362Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha continue the conversation around how to build intuition for engineering design challenges. What should happen during the brainstorm phase of a design challenge? How do we intentionally support design decisions, especially around material selection? We also challenge the NGSS focus on design practices and propose a shift towards learning of engineering sciences.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

145. How to Create an Engineering Lesson

129. A Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based Teaching

103. Teaching Light & Breaking Misconceptions

136. Cool Lessons on Heat Transfer

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Engineering in the Science Classroom

The Importance of Failure

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

Density/Buoyancy STEM:

1) Ocean Study: 5E Science Unit (Sink/Float, Salinity, Ocean Layers)

2) STEM Pirate Ship Engineering Challenge (K-5)

3) STEM Sailboat Challenge (4-10)

Drag STEM:

1) Alphabet STEM - Activities for Letter D (PreK - 1)

2) STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge (2-8)

Heat Transfer: Space Capsule Heat Shield 5E Engineering Challenge

STEM Space Lander Challenge

Other STEM Resources

NOAA | The Great Texas Freeze: February 11-20, 2021

University of Wisconsin-Madison | What keeps the water in the pail?

NASA | Newton's Laws of Motion - Glenn Research Center

University of Nevada-Reno | How many states of matter are there? Physics professor shares his thoughts on a surprisingly difficult question

YouTube | Toy Story: “Unidirectional bonding strip!” clip

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]]>Vivify STEMWe are labeling materials wrong!Claire and Natasha continue the conversation around how to build intuition for engineering design challenges. What should happen during the brainstorm phase of a design challenge? How do we intentionally support design decisions, especially around material selection? We also challenge the NGSS focus on design practices and propose a shift towards learning of engineering sciences.false00:32:301146Is It Squishy? How to Build Engineering IntuitionfullIs It Squishy? How to Build Engineering Intuitioninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips145. How to Create an Engineering LessonClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 07 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/145/how-to-create-an-engineering-lesson54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6660bd16a4dff547b00df491Show Summary:

Are you needing to plan an engineering lesson for your K-12 classroom? In this episode of the STEM Space, Natasha and Claire unpack their approach to developing a Stage 2 lesson that centers around the engineering design process. They discuss how to be intentional with science concepts, including the difference between engineering sciences and natural sciences, how to support engineering practices, and ways to integrate real world connections.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

25. Teaching Fads: Should You Have A Makerspace?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

How to Teach STEM Through A Story

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Prosthetic Leg STEM Challenge

Earthquake STEM Challenge

Space Lander STEM Challenge: K-5 or 6-8

Bridge STEM Challenge

Other STEM Resources

Popular Mechanics: Nugget Ice Has a Cult-Like Following. Its Engineering Can Explain Why

Bring Space Club to your school!

NGSS Standard HS-LS2-7 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics

Become a member of The STEM Space!

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]]>Vivify STEMBuilding IntuitionAre you needing to plan an engineering lesson for your K-12 classroom? In this episode of the STEM Space, Natasha and Claire unpack their approach to developing a Stage 2 lesson that centers around the engineering design process. They discuss how to be intentional with science concepts, including the difference between engineering sciences and natural sciences, how to support engineering practices, and ways to integrate real world connections.false00:26:011145How to Create an Engineering LessonfullHow to Create an Engineering Lessoninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips144. Another Year of Smashing STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 31 May 2024 13:37:31 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/144/another-year-of-smashing-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6657a3068260d2062214283cShow Summary:

In this episode of the STEM Space, Claire and Natasha have reached the final day of the 2023-2024 school year! From 3D printed bridges to literally smashing STEM projects, the final days of Claire’s STEM class were dramatic but filled with memorable learning moments. Natasha also celebrates her recent Ph.D. defense and shares some ideas for a summer STEM camp.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

108. A STEM Challenge with Earthquakes ft. Kristina Ohl

55: How to Teach STEM During Women's History Month

122. How to Motivate Students (ft. Claire’s Nature Wall)

90. We Launched a Weather Balloon

57. How to Organize a STEM Summer Camp

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

7 Activities Featuring Women in STEM History

5 Life Science STEM Activities for Elementary

Launching Weather Balloons

Vivify STEM Lessons

Earthquake 5E STEM Challenge

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

Biomimicry STEM Unit

Weather Balloon Project Guide

FREE Scope & Sequence: Elementary School (K-5), Middle School (6-8)

Launchpad (K-5): Mission to Moon or Mission to Mars

Middle School (6-8): Mission to Moon or Mission to Mars

STEM Explorers

Pollinator Hotel STEM Challenge

Weather STEM Hail Protection Challenge

Summer STEM Activity Calendar

Summer Bucket List - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Lesson Library

Other STEM Resources

Congratulate Natasha on her Ph.D. on the Vivify Facebook or Instagram!

NPR: Meet The Geologists Mapping D.C. And All Of Its Faults

Vivify TikTok: Claire’s STEM Classroom Tour (ft. the Nature Wall)

Tinkercad

NASA Looks to Advance 3D Printing Construction Systems for the Moon and Mars

Vivify TikTok: Weather Balloon Launch

Sphero RVR [Vivify STEM Amazon Affiliate Link}

Sphero Global Challenge

FIRST® LEGO® League

Vex Robotics

Space Colony Competition

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]]>Vivify STEMBridges, Summer STEM, and a Ph.DIn this episode of the STEM Space, Claire and Natasha have reached the final day of the 2023-2024 school year! From 3D printed bridges to literally smashing STEM projects, the final days of Claire’s STEM class were dramatic but filled with memorable learning moments. Natasha also celebrates her recent successful Ph.D. defense and shares some ideas for a summer STEM camp.false00:27:331144Another Year of Smashing STEMfullAnother Year of Smashing STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips143. Unusual Donations to a STEM ClassClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 17 May 2024 11:43:51 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/143/unusual-donations-to-a-stem-class54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:66427238559c512f900c4d82Show Summary:

On this episode of The STEM Space, Claire has just returned from a field trip with her STEM students to NASA's Johnson Space Center. She shares stories of meeting an astronaut, origins of ice cream in space, and an amazing tour led by a NASA mission control engineer! While she was away, Natasha hosted the 10th annual Space Colony Competition, where teams from across the globe showcased innovative designs using recycled materials. Speaking of materials, they discuss the most unusual donations parents have contributed to a STEM classroom.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Astronaut Training and the 4 C's of STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons

Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM

STEM Curriculum: Mission to Moon (K-5 and 6-8 versions) or Mission to Mars (K-5 and 6-8 versions)

Summer STEM Calendar Activity

Other STEM Resources

NASA Astronaut Ken Cameron (NASA PDF)

Goosechase

Saturn V at George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park

Vivify STEM YouTube - Career Chat: Patrick Ream (NASA)

NASA Artemis Mission

Space Colony Competition

Quick Tips

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]]>Vivify STEMAstronaut Ice Cream and RecyclablesOn this episode of The STEM Space, Claire has just returned from a field trip with her STEM students to NASA's Johnson Space Center. She shares stories of meeting an astronaut, origins of ice cream in space, and an amazing tour led by a NASA mission control engineer! While she was away, Natasha hosted the 10th annual Space Colony Competition, where teams from across the globe showcased innovative designs using recycled materials. Speaking of materials, they discuss the most unusual donations parents have contributed to a STEM classroom.false00:20:191143Unusual Donations to a STEM ClassfullUnusual Donations to a STEM Classinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips142. An AI Lesson Gone AwryClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 26 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/142/an-ai-lesson-gone-awry54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:662ac1f105997a15709ef488Show Summary:

The STEM Space is back! Natasha and Claire have a quick chat between teaching, traveling, and finishing up a dissertation…it’s been a busy semester, but we have so much to talk about! This episode Claire shares her elaborate STEM sub plans, and Natasha discusses an AI lesson gone wrong.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

“Pontificating” Episode: 135. What Should Students Learn?

111. How AI will Transform Education ft. André Thomas

101. How ChatGPT Will Transform Education

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Sub Plans for a STEM Classroom

Lunar STEM Activities

Exploring National Parks with a STEM Challenge!

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

Best Free AI Tools for Educators

Vivify STEM Lessons

Sub Lesson Templates for a STEM Classroom

Crater Catapults and Moon Science STEM

National Park Research & Design: 5E STEM Project

STEM Explorers: England Pinhole Camera STEM Challenge

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

Other STEM Resources

Harvard University: Formatting Your Dissertation - Length

Vivify on TikTok: "Pontificate"! Look it up! 😂

Tinkercad

STEM CON & Beyond

Microsoft Copilot in Bing

Code.org: AI for Oceans

How to make a Leonardo da Vinci bridge

The STEM Space Facebook Group

Bring Space Club to your school!

Email us your questions and more!

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]]>Vivify STEMHow can AI help you teach?The STEM Space is back! Natasha and Claire have a quick chat between teaching, traveling, and finishing up a dissertation…it’s been a busy semester, but we have so much to talk about! This episode Claire shares her elaborate STEM sub plans and Natasha discusses an AI lesson gone wrong.false00:20:281142An AI Lesson Gone AwryfullAn AI Lesson Gone Awryinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips141. The Insider's Guide to Engineering ft. Luke ZollingerClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 22 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/141/the-insiders-guide-to-engineering-ft-luke-zollinger54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65fb49c3716dbc4cb0e372e5Show Summary:

On today’s episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Luke Zollinger, the author of The Insider’s Guide to Engineering. Luke is a licensed professional engineer in mechanical and civil engineering. He is currently the chief engineer for a research and development company, which involves ballistic and blast testing, extreme forces, and other unconventional things. While working as an engineer, he decided to write this book because it is something he wished he had as a student. Listen in as we discuss Luke’s journey in engineering, how to best engage students in STEM, and insights about the engineering field that will be valuable for teachers and parents preparing engineers of the future.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

98. Who is an Engineer?

127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers

120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM

Is Teaching Engineering Bad? Part 1, Part 2

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Vivify STEM Lessons

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

Roller Coaster STEM Activity

STEM Sailboat Challenge

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Other STEM Resources

DOD Acquisition Life Cycle

Order Luke’s book, The Insider’s Guide to Engineering

Make Magazine

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Luke Zollinger, the author of The Insider’s Guide to Engineering, licensed professional engineer in mechanical and civil engineering, and currently the chief engineer for a R&D company, which involves ballistic and blast testing, extreme forces, and other unconventional things.On today’s episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Luke Zollinger, the author of The Insider’s Guide to Engineering. Luke is a licensed professional engineer in mechanical and civil engineering. He is currently the chief engineer for a research and development company, which involves ballistic and blast testing, extreme forces, and other unconventional things. While working as an engineer, he decided to write this book because it is something he wished he had as a student. Listen in as we discuss Luke’s journey in engineering, how to best engage students in STEM, and insights about the engineering field that will be valuable for teachers and parents preparing engineers of the future.false00:33:041141The Insider's Guide to Engineering ft. Luke ZollingerfullThe Insider's Guide to Engineering ft. Luke Zollingerinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips140. Making STEM Joyful, Rigorous, and Relevant ft. Beyond100KClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 08 Mar 2024 20:46:25 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/140/making-stem-joyful-rigorous-and-relevant-ft-beyond100k54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65e8b4c2b5a6622ad8ee0c00Show Summary:

Natasha chats with Maya Morales Garcia the Chief Program Officer at Beyond100K, an organization working to end the STEM teacher shortage by 2043, especially for those most excluded from STEM opportunities. The conversation covers her journey into STEM education and the importance of developing a positive STEM identity from a young age, especially for young girls. As a former science teacher, Maya also shares her experiences with teaching STEM including a focus of making instruction joyful, rigorous, and relevant. But they also acknowledge the barriers that restrict the best intentions of teachers and the work needed to to improve the cultivation and retention of quality K-12 STEM teachers.

About Maya: Maya Morales Garcia is the CFO at Beyond100K and has an extensive background in both STEM and education, having served as the Science and STEM education lead for Colorado Department of Education and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education for the District of Columbia. Her experience includes teaching 8th-grade science, overseeing standards implementation, leading strategic initiatives in STEM, and cultivating cross-sector stakeholder groups. She holds a bachelor's degree in neuroscience and behavior and an MAT, and is pursuing a doctorate in Education in Leadership for Educational Equity. Maya is dedicated to creating affirming, justice-centered learning environments in STEM.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?

98. Who is an Engineer?

127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Vivify STEM Lessons

“There is space for you in STEM.” Inspirational STEM Classroom Posters

Women in STEM Classroom Posters FREE!!

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge

Tower STEM Challenges

Other STEM Resources

Beyond 100K:

- Facebook 

- Instagram

- Twitter

- LinkedIn (Maya's profile)

Tufts Early Education Programs

PBS Learning Media

NSTA

The STEM Space on Facebook

Become a member of The STEM Space!

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]]>Vivify STEMWhat are the barriers that restrict the best intentions of teachers and the work needed to to improve the cultivation and retention of quality K-12 STEM teachers?Natasha chats with Maya Morales Garcia the Chief Program Officer at Beyond100K, an organization working to end the STEM teacher shortage by 2043, especially for those most excluded from STEM opportunities. The conversation covers her journey into STEM education and the importance of developing a positive STEM identity from a young age, especially for young girls. As a former science teacher, Maya also shares her experiences with teaching STEM including a focus of making instruction joyful, rigorous, and relevant. But they also acknowledge the barriers that restrict the best intentions of teachers and the work needed to to improve the cultivation and retention of quality K-12 STEM teachers.false00:33:161140Making STEM Joyful, Rigorous, and Relevant ft. Beyond100KfullMaking STEM Joyful, Rigorous, and Relevant ft. Beyond100Kinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips139. Is Teaching Engineering Bad? Part 2Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/139/is-teaching-engineering-bad-part-254807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65e118eeb8c64b7517ee2ea9Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha continue the discussion from episode 137 on the frustrations college professors expressed about the way engineering is taught in K-12 education. Many faculty complained that incoming engineering students are not prepared with basic math skills, and students have lots of misconceptions around professional engineering. How does this translate into improving K-12 STEM classrooms? What is the role of a STEM teacher?

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

137. Is Teaching Engineering Bad? (Part 1)

138. Prepare for the Solar Eclipse

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

136. Cool Lessons on Heat Transfer

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Solar Eclipse Party and Activities

Teaching Space Inspires Youth

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning (including Engineering Habits of Mind)

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Vivify STEM Lessons

Simple Machines Toy Factory STEM Challenge

Design a Zoo! 5E STEM Project (Animal Habitats)

Design a Mars Habitat STEM / STEAM Project Guide

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge - Women in STEM History Activity

Tower STEM Challenges

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity (Angles and Ratios)

STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity

Other STEM Resources

The Rube Goldberg Machine Contest®

Tinkercad

NASA, Intuitive Machines Share Images from the Moon, Provide Science Updates

Water & Ices on the Moon - NASA Science

Escape Velocity | Let's Talk Science

The Apollo 15 Hammer-Feather Drop | NASA

Bring Space Club to Your School with Cosmic Leap!

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]]>Vivify STEMWhat is the role of a STEM teacher?Claire and Natasha continue the discussion from episode 137 on the frustrations college professors expressed about the way engineering is taught in K-12 education. Many faculty complained that incoming engineering students are not prepared with basic math skills, and students have lots of misconceptions around professional engineering. How does this translate into improving K-12 STEM classrooms? What is the role of a STEM teacher?false00:27:301139Is Teaching Engineering Bad? Pt. 2fullIs Teaching Engineering Bad? Pt. 2info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips138. Prepare for the Solar EclipseClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 23 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/138/prepare-for-the-solar-eclipse54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65d50e974bcf8c1a6e1b5fe9Show Summary:

Listen in as Natasha and Claire provide essential tips for educators on preparing your students for the upcoming solar eclipse and organizing a memorable watch party. From understanding safety precautions to engaging lesson ideas, we explore how to effectively incorporate this rare celestial event into your classroom while ensuring students' safety. With insights on selecting viewing equipment, planning interactive activities, and fostering a sense of wonder, we hope to equip you to create an enriching experience for your students and their families.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

123. Solar Eclipse Partying and World Space Week

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top Resources for the 2024 Solar Eclipse!

Vivify STEM Lessons

Solar Eclipse Pinhole Projector STEM Challenge

**FREE Solar Eclipse Paper Circuit Activity

STEM Family Night Planning Guide

Solar Eclipse Explorer Kit

Ultraviolet Solar Light Shelter STEM Challenge (uses UV beads)

Chile Solar Car STEM Challenge

Astronaut Boot STEM Challenge

Other STEM Resources

NASA: Eye Safety During a Total Solar Eclipse

Solar Eclipse Glasses (ISO 12312-2:2015E & CE Certified, Durable Plastic; Amazon affiliate link)

Why do shadows change during a solar eclipse?

NASA: Measuring Solar Energy During an Eclipse

GLOBE Eclipse: Only available when a solar eclipse is happening somewhere in the world, the GLOBE Eclipse tool will prompt users to record air temperature measurements in addition to observations of sky conditions and vegetation at the data collection site.

Quick Tips

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]]>Vivify STEMPlan an event and engage with the scienceListen in as Natasha and Claire provide essential tips for educators on preparing your students for the upcoming solar eclipse and organizing a memorable watch party. From understanding safety precautions to engaging lesson ideas, we explore how to effectively incorporate this rare celestial event into your classroom while ensuring students' safety. With insights on selecting viewing equipment, planning interactive activities, and fostering a sense of wonder, we hope to equip you to create an enriching experience for your students and their families.false00:15:101138Prepare for the Solar EclipsefullPrepare for the Solar Eclipseinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips137. Is Teaching Engineering Bad?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 16 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/137/is-teaching-engineering-bad54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65ce60a1715cd12a2171e343Show Summary:

Dive into the frustrations college professors express about the way engineering is taught in K-12 education that are leaving students ill-prepared for higher education. Tune in to hear about the disconnect between K-12 and college-level engineering education as well as some of our experiences from the Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC).

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

133. Conferences You Should Attend in 2024

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

103. Teaching Light & Breaking Misconceptions

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Heart Rate Ratios & Graphing Activity

Asteroid Math Bundle: Real World Math (Fractions, Ratios, and Geometry)

FREE Editable Budget Sheet for Engineering Design Challenges

Roller Coaster STEM Activity: Middle School Engineering Design

Other STEM Resources

SEEC

Svaha USA

solar system necklace

Joseph M. Acaba - NASA Astronaut

TikTok: The Savannah Bananas

SNExplores: Mosquitoes see red, which may be why they find us so appealing

LiveScience: Loads of mammals — including cats — glow under UV light, but we don't know why

ASEE Annual Conference (June 23-26, 2024)

Email us your questions and more!

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]]>Vivify STEMWhere is the math?Dive into the frustrations college professors express about the way engineering is taught in K-12 education that are leaving students ill-prepared for higher education. Tune in to hear about the disconnect between K-12 and college-level engineering education as well as some of our experiences from the Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC).false00:38:311137Is Teaching Engineering Bad?fullIs Teaching Engineering Bad?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips136. Cool Lessons on Heat TransferClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 10 Feb 2024 05:31:31 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/136/cool-lessons-on-heat-transfer54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65c2939d51c24f4d85424c67Show Summary:

Unravel the secrets of heat transfer and explore the science behind why your tumbler keeps your drink cold. In this episode, we delve into innovative teaching strategies to make the complexities of heat transfer engaging for students. Discover the fascinating principles that govern thermal energy movement and gain insights into the clever design of insulated tumblers. Whether you're a science enthusiast, an educator seeking inspiration, or simply curious about everyday science, tune in for a dynamic exploration where science meets fascination!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM

103. Teaching Light & Breaking Misconceptions

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The ABCs of Kindergarten STEM

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

Vivify STEM Lessons

Alphabet STEM Challenges Bundle - Kindergarten STEM Year-Long Curriculum

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum + History Around the World

Stem Explorers: Antarctica Shelter STEM Challenge

Space Capsule Heat Shield 5E Engineering Challenge

Other STEM Resources

YouTube: What’s Inside a Hydro Flask?

STEMCON and Beyond 2024

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

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]]>Vivify STEMHow your tumbler worksUnravel the secrets of heat transfer and explore the science behind why your tumbler keeps your drink cold. In this episode, we delve into innovative teaching strategies to make the complexities of heat transfer engaging for students. Discover the fascinating principles that govern thermal energy movement and gain insights into the clever design of insulated tumblers. Whether you're a science enthusiast, an educator seeking inspiration, or simply curious about everyday science, tune in for a dynamic exploration where science meets fascination!false00:19:541136Cool Lessons on Heat TransferfullCool Lessons on Heat Transferinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips135. What Should Students Learn?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 02 Feb 2024 14:02:18 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/135/what-should-students-learn54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65b940c90d41dc3b461d03f8Show Summary:

“Here is an essential principle of education: to teach details is to bring confusion; to establish the relationship between things is to bring knowledge.”
Maria Montessori

In this episode, Natasha and Claire delve into the subject of whether students should focus on acquiring specific knowledge or developing strong critical thinking skills built on discovering relationships. They explore the importance of equipping students with the ability to think independently and critically, weighing the balance between content knowledge and cognitive abilities. Additionally, they touch on the significance of public speaking skills, guidance on where to obtain effective scope and sequence resources, and other key aspects of fostering well-rounded and thoughtful learners in today's education landscape.

We would love to get to know you in person and that opportunity is coming soon! Come hang out with us in Houston, TX on Saturday February 10th, 2024 for a Friends of Vivify lunch. Let us know if you plan to join us by submitting your information here and we will send you all the details. Hope to see you there!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

101. How ChatGPT Will Transform Education

111. How AI will Transform Education ft. André Thomas

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The ABCs of Kindergarten STEM

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons

Catapults

Alphabet STEM Bundle

Other STEM Resources

Become a member of The STEM Space!

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

The Dale Carnegie Public Speaking Course

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha and Claire delve acquiring knowledge vs developing critical thinking skills “Here is an essential principle of education: to teach details is to bring confusion; to establish the relationship between things is to bring knowledge.”Maria Montessori In this episode, Natasha and Claire delve into the subject of whether students should focus on acquiring specific knowledge or developing strong critical thinking skills built on discovering relationships. They explore the importance of equipping students with the ability to think independently and critically, weighing the balance between content knowledge and cognitive abilities. Additionally, they touch on the significance of public speaking skills, guidance on where to obtain effective scope and sequence resources, and other key aspects of fostering well-rounded and thoughtful learners in today's education landscape. We would love to get to know you in person and that opportunity is coming soon! Come hang out with us in Houston, TX on Saturday February 10th, 2024 for a Friends of Vivify lunch. Let us know if you plan to join us by submitting your information here and we will send you all the details. Hope to see you there!false00:32:291135What Should Students Learn?fullWhat Should Students Learn?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips134. Are You Gifted?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 26 Jan 2024 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/134/are-you-gifted54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65b01525fab15431760aee06Show Summary:

Who is gifted and why does it matter? In this episode, Natasha and Claire reflect on their experiences of being rejected from an elementary gifted and talented program. They also discuss differences between motivation, exposure, and natural abilities and whether STEM education is only for those gifted students.

We would love to get to know you in person and that opportunity is coming soon! Come hang out with us in Houston, TX on Saturday February 10th, 2024 for a Friends of Vivify lunch. Let us know if you plan to join us by submitting your information here and we will send you all the details. Hope to see you there!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

82. How to Rock It with Rockets

73. Does STEM Track?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Launch Rockets blog posts

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Catapult

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge

“There’s Space for You in STEM” Inspirational STEM Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

Department of Education:

- Recognizing Gifted Students: A Practical Guide for Teachers (PDF)

- Gifted Education and STEM: A Thematic Review (PDF)

EduTopia: Identifying and Supporting Gifted ELLs

Bring Space Club to your school!

Invention Convention

Are STEM Students Creative Thinkers? - PMC - NCBI

Submit a Quick Tip!

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]]>Vivify STEMWho is gifted and why does it matter?Who is gifted and why does it matter? In this episode, Natasha and Claire reflect on their experiences of being rejected from an elementary gifted and talented program. They also discuss differences between motivation, exposure, and natural abilities and whether STEM education is only for those gifted students.false00:23:071134Are You Gifted?fullAre You Gifted?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips133. Conferences You Should Attend in 2024Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 19 Jan 2024 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2024/133/conferences-you-should-attend-in-202454807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65a2292c8d17074b14f5c10dShow Summary:

Are you in need of some CPE credit hours or just wanting to attend some great learning opportunities for educators? In this episode, Natasha and Claire share a list of their favorite conferences happening in 2024 and they want you to join them! The list includes SEEC, STEM Con & Beyond, STEM4Innovation, NSTA and more! Also, learn about a chance to meet up with Natasha and Claire in person to celebrate 10 years of Vivify!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

Episodes ft. STEM Con & Beyond’s Kerry Tracy:

- 24. Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

- 26. Making Time for STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

111. How AI will Transform Education ft. André Thomas

101. How ChatGPT Will Transform Education

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

25 Year-Round STEM Task Cards for Building Bricks!

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Best Free AI Tools for Teachers

Vivify STEM Lessons

Semester STEM Units:

- Mission to Moon

- Mission to Mars

Year-Round STEM Task Cards for Building Bricks

Other STEM Resources

STEM4Innovation (Jan 20, 2024)

SEEC (Feb 8-10, 2024)

- Vivify Meet-up (February 10, 2024, 12:00PM near NASA in Houston, TX). Fill out interest form here.

STEM Con & Beyond (April 5-7, 2024)

NSTA (March 20-23, 2024)

ASEE Annual Conference (June 23-26, 2024)

Space Port Area Conference for Educators (SPACE) (June 26-28, 2024)

Quick Tips

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]]>Vivify STEMJoin us in 2024Are you in need of some CPE credit hours or just wanting to attend some great learning opportunities for educators? In this episode, Natasha and Claire share a list of their favorite conferences happening in 2024 and they want you to join them! The list includes SEEC, STEM Con & Beyond, STEM4Innovation, NSTA and more! Also, learn about a chance to meet up with Natasha and Claire in person to celebrate 10 years of Vivify!false00:15:131133Conferences You Should Attend in 2024fullConferences You Should Attend in 2024info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips132. The Focus of an Engineering Design CompetitionClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 22 Dec 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/132/the-focus-of-an-engineering-design-competition54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6579e678bd6bde6a7d2e4c4bShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha shares her experience with a high school design competition. A design competition and any engineering design challenge should adequately relate to the real world of engineering while appropriately incorporating students’ prior knowledge. Claire and Natasha discuss how to approach this task and what steps can be taken to prepare students for true engineering.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

131. How to Scaffold Engineering Design in K-12

125. Constraints in a STEM Classroom

120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Vivify STEM Lessons

Design a Sustainable Eco-House (Environmental Science)

Design a Zoo! 5E STEM Project

Semester STEM Units:

- Mission to Moon

- Mission to Mars

Other STEM Resources

About Rube Goldberg

FIRST® LEGO® League

SA Smart Challenge

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]]>Vivify STEMPrepare students for true engineering!In this episode, Natasha shares her experience with a high school design competition. A design competition and any engineering design challenge should adequately relate to the real world of engineering while appropriately incorporating students’ prior knowledge. Claire and Natasha discuss how to approach this task and what steps can be taken to prepare students for true engineering. false00:23:581132The Focus of an Engineering Design CompetitionfullThe Focus of an Engineering Design Competitioninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips131. How to Scaffold Engineering Design in K-12Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 15 Dec 2023 20:07:28 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/131/how-to-scaffold-engineering-design-in-k-1254807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6579e48405849936dfb3ec74Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire answer a listener's question about how to differentiate engineering design practices for each grade level. You will learn different approaches to preparing your students to become expert problem solvers by slowly introducing them to the engineering design process all while making it accessible and engaging for young minds.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

1. The 3 Stages of STEM

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Sub Plans for a STEM Classroom

25 Year-Round STEM Task Cards for Building Bricks!

Top 35 Amazing STEM Books for Kids

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

Vivify STEM Lessons

Building Bricks STEM Task Cards

Building Bricks: STEM Careers Task Cards

STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guide) - FREE!!

- Elementary School (K-5)

- Middle School (6-8)

Thanksgiving Turkey Nest Challenge Engineering Activity

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

Design a Habitat STEM/STEAM Project Guide

- Mars

- Moon

Robot Hand STEM Activity

Other STEM Resources

The STEM Space Membership

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VIVIFY TIKTOK1. The 3 Stages of STEM

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Sub Plans for a STEM Classroom

25 Year-Round STEM Task Cards for Building Bricks!

Top 35 Amazing STEM Books for Kids

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

Vivify STEM Lessons

Building Bricks STEM Task Cards

Building Bricks STEM: STEM Careers

FREE - STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guide) - K-5 or 6-8

Thanksgiving Turkey Nest Challenge Engineering Activity

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

Design a Habitat STEM/STEAM Project Guide: Mars or Moon

Robot Hand STEM Activity

Other STEM Resources

The STEM Space Membership

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]]>Vivify STEMEngineering design practices for each grade level.In this episode, Natasha and Claire answer a listener's question about how to differentiate engineering design practices for each grade level. You will learn different approaches to preparing your students to become expert problem solvers by slowly introducing them to the engineering design process all while making it accessible and engaging for young minds. false00:22:021131How to Scaffold Engineering Design in K-12fullHow to Scaffold Engineering Design in K-12info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips130. Amazing K-12 Space Projects ft. Juan NolascoClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 08 Dec 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/130/amazing-k-12-space-projects-ft-juan-nolasco54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:656f72c2cbb8413e92695dfcShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with a STEM teacher from Portugal, Juan Nolasco. We connected through Space Club, and after hearing about all the amazing space STEM projects he does with students, we invited him to join us on the podcast! He is an electrical engineer turned educator with over 18 years of teaching engineering and technology to middle and high school students. Juan was awarded the Space Teacher Excellence Certificate and the Teacher of the Year award. Listen in as we chat about his passion for space education, defining STEM in Portugal, and his advice for participating in NASA and European Space Agency projects like CanSat, MoonShot, and Mission X.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

4. Why You Should Teach Space

84. Show Me the Money for STEM

125. Constraints in a STEM Classroom

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Teaching Space Inspires Youth

5 Steps to Get STEM Funding

Vivify STEM Lessons

Design a Moon Habitat STEM / STEAM Project Guide

Mission to Moon - Middle School Semester STEM Unit

Space Exploration STEM

Other STEM Resources

Juan Nolasco (LinkedIn)

STEM Space Club (Teacher Grants Available!)

European Space Agency links:

- CanSat

- Teacher Training Opportunities

- Training Like an Astronaut: Mission X

European Astro Pi Challenge

NASA Next Gen STEM For Educators

NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative

Email us your questions and more!

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]]>Vivify STEMA chat with a STEM teacher from PortugalIn this episode, Natasha chats with a STEM teacher from Portugal, Juan Nolasco. After connecting through Space Club and hearing about all the amazing space STEM projects he does with students, we invited him to join us on the podcast! He is an electrical engineer turned educator with over 18 years of teaching engineering and technology to middle and high school students. Juan was awarded the Space Teacher Excellence Certificate and the Teacher of the Year award. Listen in as we chat about his passion for space education, defining STEM in Portugal, and his advice for participating in NASA and European Space Agency projects like CanSat, MoonShot, and Mission X.false00:14:151130Amazing K-12 Space Projects ft. Juan NolascofullAmazing K-12 Space Projects ft. Juan Nolascoinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips129. A Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based TeachingClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Dec 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/129/a-good-and-bad-example-of-phenomenon-based-teaching54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:65663b0e6563980a48dd4928Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha delve into the topic of phenomenon-based science teaching as an engaging way to increase understanding of science concepts while improving science practices. However, we warn listeners that not all lessons labeled as phenomenon-based are equally effective! Natasha shares a simple but powerful lesson that starts with dropping cans of soda into water to enhance students' grasp of buoyancy and density concepts. On the flip side, we also critique a lesson on forces and motion that falls short, potentially reinforcing misconceptions and likely creating lots of confusion among students. Teaching science is hard, and writing curriculum for science teachers is equally difficult, so this is not meant to be a criticism towards a specific company but we want to support a more general conversation on how to promote effective science teaching!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

128. Preparing for the New Science Standards in Texas

121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Teaching STEM Through A Story

Vivify STEM Lessons

Density/Buoyancy STEM:

- Ocean Study: 5E Science Unit (Sink/Float, Salinity, Ocean Layers)

- STEM Pirate Ship Engineering Challenge (K-5)

- STEM Sailboat Challenge (4-10)

Drag STEM:

- Alphabet STEM - Activities for Letter D (PreK - 1)

- STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge (2-8)

Other STEM Resources

What is Phenomenon-Based Learning? by TechLearning

Conference for the Advancement of Science Teachers (CAST)

YouTube: SHARING HER PASSION | Tatiana Erukhimova Ph.D. (Texas A&M Physics Professor)

Argument-Driven Inquiry Science (A Good Example of Phenomenon-Based Learning!)

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]]>Vivify STEMTeaching science is hard Claire and Natasha delve into the topic of phenomenon-based science teaching as an engaging way to increase understanding of science concepts while improving science practices. However, we warn listeners that not all lessons labeled as phenomenon-based are equally effective! Natasha shares a simple but powerful lesson that starts with dropping cans of soda into water to enhance students' grasp of buoyancy and density concepts. On the flip side, we also critique a lesson on forces and motion that falls short, potentially reinforcing misconceptions and likely creating lots of confusion among students. Teaching science is hard, and writing curriculum for science teachers is equally difficult, so this is not meant to be a criticism towards a specific company but we want to support a more general conversation on how to promote effective science teaching!false00:21:341129A Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based TeachingfullA Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based Teachinginfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips128. Preparing for the New Science Standards in TexasClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 24 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/128/preparing-for-the-new-science-standards-in-texas54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:655cfbb279f4675f2083ae4bShow Summary:

Texas teachers - are you ready for the new science standards coming next year? This was the hot topic at the recent Texas-based Conference for the Advancement of Science Teachers! Natasha shares her experiences attending the conferences and her thoughts on the similarities between these and the Next Generation Science Standards. Hint: they are both based on the same document, A Framework for K–12 Science Education, that promotes a three-dimensional approach to science teaching. Plus, we chat on how Vivify is working hard to align all our lessons to the new TEKS in time for next year!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

93. How Does Engineering Relate to Science?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Engineering in the Science Classroom

The ABCs of Kindergarten STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons

Starter STEM Activities (includes Egg Drop Challenge)

Turkey Nest Challenge Engineering Activity (A fun twist on the classic egg-drop challenge!)

Alphabet STEM Challenges Bundle - Kindergarten STEM Year-Long Curriculum

Other STEM Resources

Conference for the Advancement of Science Teachers (CAST)

Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC)

Claire’s STEM Stations:

- Brain Flakes

- Keva Planks

- Magna-Tiles

- Zoob BuilderZ

- LEGO® Building Blocks

YouTube: SHARING HER PASSION | Tatiana Erukhimova Ph.D. (Texas A&M Physics Professor)

Vivify’s Story from Texas A&M: Aerospace engineering former students bring engineering to life for kids of all ages

Egg Drop Challenge

A Framework for K–12 Science Education (2012)

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMTEKS, NGSS, and what's comingTexas teachers - are you ready for the new science standards coming next year? This was the hot topic at the recent Texas-based Conference for the Advancement of Science Teachers! Natasha shares her experiences attending the conferences and her thoughts on the similarities between these and the Next Generation Science Standards. Hint: they are both based on the same document, A Framework for K–12 Science Education, that promotes a three-dimensional approach to science teaching. Plus, we chat on how Vivify is working hard to align all our lessons to the new TEKS in time for next year!false00:16:161128Preparing for the New Science Standards in TexasfullPreparing for the New Science Standards in Texasinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips127. Why You Should Teach About STEM CareersClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 17 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/127/why-you-should-teach-about-stem-careers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6553b3228617c52f80ee902fShow Summary:

In this episode, Claire and Natasha emphasize the importance of introducing students to STEM careers at an early age. Learn how exposure to STEM fields can ignite curiosity and foster critical thinking skills in students, preparing them for the challenges of the future job market. The episode also highlights the significance of sharing the stories of famous scientists, showcasing how these role models can inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

55: How to Teach STEM During Women's History Month

98. Who is an Engineer?

117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The ABCs of Kindergarten STEM

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

Teaching STEM Through A Story

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Alphabet STEM Bundle (A-Z)

Try Letter A for FREE!

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

Zip Line STEM Activity: Grades K-5 or 5-8

Tower STEM Challenges (includes cup tower challenge)

STEM Careers BINGO Game - Grades K-5 or 6-12

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Other STEM Resources

Instagram: The Wyndcroft School STEM

TedEd: The genius of Marie Curie - Shohini Ghose

Book: Incredible Stories of the World’s Most Ingenious Inventors (Amazon Affiliate link)

Hedy Lamarr

Five Fast Facts about Actress and Inventor Hedy Lamarr

Hedy Lamarr and the Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum

Book: Full of Beans by Peggy Thomas (Amazon Affiliate link)

Email us your questions!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMIntroducing students to STEM careers thru storiesIn this episode, Claire and Natasha emphasize the importance of introducing students to STEM careers at an early age. Learn how exposure to STEM fields can ignite curiosity and foster critical thinking skills in students, preparing them for the challenges of the future job market. The episode also highlights the significance of sharing the stories of famous scientists, showcasing how these role models can inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.false00:23:191127Why You Should Teach About STEM CareersfullWhy You Should Teach About STEM Careersinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips126. Star Parties & Thematic Classroom AttireClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 10 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/126/star-parties-and-thematic-classroom-attire54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:654a8c1c33d1357335700657Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire take you on a journey beyond the classroom as they delve into the magical world of hosting a Star Party for students! Join them as they explore how you can teach the wonders of the universe through telescopes at an exciting school-wide event. Learn how to ignite the sparks of curiosity in your classroom by also donning enchanting costumes that bring your educational content to life!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

124. Bones & STEM: Spooky Special Episode

52: How to Host a STEM Family Night

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

Teaching STEM Through A Story

Vivify STEM Lessons

Explore the Universe: Science Astronomy Scavenger Hunt - FREE!

Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, Activity Instructions

All About Space Club

YouTube Playlist: STEM Career Chats

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Video: Space Club: Mission to Moon

Video: Space Club: Mission to Mars

Space Colony Competition by Vivify and the Cosmic Leap Foundation

Other STEM Resources

Fort Worth Astronomical Society: Star Parties

Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC)

Vivify Instagram: Natasha Costume Reveal

Champions for Science

Raquel Nuno – Planetary scientist, science educator

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMExplore ways to teach the wonders of the universe In this episode, Natasha and Claire take you on a journey beyond the classroom as they delve into the magical world of hosting a Star Party for students! Join them as they explore how you can teach the wonders of the universe through telescopes at an exciting school-wide event. Learn how to ignite the sparks of curiosity in your classroom by also donning enchanting costumes that bring your educational content to life!false00:23:331126Star Parties & Thematic Classroom AttirefullStar Parties & Thematic Classroom Attireinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips125. Constraints in a STEM ClassroomClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 03 Nov 2023 19:14:21 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/125/constraints-in-a-stem-classroom54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:654011c68b8861301b13f3ffShow Summary:

How much time do you have with students in your STEM classroom? In this episode, Natasha and Claire share the findings of Vivify’s national survey of over 600 STEM teachers including the average time for elementary and middle school STEM classes. Who do you think has the most time? Tune in for the results plus how time is just one constraint in trying to achieve our goals for students.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

26. Making Time for STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

84. Show Me the Money for STEM

57. How to Organize a STEM Summer Camp

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

How to Launch a Weather Balloon

5 Steps to Get STEM Funding

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons

Solar Oven STEM Challenge

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

- Chile Solar Car STEM Challenge

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Alphabet STEM Challenges Bundle - Kindergarten STEM Year-Long Curriculum

- Alphabet STEM - Activities for Letter A

Catapult STEM Challenge

STEM Space Lander

STEM Scope and Sequence - FREE!!

- Elementary (K-5)

- Middle School (6-8)

5E STEM Projects

- Design a Zoo! 5E STEM Project

Other STEM Resources

Frontiers in Education Conference

Email us your questions and more!

The STEM Space Membership (Yearly access to ALL Vivify Lessons!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMHow much time do you have with students in your STEM classroom?How much time do you have with students in your STEM classroom? In this episode, Natasha and Claire share the findings of Vivify’s national survey of over 600 STEM teachers including the average time for elementary and middle school STEM classes. Who do you think has the most time? Tune in for the results plus how time is just one constraint in trying to achieve our goals for students. false00:23:571125Constraints in a STEM ClassroomfullConstraints in a STEM Classroominfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips124. Bones & STEM: Spooky Special EpisodeClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsWed, 25 Oct 2023 02:20:32 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/124/bones-stem-spooky-special-episode54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6537e32301fbb44cccee3550Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire and Natasha chat all about bones in celebration of the spooky season of Halloween! From designing a prosthetic leg to a creepy science project involving a rat skeleton, join us for a spine-tingling episode!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

82. How to Rock It with Rockets

52: How to Host a STEM Family Night

120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM (student asks to bring a dead cat)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Launch Rockets

10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

5 Spooky Halloween STEM Activities

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Vivify STEM Lessons

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge (Forces & Motion, Variables)

STEM Family Night Planning Guide

Prosthetic Leg Engineering Design STEM Challenge

Design a Zoo! 5E STEM Project (Animal Habitats)

Halloween STEM

- Spider Parachute

- Haunted House Paper Circuit

- Fall Pumpkin Catapult

- Candy Grabber

Other STEM Resources

Pitsco Education Kits

- Straw Rocket Launcher

- Family STEM Night Bundle

Vivify TikTok: Tour Claire’s STEM Classroom (including the Nature Wall)

Everything You Want to Know About Flesh-Eating Dermestid Beetles

Prosthesis facts for kids

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMSTEM activities on bones, Halloween and fallIn this episode, Claire and Natasha chat all about bones in celebration of the spooky season of Halloween! From designing a prosthetic leg to a creepy science project involving a rat skeleton, join us for a spine-tingling episode!false00:29:231124Bones & STEM: Spooky Special EpisodefullBones & STEM: Spooky Special Episodeinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips123. Solar Eclipse Partying and World Space WeekClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 29 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/123/solar-eclipse-partying-and-world-space-week54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:651475cb5f63367249ee988eShow Summary:

Join us for an episode filled with celestial celebrations as we guide you through hosting a Solar Eclipse Party using ready-made kits and embracing World Space Week through space-themed STEM lessons. Learn how to safely witness a solar eclipse and our favorite space lessons including Rockets and rovers. Whether you're a space enthusiast or just looking for some educational fun, this podcast episode will inspire your cosmic curiosity!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

4. Why You Should Teach Space

83. How to Engage Families with STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Solar Eclipse Party and Activities

Rocketry

Vivify STEM Lessons

Solar Eclipse Pinhole Projector STEM Challenge

STEM Family Night Planning Guide

**FREE Solar Eclipse Paper Circuit Activity

Claire’s Classroom: Favorite Vivify Space Lessons

-STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity

-Straw Rocket STEM Challenge

-Space Docking (included in Family Night)

-Space Rover STEM Engineering Design Challenge

-Ultraviolet Solar Light Shelter STEM Challenge

Eating in Space STEM Challenge: Design a Menu for an Astronaut!

Other STEM Resources

Future Eclipses | NASA

Vivify STEM Kits from Pitsco Education

Soluna Solar Eclipse Glasses

Astreas - "Rocket Fuel in Your Pocket"

Quick Tips

Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Space Club Student Highlights: Space Club: Mission to Mars

Space Colony Competition

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMYour tips for upcoming celestial celebrations Join us for an episode filled with celestial celebrations as we guide you through hosting a Solar Eclipse Party using ready-made kits and embracing World Space Week through space-themed STEM lessons. Learn how to safely witness a solar eclipse and our favorite space lessons including Rockets and rovers. Whether you're a space enthusiast or just looking for some educational fun, this podcast episode will inspire your cosmic curiosity!false00:22:111123Solar Eclipse Partying and World Space WeekfullSolar Eclipse Partying and World Space Weekinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips122. How to Motivate StudentsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 22 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/122/how-to-motivate-students54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6509d80dfccd504884bb95dbShow Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, we talk all about motivation. How can teachers engage uninterested students? Natasha & Claire chat about their own struggles with motivation and strategies they have tried to increase intrinsic motivation, curiosity, and engagement in their classrooms.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science

98. Who is an Engineer?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The Best STEM Challenge

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Space Lander Challenge - Grades K-5 or 5-8

Stage 1 STEM: Icebreakers & Teambuilding

Other STEM Resources

TikTok: TX High School Teacher Talks Motivation

Speaking of Psychology: Why our attention spans are shrinking, with Gloria Mark, PhD

TikTok: Claire’s STEM Classroom Tour (ft. the Nature Wall)

Email us your questions!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMHow can teachers engage uninterested students? In this episode of The STEM Space, we talk all about motivation. How can teachers engage uninterested students? Natasha & Claire chat about their own struggles with motivation and strategies they have tried to increase intrinsic motivation, curiosity, and engagement in their classrooms.false00:22:231122How to Motivate StudentsfullHow to Motivate Studentsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips121. The Importance of Clear Communication in ScienceClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 15 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/121/the-importance-of-clear-communication-in-science54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6502472c51cfe43bd4c5d27fShow Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire reflect on the first few weeks of school, including everyone getting sick! Claire shares her students’ reaction to the mysterious refilling water bottle and a new role she is taking on in addition to teaching STEM. Natasha shares an open-ended science inquiry activity that has students defining variables and collecting data. Teams then share their findings with other groups and quickly realize the importance of clear communication in science!

Have a question we could answer in a future podcast episode? Email us at info@vivifystem.com

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM (water bottle)

113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of Prototyping

118. Adventures in Engineering Education with Rachelle Pedersen

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Space Lander Mission

Exploring National Parks with a STEM Challenge!

Teaching STEM Through A Story

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Space Lander - K-5 or 5-8

Robot Hand STEM Activity

National Park Research & Design: 5E STEM Project

Other STEM Resources

Galileo

- How was the force of gravity (9.81 meters per second squared) determined?

- Role of resistance forces in Galileo's experiments (PDF: W G Breiland)

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMBack to school sickness, mysterious refilling water bottles, and open-ended science!In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire reflect on the first few weeks of school, including everyone getting sick! Claire shares her students’ reaction to the mysterious refilling water bottle and a new role she is taking on in addition to teaching STEM. Natasha shares an open-ended science inquiry activity that has students defining variables and collecting data. Teams then share their findings with other groups and quickly realize the importance of clear communication in science!false00:23:091121The Importance of Clear Communication in SciencefullThe Importance of Clear Communication in Scienceinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 08 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/120/prioritizing-prototypes-and-assessing-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64f8b3af88bdc1163336bcb3Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire is back in her STEM classroom and focused on prototyping and troubleshooting for her kinder - 9th graders! Listen in as she and Natasha chat about a mysterious prototype, a STEM challenge intended to assess learning for back to school, and why her students asked if they could bring a dead cat to school.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of Prototyping

40. Escape the STEM Room

119. Think Like A Scientist

51. How Do You Get Every Student to Speak?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Sub Plans for a STEM Classroom

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Sub Lesson Templates for a STEM Classroom

Paper Circuits STEM Activity - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!

Robot Hand STEM Activity

Other STEM Resources

Tour Claire’s STEM Lab on TikTok or Instagram!

STEM Books:

- “What To Do With a Box?” by Jane Yolen

- “Boxitects” by Kim Smith

Who has the hat? on TikTok or Instagram

The STEM Space Membership (365 day access to ALL Vivify Lessons!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMHow do you check your students' engineering skills?In this episode, Claire is back in her STEM classroom and focused on prototyping and troubleshooting for her kinder - 9th graders! Listen in as she and Natasha chat about a mysterious prototype, a STEM challenge intended to assess learning for back to school, and why her students asked if they could bring a dead cat to school. Have a question we could answer in a future podcast episode? Email us at info@vivifystem.comfalse00:27:071120Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEMfullPrioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips119. Think Like A ScientistClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Sep 2023 15:06:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/119/think-like-a-scientist54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64ee2d0cc9753053120ba8e0Show Summary:

Happy back to school! In this episode, Natasha shares her lessons and reflects on the first week of school. This includes two mystery box activities to get to know her students, establish expectations for classroom participation, and connect to the scientific process. She also shares how she introduced the teaching of science by having her students, who are undergraduate preservice teachers, complete ineffective science activities to highlight the challenges of promoting science knowledge.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

51. How Do You Get Every Student to Speak?

7. How to Ask Questions

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

A Teacher’s Guide to Science Fair

How to Host a Debate in Your Science Classroom

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Pipecleaner STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Lessons

Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit

Tower STEM Challenges: 5 Icebreaker Activities

Intro to STEM: Think Like a Scientist & Engineer!

Back to School (Stage 1 STEM) Bundle: 50+ Icebreaker Activities

Other STEM Resources

Mystery Box: Introducing Questioning

Mystery Tubes (UC Berkeley)

Pear Deck (for use with Google Slides)

Texas A&M University Professor Tatiana Erukhimova:

- Ready for a big cloud?! These kids sure were! (YouTube)

- A Texas A&M Professor Is Sharing Her Love Of Physics With Millions On TikTok (TAMU article)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMNatasha shares her lessons and reflects on the first week of school. This includes two mystery box activities to get to know her students, establish expectations for classroom participation, and connect to the scientific process.Happy back to school! In this episode, Natasha shares her lessons and reflects on the first week of school. This includes two mystery box activities to get to know her students, establish expectations for classroom participation, and connect to the scientific process. She also shares how she introduced the teaching of science by having her students, who are undergraduate preservice teachers, complete ineffective science activities to highlight the challenges of promoting science knowledge.false00:26:011119Think Like A ScientistfullThink Like A Scientistinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips118. Adventures in Engineering Education with Rachelle PedersenClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 25 Aug 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/118/adventures-in-engineering-education-with-rachelle-pedersen54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64e4f36cc22a7b176eb2ac6dShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with one of her favorite people and classmates at Texas A&M University, Rachelle Pedersen! Natasha and Rachelle are both doctoral students in curriculum and instruction, and one of the few focused on engineering education. Rachelle shares her experiences teaching high school technology and engineering, including one of her favorite engineering design challenges. They also discuss the overwhelming expectations of STEM education and strategies to support teachers.

Rachelle Pedersen is a Graduate Research Assistant and Instructor of Record for the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Engineering Science (Concentration Technology Education) from Colorado State University and a Masters of Science in Curriculum & Instruction (Emphasis Science Education) from Texas A&M University. Her research focuses on motivation and social influences (e.g. mentoring and identity development) that support underrepresented students in STEM fields. She is also on the Board of Directors for the Cosmic Leap Foundation and the Outreach Chair for the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program at Texas A&M. Prior to graduate school, Rachelle taught high school technology and engineering education (Robotics/Engineering, AP Computer Science, and Video Production) and advised several after-school programs (e.g., Technology Student Association, Girls in STEM, Stage Crew).

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

98. Who is an Engineer?

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guides) - FREE!!

Roller Coaster STEM Challenge

Elementary School Version (K-5)

Middle School Version (5-8)

Interview Questions to ask STEM Professionals - FREE!!

Other STEM Resources

What is CTE? (from the Association of Career and Technical Education)

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Learn More About Space Club Career Chats

Voya Foundation’s National STEM Fellowship in partnership with the NNSTOY

WiSE at Texas A&M University

Skype a Scientist

Rachelle’s Favorite STEM Lesson: Making Cents of the Nature of Engineering

Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEM The expectations of STEM education and strategies to support teachersIn this episode, Natasha chats with one of her favorite people and classmates at Texas A&M University, Rachelle Pedersen! Natasha and Rachelle are both doctoral students in curriculum and instruction, and one of the few focused on engineering education. Rachelle shares her experiences teaching high school technology and engineering, including one of her favorite engineering design challenges. They also discuss the overwhelming expectations of STEM education and strategies to support teachers.false00:26:541118118. Adventures in Engineering Education with Rachelle Pedersenfull118. Adventures in Engineering Education with Rachelle Pederseninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 18 Aug 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/117/why-does-belonging-matter-in-stem-education54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64dce000cff5b30cc1c43368Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha has an incredible conversation with Nikole Collins-Puri, a social justice visionary and advocate who is the CEO of Techbridge Girls, a nonprofit organization that empowers girls from low-income communities to pursue STEM careers and achieve economic mobility and financial security as adults. Nikole shares her own journey in STEM, why belonging matters in STEM, and resources for educators.

About Techbridge Girls: Techbridge Girls challenges gender, racial, and class bias in STEM fields and culture by developing gender responsive and culturally relevant STEM curricula that helps girls* see their unique STEM lineage, community, interests and path to success.

* Techbridge Girls (TBG) serves Black, Indigenous, and all girls of color, which includes cis girls, trans youth, gender non-conforming, and/or non-binary youth who experience(d) girlhood and economic insecurity as a part of their journey.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

18. What You Should Know About Failure

35. Question Everything

98. Who is an Engineer?

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons

Women in STEM

Women in STEM Classroom Posters - FREE!

Botany STEM Challenge - highlights Katherine Esau

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge - highlights Emily Roebling

Building Bricks STEM Women's History Design Challenge

Solar Oven STEM Challenge - highlights Maria Telkes

Other STEM Resources

Techbridge Girls

Be Part of Our STEM Equity Learning Community of Practice - Applications are open through August 30! Apply here.

NIH: The missing women in STEM? Assessing gender differentials in the factors associated with transition to first jobs

Dr. Colita Nichols Fairfax

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Email us your questions!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMTackling the important topic of having a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students!In this episode, Natasha has an incredible conversation with Nikole Collins-Puri, a social justice visionary and advocate who is the CEO of Techbridge Girls, a nonprofit organization that empowers girls from low-income communities to pursue STEM careers and achieve economic mobility and financial security as adults. Nikole shares her own journey in STEM, why belonging matters in STEM, and resources for educators.false00:34:061117Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?fullWhy Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips116. Back to School IcebreakersClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 11 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/116/back-to-school-icebreakers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64c17503cb74de2e92b599eeShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and Claire explore a variety of icebreakers to help set the tone for the academic year. They share activities that are not just fun but also help in sharpening vital soft skills like communication and teamwork—key elements for the complex design challenges that lie ahead. From hands-on challenges with LEGO® blocks and towers to fun ways to keep attendance while building relationships with your students, they share how these activities lay the groundwork for an engaging and collaborative learning environment. Tune in as we navigate through these exciting strategies to kick-start your STEM classroom experience.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

114. Strategies for a Teacherpreneur

105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM

34. We Interviewed an Astronaut (Greg Chamitoff)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Get Your STEM Classroom Ready for Back to School!

Find Student Sparks

The Best 3 Back to School STEM Icebreakers (includes Space Docking & Tower Challenges)

Pipecleaner STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Lessons

Stage 1: Icebreakers & Teambuilding

STEM Task Cards for Building Bricks: Growing Bundle!

Tower STEM Challenges: 5 Icebreaker Activities

Back to School (Stage 1 STEM) Bundle: 50+ Icebreaker Activities

All Stage 1 - Icebreakers & Teambuilding

Name Plate STEM

STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guide)

Elementary School (K-5)

Middle School (6-8)

Other STEM Resources

Vivify TikTok: Who Wears the Hat? (A Claire riddle!)

Claire’s Foam Magnets Recommendations

Book: Don’t Wake the Dragon

Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

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VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMIdeas for your first week of school!In this episode, Natasha and Claire explore a variety of icebreakers to help set the tone for the academic year. They share activities that are not just fun but also help in sharpening vital soft skills like communication and teamwork—key elements for the complex design challenges that lie ahead. From hands-on challenges with LEGO® blocks and towers to fun ways to keep attendance while building relationships with your students, they share how these activities lay the groundwork for an engaging and collaborative learning environment. Tune in as we navigate through these exciting strategies to kick-start your STEM classroom experience.false00:24:001116Back to School IcebreakersfullBack to School Icebreakersinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips115. How to Design a MakerspaceClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 04 Aug 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/115/how-to-design-a-makerspace54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64b613dfbd36dd327fd256e2Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire and Natasha discuss what things they would include in a devoted STEM classroom or Makerspace. They share some must-have products and design elements as well as some things you could skip. Tune in to hear an answer to one of our most frequently asked questions and take-away some ideas you may use for your STEM room.

Have a question we could answer in a future podcast episode? Email us at info@vivifystem.com

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

25. Teaching Fads: Should You Have A Makerspace?

106. Why is Engineering in K-12?

93. How Does Engineering Relate to Science?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Must Haves for a STEM Lab

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

The ABCs of Kindergarten STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons

STEM Classroom Decoration

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Alphabet STEM Challenges Bundle - Kindergarten STEM Year-Long Curriculum

STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guide)

Elementary School (K-5)

Middle School (6-8)

Other STEM Resources

We Are Teachers: What is a Makerspace?

Claire’s Makerspace and STEM Materials original preview

Mentioned STEM Must-Haves (Amazon Affiliate links):

- CANARY Cutters

- ZOOB BuilderZ

- LEGO DUPLO

- LEGO Compatible Magnetic Brick Tiles

Sphero EDU

Vivify Recommended Resources

The STEM Space Membership (Yearly access to ALL Vivify Lessons!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMMust-haves in your STEM classroom spaceIn this episode, Claire and Natasha discuss what things they would include in a devoted STEM classroom or Makerspace. They share some must-have products and design elements as well as some things you could skip. Tune in to hear an answer to one of our most frequently asked questions and take-away some ideas you may use for your STEM room. Have a question we could answer in a future podcast episode? Email us at info@vivifystem.comfalse00:27:141115How to Design a MakerspacefullHow to Design a Makerspaceinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips114. Strategies for a TeacherpreneurClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 28 Jul 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/114/strategies-for-a-teacherpreneur54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64a8c767357cf53e30889175Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire and Natasha share their extensive knowledge and experience in crafting and marketing educational curricula. They delve into the details of creating compelling and effective learning materials that not only engage students but also meet educators' needs by imparting valuable insights about the business side of education. They discuss strategies for positioning and selling their curricula in the competitive market, shedding light on their big-picture approach, teacher notes, and understanding the needs of their target audience. This episode is a must-listen for educators looking to create and sell their own teaching resources or if you might one day!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

84. Show Me the Money for STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons

Heart Rate Ratios & Graphing Activity

STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity

Editable Teacher Slides for Engineering Design Challenges (FREE!!)

STEM Scope and Sequence (Pacing Guide)

Elementary School (K-5)

Middle School (6-8)

Mission to Mars: STEM Curriculum Unit

Elementary School (PreK-5)

Middle School (5-8)

Design a Zoo! 5E STEM Project

Other STEM Resources

Vivify STEM on Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT)

Vivify Curriculum Map

The STEM Space Membership (Yearly access to ALL Vivify Lessons!)

Exploring STEM Like an Aerospace Engineer - Vivify’s story

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

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VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMPulling back the curtain on the strategies that have helped us position and sell our work in a competitive market!In this episode, Claire and Natasha share their extensive knowledge and experience in crafting and marketing educational curricula. They delve into the details of creating compelling and effective learning materials that not only engage students but also meet educators' needs by imparting valuable insights about the business side of education. They discuss strategies for positioning and selling their curricula in the competitive market, shedding light on their big-picture approach, teacher notes, and understanding the needs of their target audience. This episode is a must-listen for educators looking to create and sell their own teaching resources or if you might one day! false00:22:541114Strategies for a TeacherpreneurfullStrategies for a Teacherpreneurinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of PrototypingClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 21 Jul 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/113/the-power-of-prototyping54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64a6496e725fe70bca9cc513Show Summary:

In this episode, Claire dives into how she plans to inspire her students to understand complex concepts, such as buoyancy. She explores the transformative process of moving from paper sketches to mini-models, and ultimately to life-sized, functioning products. Claire explains the critical role of prototyping, the eureka moments, the challenges, and the triumph or failure of the end result. Tune in to this enlightening episode and discover how the power of prototyping can create unforgettable educational experiences for your students.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

94. How Sphero Supports STEM Teachers ft. Michelle Acaley

97. Robots and Computer Science ft Hal Speed

112. Have We Over-Engineered the Goals of Engineering Education?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Roller Coaster STEM Activity - K-5 or 5-8

Ocean Study: 5E Science Unit (Explore buoyancy, salinity, ocean layers, & ecosystem)

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity (Angles and Ratios)

Newspaper STEM Challenges: 3 Engineering Activities

Other STEM Resources

CodeHS - Coding platform for schools

Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

]]>Vivify STEMFasten your life jackets, we're navigating the transformational project Claire will be doing in her classroom!In this episode, Claire dives into how she plans to inspire her students to understand complex concepts, such as buoyancy. She explores the transformative process of moving from paper sketches to mini-models, and ultimately to life-sized, functioning products. Claire explains the critical role of prototyping, the eureka moments, the challenges, and the triumph or failure of the end result. Tune in to this enlightening episode and discover how the power of prototyping can create unforgettable educational experiences for your students.false00:22:291113113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of Prototypingfull113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of Prototypinginfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips112. Have We Over-Engineered the Goals of Engineering Education?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Jul 2023 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/112/have-we-over-engineered-the-goals-of-engineering-education54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64a64721c397f04b892cb4bbShow Summary:

The STEM Space podcast is back! While Natasha jetted off to France during the break, Claire shuttled her kids around town, from swim practice to piano camp. Now, somewhat rejuvenated, we're thrilled to be back to talk all things STEM! In this episode, Natasha reflects on her first time teaching undergraduate pre-service students, while Claire shares a student question she will never answer. Plus, we tackle the topic of: Have we over-engineered the goals of engineering education?

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

106. Why is Engineering in K-12?

33. My Students Built A Wheelchair

90. We Launched a Weather Balloon

7. How to Ask Questions

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

All About Rockets

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Teaching Buoyancy

STEM Sailboat Challenge Math & Engineering Activity

Ocean Study: 5E Science Unit (Sink/Float, Salinity, Ocean Layers)

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Other Resources

Marco Polo video chat app

Email us your questions!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOKWeather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Teaching Buoyancy

- STEM Sailboat Challenge Math & Engineering Activity - K-5 or 5-10

- Ocean Study: 5E Science Unit (Sink/Float, Salinity, Ocean Layers)

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

]]>Vivify STEMA look into how we teach engineeringThe STEM Space podcast is back! While Natasha jetted off to France during the break, Claire shuttled her kids around town, from swim practice to piano camp. Now, somewhat rejuvenated, we're thrilled to be back to talk all things STEM! In this episode, Natasha reflects on her first time teaching undergraduate pre-service students, while Claire shares a student question she will never answer. Plus, we tackle the topic of: Have we over-engineered the goals of engineering education?false00:22:471112112. Have We Over-Engineered the Goals of Engineering Education?full112. Have We Over-Engineered the Goals of Engineering Education?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips111. How AI will Transform Education ft. André ThomasClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 02 Jun 2023 10:27:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/111/how-ai-will-transform-education-ft-andre-thomas54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64763217f2b18642fc4fde99Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha continues her conversation with André Thomas, game-based learning expert and Director of the LIVE Lab in the Visualization program at Texas A&M University. Explore the exciting world of artificial intelligence (AI) as André shares his views on how it can personalize learning experiences, enhance engagement, and potentially revolutionize various aspects of our lives. Sign up for André’s online course Introduction to Game-Based Learning and get 30% off with code OMYM0G

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

110. How to Implement Game-Based Learning ft. André Thomas (part 1)

68. Game-Based Learning with André Thomas

101. How ChatGPT Will Transform Education

35. Question Everything

Vivify STEM Lessons

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Other STEM Resources

ChatGPT

15 Tips To Help Businesses Use AI And Automation Responsibly And Effectively (Forbes)

Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (UNESCO)

Rayyan - AI Powered Tool for Systematic Literature Reviews

AutoGPT Official

Join The STEM Space!

Game-Based Learning (GBL) Resources

Game Based Learning (YouTube)

A&M-developed calculus video game helps students pass, pursue STEM careers

Variant: Limits Educational Trailer (YouTube)

Variant: Limits (game)

TED Talk: The Effective Use of Game-Based Learning in Education

Texas A&M University LIVE Lab: Introduction to Game-Based Learning - Get 30% with code OMYM0G (course unavailable as of June 2024)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

]]>Vivify STEMNatasha continues her conversation with André Thomas, game-based learning expert and Director of the LIVE Lab in the Visualization program at Texas A&M University.In this episode, Natasha continues her conversation with André Thomas, game-based learning expert and Director of the LIVE Lab in the Visualization program at Texas A&M University. Explore the exciting world of artificial intelligence (AI) as André shares his views on how it can personalize learning experiences, enhance engagement, and potentially revolutionize various aspects of our lives. Sign up for André’s online course Introduction to Game-Based Learning and GET 30% OFF WITH CODE OMYM0Gfalse00:18:001111How AI will Transform Education ft. André ThomasfullHow AI will Transform Education ft. André Thomasinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips110. How to Implement Game-Based Learning ft. André ThomasClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 26 May 2023 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/110/how-to-implement-game-based-learning-ft-andre-thomas54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:646d00b0e12ed62b96cf1ce4Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha and André discusses game-based learning and its immense potential in any classroom setting. They talk about the difference between gamification and game-based learning, tips for engaging all students, and a not-to-be-missed online summer workshop providing educators with the chance to earn professional development credit hours.

André Thomas returns for an engaging discussion that will be shared over 2 episodes! In the next episode, they will talk about AI so we thought it would be fun to have ChatGPT provide his bio:

Renowned as both a game-based learning expert and a professor at Texas A&M University, André Thomas boasts an illustrious career that originated in the dynamic world of the movie industry. From crafting captivating graphics for blockbuster hits like Men in Black, he transitioned to the realm of game development, lending his artistic prowess to renowned titles such as Madden NFL. Now, drawing from his rich experiences, André employs his expertise to create immersive educational games that masterfully teach subjects like calculus. Join us as we delve into his fascinating journey and uncover the transformative power of game-based learning in education.

Links from the Show:

Texas A&M University LIVE Lab: Introduction to Game-Based Learning - GET 30% WITH CODE OMYM0G

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

68. Game-Based Learning with André Thomas

79. The Impact of STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The Importance of Failure

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Game-Based Learning (GBL) Resources

Five Reasons Why The Use Of Games In Education Is Cool (Article about Malta conference: Transform-ED: Education Through Gaming and AI)

Game Based Learning (YouTube)

A&M-developed calculus video game helps students pass, pursue STEM careers

Variant: Limits Educational Trailer (YouTube)

Variant: Limits (game)

TED Talk: The Effective Use of Game-Based Learning in Education

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

]]>Vivify STEMgame-based learning and its immense potential André Thomas returns for an engaging discussion that will be shared over 2 episodes! In this episode, Natasha and André discuss game-based learning and its immense potential in any classroom setting. They talk about the difference between gamification and game-based learning, tips for engaging all students, and a not-to-be-missed online summer workshop providing educators with the chance to earn professional development credit hours. In the next episode, they will talk about AI so we thought it would be fun to have ChatGPT provide his bio: Renowned as both a game-based learning expert and a professor at Texas A&M University, André Thomas boasts an illustrious career that originated in the dynamic world of the movie industry. From crafting captivating graphics for blockbuster hits like Men in Black, he transitioned to the realm of game development, lending his artistic prowess to renowned titles such as Madden NFL. Now, drawing from his rich experiences, André employs his expertise to create immersive educational games that masterfully teach subjects like calculus. Join us as we delve into his fascinating journey and uncover the transformative power of game-based learning in education.false00:23:511110How to Implement Game-Based Learning ft. André ThomasfullHow to Implement Game-Based Learning ft. André Thomasinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips109. Behind the Scenes of the G6 ft. Whitney HoltClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSTEM Career ChatsFri, 05 May 2023 13:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/109/behind-the-scenes-of-the-g6-ft-whitney-holt54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6453f165b6805d22a0f7215aShow Summary:

Have you heard the song “Like a G6”? The G6 is in reference to one of the most exclusive private jets in the world, the Gulfstream G650. In this episode, Natasha sits down with one of the engineers at Gulfstream, Whitney Holt, to talk all about this airplane, her role in aircraft simulation, and her journey to being an aerospace engineer. All the questions come from elementary and middle school Space Club students as part of the monthly Space Club Career Chats series. We invite you to share the video found on Vivify’s YouTube Channel with your students.

Video of Career Chat with Whitney

Girls Engineer It Day

Gulfstream

G600 Iron Bird First Flight

Lego Mindstorm Ev3 Core Set

Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Space Colony Competition

Related STEM Space Podcast Episodes

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

The STEM Space: Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOW NOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMDid you know that the G6 is in reference to one of the most exclusive private jets in the world, the Gulfstream G650?Have you heard the song “Like a G6”? The G6 is in reference to one of the most exclusive private jets in the world, the Gulfstream G650. In this episode, Natasha sits down with one of the engineers at Gulfstream, Whitney Holt, to talk all about this airplane, her role in aircraft simulation, and her journey to being an aerospace engineer. All the questions come from elementary and middle school Space Club students as part of the monthly Space Club Career Chats series. We invite you to share the video found on Vivify’s YouTube Channel with your students.false00:26:591109Behind the Scenes of the G6 ft. Whitney HoltfullBehind the Scenes of the G6 ft. Whitney Holtinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, STEM Career Chats108. A STEM Challenge with Earthquakes ft. Kristina OhlClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsVivify STEM LessonFri, 28 Apr 2023 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/108/a-stem-challenge-with-earthquakes-ft-kristina-ohl54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64433abb4d079456564c0d50Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire speaks with Kristina Ohl who created a 5E STEM lesson on earthquakes, complete with a DIY shake table. She shares her experience conducting this activity in the classroom and some tips for doing it with your students.

Kristina Ohl is a science teacher who strives to develop lessons that are engaging for all learners. She has taught as an outdoor educator and in many STEM roles from grades 3-8 and currently teaches middle school science. Her passion is improving access to quality STEM educational resources to positively impact the lives of all students. She lives in Arlington, Massachusetts with her fiancé and her rescue dog, Finley.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

66. Eco-House Sustainable STEM with Kristina Ohl

99. How to Teach Kids to Think Like a Scientist

18. What You Should Know About Failure

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Teaching STEM Through A Story

The Importance of Failure

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Earthquake STEM lesson

Engineering Design Classroom Posters for Bulletin Boards

Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit

Other STEM Resources

Outdoor, experiential and environmental education - CYC-Net

STCMS™: Earth's Dynamic Systems

New quake brings fresh losses to residents of Turkey, Syria - AP News

Email us your questions!

THE STEM SPACE SHOW NOTES

BECOME A STEM SPACE MEMBER

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]]>Vivify STEMAn engaging 5E STEM lesson with a DIY shake tableIn this episode of The STEM Space, Claire speaks with Kristina Ohl who created a 5E STEM lesson on earthquakes, complete with a DIY shake table. She shares her experience conducting this activity in the classroom and some tips for doing it with your students. Kristina Ohl is a science teacher who strives to develop lessons that are engaging for all learners. She has taught as an outdoor educator and in many STEM roles from grades 3-8 and currently teaches middle school science. Her passion is improving access to quality STEM educational resources to positively impact the lives of all students. She lives in Arlington, Massachusetts with her fiancé and her rescue dog, Finley.false00:14:111108A STEM Challenge with Earthquakes ft. Kristina OhlfullA STEM Challenge with Earthquakes ft. Kristina Ohlinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, Vivify STEM Lesson107. How Students Can Search for Asteroids ft. Dr. TrudiClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSTEM Career ChatsFri, 21 Apr 2023 11:48:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/107/how-students-can-search-for-asteroids-ft-dr-trudi54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64416cdc933302139a965642Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Dr. Trudi Hoogenboom, a planetary scientist and teacher. She shares her journey in science and the exciting work of her students in searching for unidentified asteroids. She shares how you can be involved in this citizen science project plus some advice for Space Club teams participating in the upcoming Space Colony Competition. This is an audio recording of Space Club Career Chats. You are invited to share the video with your students!

Dr. Trudi Hoogenboom is a Planetary Scientist and Planetary Science teacher with a PhD in Geophysics from the University of Leeds located in England. Dr. Trudi has worked as a research scientist at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Lunar and Planetary Institute, and the Arctic Planetary Science Institute. She co-authored the first topographic map of Io, a moon of Jupiter, and the first geological map of the massive asteroid 4 Vesta. Dr. Trudi joined Ad Astra/Astra Nova, a school founded by Elon Musk and Josh Dahn at SpaceX, teaching learners around the world to use astrophysical software to find main-belt asteroids, including AI detection of craters on the Moon, and glacier mapping on Mars. Her Astra Nova Asteroid Search Team students even located previously unidentified asteroids.

Links from the Show:

Lunar and Planetary Institute

The Arctic Planetary Science Institute

Astra Nova School

Pan-STARRS telescope (Hawaii)

Citizen Science: International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC)

Astrometrica

All About Ganymede (NASA)

All About Space Club

Video: STEM Career Chats: Dr Trudi (Planetary Researcher & Educator)

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Video: Space Club: Mission to Moon

Space Colony Competition

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

70. Career Chat with a Satellite Program Manager

76. Career Chat with an Astronaut

96. Chat with a Chemist ft Dr. Danna Freedman

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Explore the Universe: Science Astronomy Scavenger Hunt - FREE!

STEM Careers

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Subscribe to the free Vivify STEM Newsletter

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Dr. Trudi Hoogenboom, a planetary scientist and teacher. She shares her journey in science and the exciting work of her students in searching for unidentified asteroids.In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Dr. Trudi Hoogenboom, a planetary scientist and teacher. She shares her journey in science and the exciting work of her students in searching for unidentified asteroids. She shares how you can be involved in this citizen science project plus some advice for Space Club teams participating in the upcoming Space Colony Competition. This is an audio recording of Space Club Career Chats. You are invited to share the video with your students! false00:21:411107How Students Can Search for Asteroids ft. Dr. TrudifullHow Students Can Search for Asteroids ft. Dr. Trudiinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, STEM Career Chats106. Why is Engineering in K-12?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Apr 2023 18:08:27 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/106/why-is-engineering-in-k-1254807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6436e35a67e4871d8ddb90a7Show Summary:

Why should engineering be in K-12? Has the movement to include engineering improved the state of education? What exactly are students learning in an engineering design challenge? In this episode, Natasha discusses her dissertation research that explores these questions. She also provides an overview of efforts to define engineering learning goals and provides strategies to meaningfully integrate engineering in a science classroom.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

98. Who is an Engineer?

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

74. Rate My STEM Lesson

35. Question Everything

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Rate Your STEM Lesson

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Space Lander STEM Challenge

Elementary School (K-5th)

Upper Grades (5th-10th)

Space Capsule Heat Shield 5E Engineering Challenge (MS-PS3-3)

Antarctica Shelter STEM Challenge

Other STEM Resources

A Framework for Quality K-12 Engineering Education: Research and Development - TJ Moore

ABET.org

Designing Engineering Experiences to Engage All Students - Christine M. Cunningham and Cathy P. Lachapelle

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMWhat are students learning and how has it changed education?Why should engineering be in K-12? Has the movement to include engineering improved the state of education? What exactly are students learning in an engineering design challenge? In this episode, Natasha discusses her dissertation research that explores these questions. She also provides an overview of efforts to define engineering learning goals and provides strategies to meaningfully integrate engineering in a science classroom. false00:20:171106Why is Engineering in K-12?fullWhy is Engineering in K-12?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 31 Mar 2023 14:18:26 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/105/explaining-the-3-stages-of-stem-rebroadcast54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:64248add13cacb51363f7638Show Summary:

From towers to coding, planning out STEM lessons can be overwhelming and confusing. In this episode, which is a rebroadcast of our very first STEM Space episode, Claire and Natasha present The 3 Stages of STEM. Think of it as a way to map out your STEM curriculum with intentional learning progressions!

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

1. The 3 Stages of STEM (original broadcast)

65. How to Plan Your Year in STEM

78. Stage 3 STEM

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

99. How to Teach Kids to Think Like a Scientist

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

The ABCs of Kindergarten STEM

Teaching STEM Through A Story

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Tower STEM Challenges: 5 Icebreaker Activities

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - Grades K-3 or 4-10

Stage 1 STEM Activities - Develop STEM Foundations

Stage 2 STEM Activities - Apply to an Engineering Challenge

Stage 3 STEM Activities - Extend to an Open-Ended Engineering Problem

Other STEM Resources

Exploring STEM Like an Aerospace Engineer- Vivify STEM’s story

DoD STEM

Boeing Educational Resources

About Air Tractor

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Pitsco: Straw Rockets - Getting Started Package

The STEM Space Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMClaire and Natasha present The 3 Stages of STEM. Think of it as a way to map out your STEM curriculum with intentional learning progressions!From towers to coding, planning out STEM lessons can be overwhelming and confusing. In this episode, which is a rebroadcast of our very first STEM Space episode, Claire and Natasha present The 3 Stages of STEM. Think of it as a way to map out your STEM curriculum with intentional learning progressions!false00:14:421105Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM (rebroadcast)fullExplaining the 3 Stages of STEM (rebroadcast)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips104. How to Access the Free STEM Space LibraryClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 24 Mar 2023 18:50:03 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/104/how-to-access-the-free-stem-space-library54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6419f501b5e8260c466a13beShow Summary:

Claire and Natasha are excited to share Vivify's new way to access free STEM resources and connect with them! Tune in to find out how you can become a member of the STEM Space and learn about some interesting results from a recent survey that includes 600 responses from STEM teachers across the country.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

84. Show Me the Money for STEM

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

STEM Scope and Sequence (Pacing Guide)

Elementary School (K-5th)

Middle School (6th-8th)

STEM Space Lander Challenge

Elementary School (K-5th)

Upper Grades (5th-10th)

Other STEM Resources

Become a STEM Space Member!

Email us your questions!

STEM CON & Beyond: Virtual PD Conference for Teachers K-12

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

NGSS Official Website

Common Core State Standards

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMthe STEM Space membership and STEM teacher survey resultsClaire and Natasha are excited to share Vivify's new way to access free STEM resources and connect with them! Tune in to find out how you can become a member of the STEM Space and learn about some interesting results from a recent survey that includes 600 responses from STEM teachers across the country.false00:21:411104How to Access the Free STEM Space LibraryfullHow to Access the Free STEM Space Libraryinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips103. Teaching Light & Breaking MisconceptionsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 17 Mar 2023 10:44:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/103/teaching-light-and-breaking-misconceptions54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6410b26b3796337072858d99Show Summary:

How do I see an apple? Can I still see an apple in a dark room? Students have so many misconceptions about light, and in this episode, Natasha and Claire share a simple but eye-opening activity that will change the way your students understand light. They also share their “virtual pen pal” idea that bridges preservice elementary teachers with a class of 4th grade STEM students.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

99. How to Teach Kids to Think Like a Scientist

93. How Does Engineering Relate to Science?

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Critical Issues of K-12 Engineering Education

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Heat Shield Space Exploration STEM Challenge

Ultraviolet Solar Light Shelter STEM Challenge - K-5 or 5-8

England Pinhole Camera STEM Challenge

Other STEM Resources

UncoveringStudentIdeas.org

NSTA.org: Uncovering Student Ideas in Science Series

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Vivify STEM Newsletter

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMHow do I see an apple? Can I still see an apple in a dark room? Students have so many misconceptions about light, and in this episode, Natasha and Claire share a simple but eye-opening activity that will change the way your students understand light.How do I see an apple? Can I still see an apple in a dark room? Students have so many misconceptions about light, and in this episode, Natasha and Claire share a simple but eye-opening activity that will change the way your students understand light. They also share their “virtual pen pal” idea that bridges preservice elementary teachers with a class of 4th grade STEM students.false00:22:021103Teaching Light & Breaking MisconceptionsfullTeaching Light & Breaking Misconceptionsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips102. Celebrate World Water Day ft. MakeWaterClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 10 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/102/celebrate-world-water-day-ft-makewater54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6407857c5caa0a55758faf34Show Summary:

Join Natasha as she dives into the world of storytelling, STEM education, and citizen science! She chats with award-winning filmmaker and founder of MakeWater, Ryan Beltrán, as he shares his own personal story and the inspiration that led to developing a nonprofit that inspires through environmental science, technology, tinkering, and storytelling. He also shares an exciting way to celebrate World Water Day through citizen science in your classroom!

Join the MakeWater Competition to win a kit! Post a water story on social media with the hashtag #makewaterstory for a chance to win one of 1,000 kits, classroom bundles, or a 3D printer! One grand prize winner will have their story turned into a short film!

About MakeWater: MakeWater’s mission is to empower students to make a difference by becoming citizen scientists and tackling water issues collaboratively. Through an innovative, STEAM-based, and environmentally-focused curriculum and competitions. MakeWater makes hands-on education accessible and inspires students to seek education and career paths that change the communities in which they live, study, and work. 

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

79. The Impact of STEM

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Teaching STEM Through A Story

Other STEM Resources

World Water Day

MakeWater

SA Smart Challenge

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMJoin Natasha as she dives into the world of storytelling, STEM education, and citizen science with award-winning filmmaker and founder of MakeWater, Ryan Beltrán!Join Natasha as she dives into the world of storytelling, STEM education, and citizen science! She chats with award-winning filmmaker and founder of MakeWater, Ryan Beltrán, as he shares his own personal story and the inspiration that led to developing a nonprofit that inspires through environmental science, technology, tinkering, and storytelling. He also shares an exciting way to celebrate World Water Day through citizen science in your classroom!false00:27:511102Celebrate World Water Day ft. MakeWaterfullCelebrate World Water Day ft. MakeWaterinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips101. How ChatGPT Will Transform EducationClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 03 Mar 2023 12:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/101/how-chatgpt-will-transform-education54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63fe6b0193476e5c48a68feaShow Summary:

Have you heard of ChatGPT, the AI-powered language model that's transforming education? In this podcast episode, Claire and I explore the use of ChatGPT in the classroom, discussing its potential to enhance teaching and learning. We share examples of how this technology can be used to provide personalized learning experiences, assist with grading and assessment, and foster critical thinking skills in students. We also address ethical considerations and offer practical tips for teachers looking to incorporate ChatGPT into their teaching practice. Whether you're an educator or simply interested in the latest developments in education technology, this episode is a must-listen.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

35. Question Everything

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Other STEM Resources

ChatGPT

Apple Podcast: HIBT Lab! OpenAI: Sam Altman

The STEM Space Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/101/how-chatgpt-will-transform-education

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

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VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMChatGPT is transforming education! We discuss how this technology can be used to provide personalized learning experiences and more!Have you heard of ChatGPT, the AI-powered language model that's transforming education? In this podcast episode, Claire and I explore the use of ChatGPT in the classroom, discussing its potential to enhance teaching and learning. We share examples of how this technology can be used to provide personalized learning experiences, assist with grading and assessment, and foster critical thinking skills in students. We also address ethical considerations and offer practical tips for teachers looking to incorporate ChatGPT into their teaching practice. Whether you're an educator or simply interested in the latest developments in education technology, this episode is a must-listen.false00:20:521101How ChatGPT Will Transform EducationfullHow ChatGPT Will Transform Educationinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips100. Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Lesson on Exploring Air ResistanceClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 25 Feb 2023 02:55:45 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/100/celebrating-100-episodes-a-lesson-on-exploring-air-resistance54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63f53c9a2a17ed7bbc19b768Show Summary:

Welcome to episode 100 of The STEM Space! In celebration, Natasha and Claire rant about one of their favorite topics: why does science education always ignore aerodynamic drag? In this episode, Natasha shares a simple science inquiry lab on exploring whether all objects fall at the same rate, the results from her students, and then how they applied an understanding of gravity and drag to an engineering design challenge.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

93. How Does Engineering Relate to Science?

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge

STEM Balloon Rocket Design Challenge

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge

Elementary (K-3)

Upper Grades (4-10)

Alphabet STEM - Activities for Letter D (includes drag device challenge; for PreK - 1st grade!)

STEM Space Lander

Elementary (K-5)

Upper Grades (5-10)

Other STEM Resources

The STEM Space Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/100/celebrating-100-episodes-a-lesson-on-exploring-air-resistance

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

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VIVIFY FACEBOOK

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VIVIFY TIKTOK

VIVIFY YOUTUBE

]]>Vivify STEMWelcome to episode 100 of The STEM Space! In celebration, Natasha and Claire rant about one of their favorite topics: why does science education always ignore aerodynamic drag?Welcome to episode 100 of The STEM Space! In celebration, Natasha and Claire rant about one of their favorite topics: why does science education always ignore aerodynamic drag? In this episode, Natasha shares a simple science inquiry lab on exploring whether all objects fall at the same rate, the results from her students, and then how they applied an understanding of gravity and drag to an engineering design challenge.false00:16:351100Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Lesson on Exploring Air ResistancefullCelebrating 100 Episodes: A Lesson on Exploring Air Resistanceinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips99. How to Teach Kids to Think Like a ScientistClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 17 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/99/how-to-teach-kids-to-think-like-a-scientist54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63ebec9efaf29701c0c82ab7Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha discuss simple lessons to help your students develop scientific thinking and better understand how science works. From trying to guess a mystery object to using creativity to design their own investigations, Natasha shares some activities from her own classroom that build confidence in her students and create a classroom environment driven by inquiry.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

93. How Does Engineering Relate to Science?

76. Career Chat with an Astronaut

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

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Must Haves for a STEM Lab

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Design a Mars Colony: STEM / STEAM Project Guide

Mission to Mars: K-5 or 6-8

Other STEM Resources

Pedagogical Strategies and Practices

Vivify YouTube: Mission to Mars Student Highlights

Fun Space Videos:

Alka-Seltzer in Space

7 Minutes of Terror: The Challenges of Getting to Mars

Karen Nyberg Shows How You Wash Hair in Space

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/99/how-to-teach-kids-to-think-like-a-scientist

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

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]]>Vivify STEMClaire and Natasha discuss simple lessons to help your students develop scientific thinking and better understand how science works.Claire and Natasha discuss simple lessons to help your students develop scientific thinking and better understand how science works. From trying to guess a mystery object to using creativity to design their own investigations, Natasha shares some activities from her own classroom that build confidence in her students and create a classroom environment driven by inquiry. false00:20:39199How to Teach Kids to Think Like a ScientistfullHow to Teach Kids to Think Like a Scientistinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips98. Who is an Engineer?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 10 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/98/who-is-an-engineer54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63e2a483b4e4ac2677dc3e89Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha discuss how the history of engineering education tends to focus on the evolution of the departments and colleges of engineering, but what about the female-dominated home economics fields of study? Around 1930 to 1950, women could major in household equipment, which focused on a scientifically based understanding of household technologies. Students took physics and math classes and conducted labs that involved dismantling refrigerators to assess the application of thermodynamic principles. Sounds like engineering to me! Listen for more of this fascinating history and our ideas of what all students should know about engineering and technology.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

79. The Impact of STEM

58. Are You Training Up Innovators?

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Critical Issues of K-12 Engineering Education

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Space Capsule Heat Shield Challenge - 5E Unit or Engineering Design Unit

FREE Picture a STEM Professional Critical Thinking Worksheet

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge - Women in STEM History Activity

Starter STEM Activities Engineering Challenges

Other STEM Resources

The Evolution of Engineering in the 20th Century (book)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/98/who-is-an-engineer

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

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]]>Vivify STEMClaire and Natasha discuss how the history of engineering education tends to focus on the evolution of the departments and colleges of engineering, but what about the female-dominated home economics fields of study?Claire and Natasha discuss how the history of engineering education tends to focus on the evolution of the departments and colleges of engineering, but what about the female-dominated home economics fields of study? Around 1930 to 1950, women could major in household equipment, which focused on a scientifically based understanding of household technologies. Students took physics and math classes and conducted labs that involved dismantling refrigerators to assess the application of thermodynamic principles. Sounds like engineering to me! Listen for more of this fascinating history and our ideas of what all students should know about engineering and technology. false00:19:06198Who is an Engineer?fullWho is an Engineer?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips97. Robots and Computer Science ft Hal SpeedClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSTEM Career ChatsFri, 03 Feb 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/97/robots-and-computer-science-ft-hal-speed54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63d43b1aba0c261a778bb84aShow Summary:

In this episode, Claire has the privilege of chatting with the head of Robotical for North America, Hal Speed, who has a passion for promoting computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence among other technology concepts and skills with the next generation of problem solvers. Tune in to hear about a new robot that you can try for free and find out how you can bring more tech skills to your students.

Links from the Show:

From this Episode

Marty the Robot

—>Free Trial 

—>Learning Resources

tinyML EDU K-12 (it includes links for AI4K12, AI for Teachers, etc.)

K-12 CS Framework

Code.org

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

94. How Sphero Supports STEM Teachers ft. Michelle Acaley

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

15 Ways to Teach Robotics Virtually

How to Start an After School STEM Club

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Robot Hand STEM Activity

Alphabet STEM - Activities for Letter R (for PreK - 1st grade)

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Explore real-world careers, applications, and places in the world of technology through tech choice boards!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/97/robots-and-computer-science-ft-hal-speed

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

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]]>Vivify STEMA chat with Robotical's Hal Speed!In this episode, Claire has the privilege of chatting with the head of Robotical for North America, Hal Speed, who has a passion for promoting computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence among other technology concepts and skills with the next generation of problem solvers. Tune in to hear about a new robot that you can try for free and find out how you can bring more tech skills to your students.false00:38:43197Robots and Computer Science ft Hal SpeedfullRobots and Computer Science ft Hal Speedinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, STEM Career Chats96. Chat with a Chemist ft Dr. Danna FreedmanClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSTEM Career ChatsFri, 27 Jan 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/96/chat-with-a-chemist-ft-dr-danna-freedman54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63d2cee44a557a0a1160ecb4Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with Dr. Danna Freedman, a professor of chemistry at MIT in Boston, MA. They discuss her pathway to chemistry, the challenges of teaching and mentoring, and her coolest failure. You are also welcome to share the video recording of this podcast with students. The questions Natasha asks are based on submissions from Space Club elementary and middle school kids around the country.

Links from the Show:

All About Space Club

Video: Career Chat: Dr. Danna Freedman (Chemist)

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Video: Space Club: Mission to Moon

Video: Space Club: Mission to Mars

Space Colony Competition by Vivify

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas

53: Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. Olesen

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

70. Career Chat with a Satellite Program Manager

76. Career Chat with an Astronaut

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Explore the Universe: Science Astronomy Scavenger Hunt - FREE!

STEM Careers

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

About Dr. Danna Freedman

YouTube: Danna Freedman Synthetic Inorganic Chemist | 2022 MacArthur Fellow

MacArthur Foundation profile

Freedman Laboratory at MIT

Wikipedia: SQUID Magnetometer

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/96/chat-with-a-chemist-ft-dr-danna-freedman

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]]>Vivify STEMA career chat about being a chemistIn this episode, Natasha chats with Dr. Danna Freedman, a professor of chemistry at MIT in Boston, MA. They discuss her pathway to chemistry, the challenges of teaching and mentoring, and her coolest failure. You are also welcome to share the video recording of this podcast with students. The questions Natasha asks are based on submissions from Space Club elementary and middle school kids around the country.false00:23:46196Chat with a Chemist ft Dr. Danna FreedmanfullChat with a Chemist ft Dr. Danna Freedmaninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, STEM Career Chats95. Colony Competitions, Wheelchairs, and More in 2023Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 20 Jan 2023 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/95/colony-competitions-wheelchairs-and-more-in-202354807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63c6e1f2ccccbc05ce22294fShow Summary:

Claire and Natasha are talking all things 2023 and what to expect from Vivify! Listen in to learn about big projects like the Colony Competition, Wheelchairs, and a big thing that they are working on with Scope and Sequence!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

33. My Students Built A Wheelchair

75. Space Colony Competition

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Go on a Mission to Mars! An inside look into Space Club’s Mission to Mars

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Family Night Planning Guide, Activity Instructions

Colony Project Guides

Design a Moon Base: STEM / STEAM Project Guide

Design a Mars Colony: STEM / STEAM Project Guide

Science Fair Guide: Steps to Success

STEM Scope and Sequence (Pacing Guide) - FREE!

Elementary School (K - 5th)

Middle School (6th - 8th)

Sub Lesson Templates for a STEM Classroom

Other STEM Resources

Space Colony Competition

Open Wheelchair Foundation

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (in partnership with Vivify)

Fall 2022 Space Colony Competition

YouTube: Space Colony Competition Trailer

YouTube: Space Colony Competition Award Ceremony (December 2022)

TikTok: Meet the Teams

TikTok: Space Colony Competition - Teams and Judges

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

The STEM Space Quick Tips

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2023/95/colony-competitions-wheelchairs-and-more-in-2023

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]]>Vivify STEMBig things are happeningClaire and Natasha are talking all things 2023 and what to expect from Vivify! Listen in to learn about big projects like the Colony Competition, Wheelchairs, and a big thing that they are working on with Scope and Sequence!false00:21:54195Colony Competitions, Wheelchairs, and More in 2023fullColony Competitions, Wheelchairs, and More in 2023info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips94. How Sphero Supports STEM Teachers ft. Michelle AcaleyClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 16 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/94/how-sphero-supports-stem-teachers-ft-michelle-acaley54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:639a17fea76c272a3ca26f2cShow Summary:

This episode is all about robotics and one of our favorite STEM companies, Sphero! Natasha chats with Sphero’s Senior Director of Product and Content, Michelle Acaley. Michelle started as a classroom teacher in New York City and Chicago before moving into education technology. She is passionate about ensuring Sphero has a content-first approach so that all products Sphero builds have a purpose in education and can become tools to teach Computer Science and STEAM throughout the curriculum.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

9. STEM with Sphero Robotics

18. What You Should Know About Failure

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

5 Tips for STEM Learning with Sphero Robotics

Basics of Sphero Robotics + 3 Awesome Sphero STEM Activities

10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

10 Must Have STEM Tools

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Robotics Programming Maze Challenge - FREE!

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Other STEM Resources

Sphero

Products:

indi

Bolt

RVR+

littleBits

Sphero EDU

Computer Science Foundations course

Sphero Global Challenge

littleBits: Invent for Good

Sphero Heroes

Raspberry Pi Foundation

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/94/how-sphero-supports-stem-teachers-ft-michelle-acaley

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]]>Vivify STEMThis episode is all about robotics and one of our favorite STEM companies, Sphero!This episode is all about robotics and one of our favorite STEM companies, Sphero! Natasha chats with Sphero’s Senior Director of Product and Content, Michelle Acaley. Michelle started as a classroom teacher in New York City and Chicago before moving into education technology. She is passionate about ensuring Sphero has a content-first approach so that all products Sphero builds have a purpose in education and can become tools to teach Computer Science and STEAM throughout the curriculum. false00:24:34194How Sphero Supports STEM Teachers ft. Michelle AcaleyfullHow Sphero Supports STEM Teachers ft. Michelle Acaleyinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips93. How Does Engineering Relate to Science?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 09 Dec 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/93/how-does-engineering-relate-to-science54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63882375c9bdec7e70553656Show Summary:

Natasha and Claire expand upon a recent blog post discussing how to teach engineering in the science classroom. How do engineering and science relate to each other? What do you do with the NGSS standards? Listen in to find out! (You may also hear baby Fenya’s very strong opinions about this in the background!)

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

58. Are You Training Up Innovators?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Critical Issues of K-12 Engineering Education

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Diet Coke + Mentos Balloon Experiment

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NGSS Standards - Official Website

NGSS Phenomena

Engineering is Elementary by Christine M. Cunningham

ETS: Engineering, Technology and the Application of Science

Limnic Eruptions in Africa

Lake Monoun - 1984

Lake Nyos - 1986

Defusing Africa’s Killer Lakes | Smithsonian Magazine

Invisible Extinguisher | Science Fun

“The impact of NGSS and STEM on Elementary Science Instruction” - Joanne K Olson

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/93/how-does-engineering-relate-to-science

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]]>Vivify STEMShould science be taught through engineering activities?Natasha and Claire expand upon a recent blog post discussing how to teach engineering in the science classroom. How do engineering and science relate to each other? What do you do with the NGSS standards? Listen in to find out! (You may also hear baby Fenya’s very strong opinions about this in the background!)false00:31:27193How Does Engineering Relate to Science?fullHow Does Engineering Relate to Science?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 02 Dec 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/92/unpacking-the-ngss-ft-molly-seward-k-4-science-coach54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:636ae2dedfddc74200f90dd4Show Summary:

This is part 2 of Natasha’s conversation with Molly Seward, a K-4 STEM teacher and Coach in Indiana with 37 years of teaching experience. The episode tackles the Next Generation Science Standards including strategies to make them more manageable for teachers. We also discuss how to plan a learning progression for a STEM classroom.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

Part 1 - 91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

60. Why Should You Have More Than One Solution?

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

54. HELP! My Students Are Struggling With TEAMWORK!

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Critical Issues of K-12 Engineering Education

Engineering in the Science Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Candy Grabber Math & Engineering Activity

Simple Machines Toy Factory STEM Challenge

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge (Forces & Motion)

Editable Budget Sheet for Engineering Design Challenges - FREE!

6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities

Other STEM Resources

NGSS Standards - Official Website

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

NGSS Phenomena

8 Facts About the Grand Canyon You Never Knew from the National Park Foundation

‘I Wonder’ Questions: Harnessing the Power of Inquiry from George Lucas Educational Foundation - Edutopia

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/92/unpacking-the-ngss-ft-molly-seward-k-4-science-coach

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]]>Vivify STEMThis is part 2 of Natasha’s conversation with Molly Seward, a K-4 STEM teacher and Coach in Indiana with 37 years of teaching experience.This is part 2 of Natasha’s conversation with Molly Seward, a K-4 STEM teacher and Coach in Indiana with 37 years of teaching experience. The episode tackles the Next Generation Science Standards including strategies to make them more manageable for teachers. We also discuss how to plan a learning progression for a STEM classroom. false00:25:12192Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)fullUnpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 25 Nov 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/91/defining-stem-ft-molly-seward-k-4-stem-teacher54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:636ae14199891909a10933bdShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with Molly Seward, a K-4 STEM teacher and coach in Indiana. She has been teaching for 37 years, including being a robotics coach for the last 9 years, and selected as the 2005 Indiana Teacher of the year! The conversation is divided into 2 episodes. The first will focus on her experiences as a classroom STEM teacher and her goals for students. In the next episode, she will share her knowledge as a science coach including how to tackle the Next Generation Science Standards.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

18. What You Should Know About Failure

87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?

26. Making Time for STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

24. Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

8. STEM vs. STEAM+

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The Importance of Failure

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Other STEM Resources

VEX GO Robotics

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/91/defining-stem-ft-molly-seward-k-4-stem-teacher

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Molly Seward, a K-4 STEM teacher and coach in Indiana. She has been teaching for 37 years, including being a robotics coach for the last 9 years, and selected as the 2005 Indiana Teacher of the year!In this episode, Natasha chats with Molly Seward, a K-4 STEM teacher and coach in Indiana. She has been teaching for 37 years, including being a robotics coach for the last 9 years, and selected as the 2005 Indiana Teacher of the year! The conversation is divided into 2 episodes. The first will focus on her experiences as a classroom STEM teacher and her goals for students. In the next episode, she will share her knowledge as a science coach including how to tackle the Next Generation Science Standards. false00:19:10191Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)fullDefining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips90. We Launched a Weather BalloonClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 18 Nov 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/90/we-launched-a-weather-balloon54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63707987bdadc80a41e2d065Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire recap their experience launching a high-altitude weather balloon! This epic project is an impactful way to incorporate real-world STEM into your classroom and takes your students on a wild adventure. Hear about the trials and successes of our latest weather balloon launch!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

Previous Weather Balloon Episodes:

- 27. Launching A High Altitude Balloon

- 30. Launching A High Altitude Balloon Part 2

79. The Impact of STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Launching Weather Balloons

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

The Importance of Failure

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Technology Choice Board Bundle - STEM Careers, Field Trip, & Types of Tech

FREE! - Interview Questions to ask STEM Professionals

Other STEM Resources

Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST)

Article from Texas A&M: Aerospace engineering former students bring engineering to life for kids of all ages

Vivify STEM YouTube: How to Launch a Weather Balloon to the Edge of Space: STEM Project Guide

Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS)

Search for The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Affiliated Clubs

AccuWeather: Here’s why meteorologists launch weather balloons every day

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]]>Vivify STEMAn epic experience to the edge of space!In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire recap their experience launching a high altitude weather balloon! This epic project is an impactful way to incorporate real-world STEM into your classroom and takes your students on a wild adventure. Hear about the trials and successes of our latest weather balloon launch!false00:27:25190We Launched a Weather BalloonfullWe Launched a Weather Ballooninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips89. Chat with a Physics Teacher ft. Jonathan Stancek (DoD STEM Ambassador)Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSTEM Career ChatsFri, 11 Nov 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/89/chat-with-a-physics-teacher-ft-jonathan-stancek-dod-stem-ambassador54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6362ed2b14626c724c618079Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Jonathan Stancek, a physics teacher in the Design & Technology Academy at Roosevelt High School in San Antonio, Texas. We discuss his journey from studying engineering to entering the classroom and his experience teaching math, engineering, and science. We discuss how to better prepare students for the rigor of high school and beyond, plus some of his favorite STEM projects! Jonathan is also a DoD STEM Ambassador Program for the 2022-23 school year (chosen by the U.S. Department of Defense), and he shares some incredible resources for teachers and students including curriculum, internships, scholarships, and more.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

73. Does STEM Track?

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

16. Everything You Know About Learning Styles Is Wrong

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

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STEM Careers

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity (Angles and Ratios)

Other STEM Resources

DoD STEM Ambassador Program

Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program

Grudge Ball Review Game

Trust in the Truss: Design a Wooden Bridge STEM activity

National Math & Science Initiative

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/89/chat-with-a-physics-teacher-ft-jonathan-stancek-dod-stem-ambassador

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Jonathan Stancek, a high school physics teacher in San Antonio, Texas. We discuss his journey from studying engineering to entering the classroom and his experience teaching math, engineering, and science.In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Jonathan Stancek, a high school physics teacher in San Antonio, Texas. We discuss his journey from studying engineering to entering the classroom and his experience teaching math, engineering, and science. We discuss how to better prepare students for the rigor of high school and beyond, plus some of his favorite STEM projects! Jonathan is also a Department of Defense STEM Ambassador, and he shares some incredible resources for teachers and students including curriculum, internships, scholarships, and more.false00:25:43189Chat with a Physics Teacher ft. Jonathan Stancek (DoD STEM Ambassador)fullChat with a Physics Teacher ft. Jonathan Stancek (DoD STEM Ambassador)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, STEM Career Chats88. What Does a Brain Feel Like? ft. Maria GarzaClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSTEM Career ChatsFri, 04 Nov 2022 10:44:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/88/what-does-a-brain-feel-like-ft-maria-garza54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:636033b6e6d9986e3f0a86f4Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with Maria Garza, a neuroscientist in San Antonio, Texas. They discuss her research on blind mice, what it feels like to touch a brain and all sorts of interesting questions submitted by elementary and middle school students. This is the audio recording for a Space Club Career Chat that is posted on YouTube and linked in our show notes. We invite you to share this episode or video with your students!

Links from the Show:

All About Space Club

Video: Career Chat: Maria Garza (Neuroscientist)

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Video: Space Club: Mission to Moon

Video: Space Club: Mission to Mars

Space Club STEM Career Chats (YouTube Playlist)

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

Previous Career Chat Episodes:

76. Career Chat with an Astronaut

72. Astrophysics and Weightlifting with Dr. Roman Gomez

70. Career Chat with a Satellite Program Manager

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

53: Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. Olesen

46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Maria’s Guest Blog Post: A Neuroscientists’s Top 5 STEM Activities for Kids & Families

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

The Brain the Changes Itself - Norman Doidge (book)

Coursera - Medical Neuroscience by Dr. White at Duke University

Euclidean Geometry and Navigation

Learn Amigurumi: The Adorable Art of Knitting and Crocheting Small Creatures

The Shadown and Bone Trilogy - Boxed Set (books)

National Library of Medicine - Space–brain: The negative effects of space exposure on the central nervous system

Mayo Clinic - Chiari malformation

Raffle Prizes on this Career Chat:

mberry Miracle Berry Tablets

USB Microscope

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/88/what-does-a-brain-feel-like-ft-maria-garza

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Maria Garza, a neuroscientist in San Antonio, Texas. They discuss her research on blind mice, what it feels like to touch a brain and all sorts of interesting questions submitted by elementary and middle school students.In this episode, Natasha chats with Maria Garza, a neuroscientist in San Antonio, Texas. They discuss her research on blind mice, what it feels like to touch a brain and all sorts of interesting questions submitted by elementary and middle school students. This is the audio recording for a Space Club Career Chat that is posted on YouTube and linked in our show notes. We invite you to share this episode or video with your students! false00:28:54188What Does a Brain Feel Like? ft. Maria GarzafullWhat Does a Brain Feel Like? ft. Maria Garzainfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips, STEM Career Chats87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 28 Oct 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/87/how-is-stem-more-than-a-problem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6352e8a34ffc762fb4d4643bShow Summary:

In today’s episode of The STEM Space, Claire shares an epiphany she had about teaching engineering to her students. Engineering and STEM tend to focus on identifying and solving a problem, but Claire proposes a shift for the way we frame engineering to one that is more inclusive, promotes empathy, and emphasizes growth mindset.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

79. The Impact of STEM (has Claire’s apple cobbler recipe)

68. Game Based Learning with André Thomas

60. Why Should You Have More Than One Solution?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

12 Ways to Boose Social-Emotional Learning with STEM

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Roller Coaster STEM Activity

Design a Mars Colony: STEM / STEAM Project Guide

Engineering Design Teacher Slides - FREE in the STEM Explorer Library!

Other STEM Resources

Invention Convention

Smart City Challenge 2022

Article/Study: Shower thoughts explained! Scientists figure out why we get great ideas while washing

Aqua Notes Water Proof Note Pad (Vivify Amazon Affiliate Link)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/87/how-is-stem-more-than-a-problem

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]]>Vivify STEMEngineering and STEM tend to focus on identifying and solving a problem, but Claire proposes a shift for the way we frame engineering to one that is more inclusive, promotes empathy, and emphasizes growth mindset.In today’s episode of The STEM Space, Claire shares an epiphany she had about teaching engineering to her students. Engineering and STEM tend to focus on identifying and solving a problem, but Claire proposes a shift for the way we frame engineering to one that is more inclusive, promotes empathy, and emphasizes growth mindset.false00:13:42187How is STEM More Than a Problem?fullHow is STEM More Than a Problem?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips86. A Parent's Perspective of STEM Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 21 Oct 2022 11:19:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/86/a-parents-perspective-of-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:633f7088d4791b16aff380dbShow Summary:

In today's episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with a special guest, Christy Hall. She joined Claire and Natasha recently in hosting a virtual Space competition called Space Teams, and we reflect on our experiences interviewing astronauts and space architects! Natasha talks with her about Claire, who is the STEM teacher for her two children! She gives an incredible perspective as a parent watching her kids discover STEM learning. We chat about weather balloons and animal habitats and what she believes has been the most valuable lesson her kids have learned from Claire. Enjoy!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

83. How to Engage Families with STEM

81. Join a Virtual Space Mission [Space Teams]

58. Are You Training Up Innovators?

31. Reflections from a First Year STEM Teacher

Launching A High Altitude Balloon

27. Launching A High Altitude Balloon

30. Launching A High Altitude Balloon Part 2

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

The Importance of Failure

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Careers

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Animal Habitat & Biomes STEM

STEM Scope and Sequence (Pacing Guide) - FREE!

Elementary (K - 5th)

Middle School (6th - 8th)

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

STEM Family Night Planning Guide, Activity Instructions, Posters

6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities (includes Space Docking activity)

Other STEM Resources

Space Teams

YouTube: Space Teams Greg Johnson Interview with Claire and Christy

Henry Ford Invention Convention

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/86/a-parents-perspective-of-stem

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha and special guest, Christy Hall, discuss the Space competition known as Space Teams as well as Claire's impact on Christy's children as their STEM teacher.In today's episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with a special guest, Christy Hall. She joined Claire and Natasha recently in hosting a virtual Space competition called Space Teams, and we reflect on our experiences interviewing astronauts and space architects! Natasha talks with her about Claire, who is the STEM teacher for her two children! She gives an incredible perspective as a parent watching her kids discover STEM learning. We chat about weather balloons and animal habitats and what she believes has been the most valuable lesson her kids have learned from Claire. Enjoy!false00:21:52186A Parent's Perspective of STEM fullA Parent's Perspective of STEM info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips85. How to Navigate Vivify STEM's ResourcesClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/85/how-to-navigate-vivify-stems-resources54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:633de13e60ed0d204fc5a3f6Show Summary:

UPDATE: AS OF 2024, OUR RESOURCES ARE NOW INCLUDED IN EITHER THE FREE OR ALL-ACCESS MEMBERSHIP LIBRARIES! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! (Note: the All-Access Library membership is a full 365 days of access, while access to the free Explorer Library has no expiry.)

Are you a STEM educator or parent looking for guidance and resources? Claire and Natasha walk you through the Vivify STEM website which is packed with tons of free resources including instructional videos, activities, and more. Want to plan a year-long STEM program? Read our curriculum map post. Need holiday STEM activities? Download for free from our resource library. We show you all these resources plus how to connect with STEM professionals, join Space Club, check out the latest in STEM websites and competitions, and more!

Click here to watch this episode on our YouTube channel!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

74. Rate My STEM Lesson

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

65. How to Plan Your Year in STEM

21. Teaching Fads: Should You Teach STEM?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?

Sub Plans for a STEM Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Scope and Sequence (Pacing Guide) - FREE in the STEM Space!

Sub Lesson Templates for a STEM Classroom

Other STEM Resources

Texas A&M Projects: 4-D Plus Printing of Multifunctional Metallic Materials

YouTube Video: Action Origami Paper Monkey with Cymbals

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Blog: STEM Curriculum: Mission to Moon

Blog: Go on a Mission to Mars! An inside look into Space Club’s Mission to Mars

Video: Space Club Mission to Moon Project Highlights Video

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Project Highlights Video

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

Vivify STEM store

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]]>Vivify STEMA tour of Vivify's website! UPDATE: AS OF 2024, OUR RESOURCES ARE NOW INCLUDED IN EITHER THE FREE OR ALL-ACCESS MEMBERSHIP LIBRARIES! PLEASE VISIT https://www.vivifystem.com/the-stem-space-membership TO BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! (Note: the All-Access Library membership is a full 365 days of access, while access to the free Explorer Library has no expiry.) Are you a STEM educator or parent looking for guidance and resources? Claire and Natasha walk you through the Vivify STEM website which is packed with tons of free resources including instructional videos, activities, and more. Want to plan a year-long STEM program? Read our curriculum map post. Need holiday STEM activities? Download for free from our resource library. We show you all these resources plus how to connect with STEM professionals, join Space Club, check out the latest in STEM websites and competitions, and more!false00:19:12185How to Navigate Vivify STEM's ResourcesfullHow to Navigate Vivify STEM's Resourcesinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips84. Show Me the Money for STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 07 Oct 2022 22:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/84/show-me-the-money-for-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6332725be23c935ddd5b53c9Show Summary:

Have you been spending your own money on STEM supplies? We are here to help! In this episode, Natasha and Claire discuss ways to get money for your STEM program. Whether you are interested in writing grants or reaching out to potential donors, we are sharing all of our tips and tricks to get you funded.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

83. How to Engage Families with STEM

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

52: How to Host a STEM Family Night

43. How Do We Define Success In STEM?

29. Why Do We Teach Engineering in Schools?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

5 Steps to Get STEM Funding

Must Haves for a STEM Lab

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

STEM Family Night Planning Guide, Activity Instructions, Posters

Other STEM Resources

LEGO Classic Medium Creative Brick Box (Vivify STEM Amazon Affiliate link)

ZOOB 250-Piece Set (Vivify STEM Amazon Affiliate link)

AIAA Foundation Classroom Grant Program

Grants for Education | Air & Space Forces Association

DonorsChoose.org

News Article: Toyota Texas San Antonio invests over $200,000 in local STEM education

News Article: STEM Programs Expand to Include More San Antonio Students (Boeing)

STEMfinity.com

Walmart Community Grants

Candid.org

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School! (Now FREE!)

Blog: STEM Curriculum: Mission to Moon

Blog: Go on a Mission to Mars! An inside look into Space Club’s Mission to Mars

Video: Space Club Mission to Moon Project Highlights Video

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Project Highlights Video

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

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]]>Vivify STEMHave you been spending your own money on STEM Supplies? We are here to help!Have you been spending your own money on STEM supplies? We are here to help! In this episode, Natasha and Claire discuss ways to get money for your STEM program. Whether you are interested in writing grants or reaching out to potential donors, we are sharing all of our tips and tricks to get you funded. false00:24:09184Show Me the Money for STEMfullShow Me the Money for STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips83. How to Engage Families with STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 30 Sep 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/83/how-to-engage-families-with-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:632b30f1e62394753f87b651Show Summary:

Getting families involved with your school can be rewarding in many ways. Showcase your STEM program by hosting a STEM Family Night! Tune in as Claire shares her recent experience of hosting one and ways you can successfully get parents excited about STEM at your school too.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

67. Is STEM After School Effective?

52: How to Host a STEM Family Night

31. Reflections from a First Year STEM Teacher

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

A Neuroscientists’s Top 5 STEM Activities for Kids & Families

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, STEM Activity Instructions, Posters

Individual stations Claire mentions:

Hoop Glider Challenge

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - K-3 or 4-10

Amazing Architects: STEM Family Night Task Cards

STEM Sailboat Challenge

Microscope Mystery: Life Science Center

Other STEM Resources

Pitsco Education Straw Rockets - Starter Kit

Quiver App - AR Coloring

App Store

Google Play

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/83/how-to-engage-families-with-stem

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]]>Vivify STEMHost a STEM Family Night wellGetting families involved with your school can be rewarding in many ways. Showcase your STEM program by hosting a STEM Family Night! Tune in as Claire shares her recent experience of hosting one and ways you can successfully get parents excited about STEM at your school too. false00:29:19183How to Engage Families with STEMfullHow to Engage Families with STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips82. How to Rock it with RocketsClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 23 Sep 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/82/how-to-rock-it-with-rockets54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63234a50800ec03c831d0ebcShow Summary:

Have you used rockets in your classroom or program? They have the potential to launch your students into a love for STEM, but there can also be some misconceptions that need to be addressed. In this episode, Claire and Natasha are sharing their experiences and advice on how you can rock it with rockets!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

52: How to Host a STEM Family Night

45. The Best STEM Challenge Ever

39. How Did We Get Here?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Launch Rockets blog posts

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - K-3 or 4-10

Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, STEM Activity Instructions, Posters

STEM Balloon Rocket Design Challenge

Other STEM Resources

NASA Artemis

NASA's Final Space Shuttle Launch 10th Anniversary Replay

Estes Alpha III Model Rocket (Vivify Amazon Affiliate link)

Grants for Education | Air & Space Forces Association

Pitsco Education Straw Rockets - Starter Kit

NASA Video: Apollo 15 Proves Galileo Correct (Hammer & Feather on Moon)

The American Rocketry Challenge (TARC)

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/82/how-to-rock-it-with-rockets

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]]>Vivify STEMHave you used rockets in your classroom or program?Have you used rockets in your classroom or program? They have the potential to launch your students into a love for STEM, but there can also be some misconceptions that need to be addressed. In this episode, Claire and Natasha are sharing their experiences and advice on how you can rock it with rockets! false00:25:22182How to Rock It With RocketsfullHow to Rock It With Rocketsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips81. Join a Virtual Space MissionClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 16 Sep 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/81/join-a-virtual-space-mission54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:631bb2f97636d00343a6b2bfShow Summary:

In this episode, Natasha talks with a group of aerospace engineering students from Texas A&M University. They are part of the team behind an amazing K-12 STEM program called Space Teams, a six-day virtual space mission for students 12 - 18. A new Space Teams mission is coming up in October, and we thought it would be fun to bring some of the team to share more about this program and their own personal journeys in STEM.

Click here to apply for sponsorship!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

59. How to Motivate Students and Regulate Emotions in STEM

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Interview Questions to ask STEM Professionals

Inspirational STEM Classroom Posters

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

Space Teams:

- Official Site

- Video: Highlights: 2022 International SpaceCRAFT Exploration Challenge (YouTube)

Astronaut and Space Teams founder Gregory Chamitoff (Wikipedia)

STS (Space Transportation System) information

STS-124 (Wikipedia)

STS-124 Space Shuttle Launch

NASA Centers and Facilities

First Lego League

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/81/join-a-virtual-space-mission

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]]>Vivify STEMApply for a Team SponsorshipIn this episode, Natasha talks with a group of aerospace engineering students from Texas A&M University. They are part of the team behind an amazing K-12 STEM program called Space Teams, a six-day virtual space mission for students 12 - 18. A new Space Teams mission is coming up in October, and we thought it would be fun to bring some of the team to share more about this program and their own personal journeys in STEM. false00:23:48181Join a Virtual Space MissionfullJoin a Virtual Space Missioninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips80. How Does Your Education Compare?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 09 Sep 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/80/how-does-your-education-compare54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63178c1e8d18791eb8eea346Show Summary:

How do you feel about the education system where you live? In this episode, Natasha shares a project she completed comparing the education systems in different countries. Tune in to hear what is working and what isn’t in education around the world.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

73. Does STEM Track?

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Critical Issues of K-12 Engineering Education

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Intro to Science & Engineering: STEM Critical Thinking Challenges

Inspirational STEM Classroom Posters

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

National Geographic Kids - Country Profiles:

- Greece

- Poland

- United States

United States Standards:

- Common Core State Standards

- Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA)

- PISA 2018: Highlight indicators (use this to sort data by country)

What is Montessori Education?

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/80/how-does-your-education-compare

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]]>Vivify STEMHow do our students rank around the world?How do you feel about the education system where you live? In this episode, Natasha shares a project she completed comparing the education systems in different countries. Tune in to hear what is working and what isn’t in education around the world.false00:30:41180How Does Your Education Compare?fullHow Does Your Education Compare?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips79. The Impact of STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 02 Sep 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/79/the-impact-of-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:630e410f746af01c66d0a3b0Show Summary:

From launching Space Club to hosting STEM Family Nights, Natasha reflects on her last 8 years as STEM Director at a nonprofit in San Antonio, Texas. She discusses with Claire the transition from engineer to educator and the impact of STEM programs. Plus, Claire shares a super easy apple spice cobbler recipe!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

73. Does STEM Track?

67. Is STEM After School Effective?

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

52. How to Host a STEM Family Night

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

#FBF: Natasha’s New STEM Job! (2014)

I Didn’t Always Want to be an Engineer

How to Launch Model Rockets & Amaze Your Students! Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3

STEM Family Night:

- STEM Family Night Planning Guide

- 10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

- How to Host a Virtual STEM Family Event

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

Stop Motion Animation Activity - FREE in the STEM Space Explorer Library!

Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, STEM Activity Instructions, Posters

Microscope Mystery: Life Science Center - FREE in the STEM Space Explorer Library!

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Other STEM Resources

SEEC - Space Exploration Educators Conference

Meet the Vivify Team

Communities In Schools - San Antonio (CISSA)

Tick Tock And TikTok: Shorter Attention Spans And The Consumer Market (Forbes)

Claire’s new fave baby item - Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base - Car Seat to Stroller in Seconds

Pitsco Ed Collab: STEM Family Night Kit

Vivify STEM TikTok Videos:

Mars Colony Project

Rocket Launches with Middle Schoolers

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Blog: STEM Curriculum: Mission to Moon

Video: Space Club Mission to Moon Project Highlights

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Project Highlights

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/79/the-impact-of-stem

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom launching Space Club to hosting STEM Family Nights, Natasha reflects on her last 8 years as STEM Director at a nonprofit in San Antonio, Texas.From launching Space Club to hosting STEM Family Nights, Natasha reflects on her last 8 years as STEM Director at a nonprofit in San Antonio, Texas. She discusses with Claire the transition from engineer to educator and the impact of STEM programs. Plus, Claire shares a super easy apple spice cobbler recipe! false00:26:34179The Impact of STEMfullThe Impact of STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips78. Stage 3 STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 26 Aug 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/78/stage-3-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:63050bab2577e8180674d88aShow Summary:

Ready to elevate your STEM class with a Stage 3 STEM project? Here is the part 2 we promised in episode 75! Claire and Natasha dive into ideas for long-term research-based STEM projects for elementary and middle school. We discuss animal habits, a project for a custom-fit aquatic wheelchair, and tackling a local city challenge. We also share how any Stage 2 engineering design challenge can be translated into a more in-depth Stage 3 STEM project.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

75. Space Colony Competition

66. Eco-House Sustainable STEM with Kristina Ohl

33. My Students Built A Wheelchair

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project

Design a Prosthetic Leg STEM Activity...for Animals!

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Prosthetic Leg Engineering Design STEM Challenge

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity (Angles and Ratios)

STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guide) - FREE! - Elementary or Middle School

Stage 3 STEM: Design Projects

- Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project

- Mission to Mars Semester STEM Unit + Mars Colony Project!

- Animal Habitat & Biomes STEM Diorama Engineering Design Project

- Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Other STEM Resources

Space Colony Competition

Makey Makey

- Makey Makey Invention Kit - Amazon affiliate link

- Makey Makey STEM Activity - FREE in the The STEM Space Explorer Library! Learn the basics + Activity to build a game controller!

Scratch Jr.

SA Smart Challenge

NAE Grand Challenges for Engineering

Vivify Curriculum Map

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/78/stage-3-stem

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]]>Vivify STEMReady to elevate your STEM class with a Stage 3 STEM project?Ready to elevate your STEM class with a Stage 3 STEM project? Here is the part 2 we promised in episode 75! Claire and Natasha dive into ideas for long-term research-based STEM projects for elementary and middle school. We discuss animal habits, a project for a custom-fit aquatic wheelchair, and tackling a local city challenge. We also share how any Stage 2 engineering design challenge can be translated into a more in-depth Stage 3 STEM project. false00:22:19178Stage 3 STEMfullStage 3 STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips77. Back-to-School IcebreakersClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 19 Aug 2022 11:22:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/77/back-to-school-icebreakers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62fe755624f3e95bc3313356Show Summary:

Need some low-prep icebreakers for back to school? Claire shares her favorite Stage 1 STEM activities that build a foundation of teamwork, collaboration, and communication to set the stage for engineering design challenges. Plus, she describes how to add new constraints to some of our most popular STEM icebreakers to adapt for older students or to re-use with a class.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

54. HELP! My Students Are Struggling With TEAMWORK!

45. The Best STEM Challenge Ever

38. Back to School STEM

31. Reflections from a First Year STEM Teacher

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

The Best 3 Back to School STEM Icebreakers (Challenges/instructions for Space Docking, Tower, and Helium Stick)

50 Distance Learning Icebreakers & Games

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Stage 1: Icebreakers & Teambuilding

- Newspaper STEM Challenges: 3 Engineering Activities

- Tower STEM Challenges: 5 Icebreaker Activities

- Back to School STEM: 6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities

- Back to School (Stage 1 STEM) Bundle: 50+ Icebreaker Activities

Other STEM Resources

Vivify Curriculum Map

Stacking Chairs (Game) - Vivify Amazon Affiliate Link

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/77/back-to-school-icebreakers

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]]>Vivify STEMStage 1 STEM ideas for your classroomNeed some low-prep icebreakers for back to school? Claire shares her favorite Stage 1 STEM activities that build a foundation of teamwork, collaboration, and communication to set the stage for engineering design challenges. Plus, she describes how to add new constraints to some of our most popular STEM icebreakers to adapt for older students or to re-use with a class. false00:11:35177Back-to-School IcebreakersfullBack-to-School Icebreakersinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips76. Career Chat with an AstronautSTEM Career ChatsFri, 12 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/76/career-chat-with-an-astronaut54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62f2d62809f8ab06c1d03eaeShow Summary:

What's it like to live and work in outer space? In this special episode of The STEM Space, we share our most viewed Space Club Career Chat with former astronaut Bonnie Dunbar! She worked for NASA for 27 years, flew five times on the space shuttle logging over 50 days in space, and is now a professor of Aerospace Engineering. Dr. Dunbar shares her journey to becoming an astronaut and then answers questions submitted by elementary and middle school students! You can also watch the presentation on our YouTube channel.

Links from the Show:

All About Space Club

Video: Career Chat: Retired Astronaut Bonnie Dunbar (Texas A&M)

Bring Space Club to Your School! FREE TO ALL EDUCATORS!

Video: Space Club: Mission to Moon

Space Colony Competition

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas

53: Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. Olesen

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

70. Career Chat with a Satellite Program Manager

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (PreK-9th)

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Other STEM Resources

All About Bonnie J. Dunbar

NASA biography (PDF)

Texas A&M University profile

News Article: Space Suits Of The Future Will Fit Better And Do More

Vivify YouTube: STEM Career Chats

Book: Jules Verne “From the Earth to the Moon”

NASA - Historical References:

- Alan Shepard Becomes the First American in Space

- John Glenn, the First American to Orbit the Earth aboard Friendship 7

- President Kennedy Proposes Moon Landing Goal in Speech to Congress

- Historical Origins of ISS

- Skylab - America’s First Space Station

- Artemis Program

- How To Be An Astronaut

- Astronauts Homepage

Smithsonian Article: Rita Rapp Fed America’s Space Travelers

YouTube: Stunning aurora as seen from the Space Station | European Space Agency

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/76/career-chat-with-an-astronaut

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]]>Vivify STEMWhat's it like to live and work in outer space?What's it like to live and work in outer space? In this special episode of The STEM Space, we share our most viewed Space Club Career Chat with former astronaut Bonnie Dunbar! She worked for NASA for 27 years, flew five times on the space shuttle logging over 50 days in space, and is now a professor of Aerospace Engineering. Dr. Dunbar shares her journey to becoming an astronaut and then answers questions submitted by elementary and middle school students! You can also watch the presentation on our YouTube channel. false00:29:05176Career Chat with an AstronautfullCareer Chat with an Astronautinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)STEM Career Chats75. Space Colony CompetitionClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 05 Aug 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/75/space-colony-competition54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62ea901ed5acd5761e589ad6Show Summary:

Can you survive a mission to space? We invite your elementary and middle school students to submit their designs for a colony on the Moon or Mars that can keep a crew alive and happy! With a blend of research, engineering, architecture, math, and science - this is an epic Stage 3 STEM challenge that only requires recycled materials to bring it to life! Claire and Natasha discuss the launch of the virtual Space Colony Competition plus how Claire’s planning is going for her STEM classes in grades K through 8!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

65. How to Plan Your Year in STEM

37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

31. Reflections from a First Year STEM Teacher

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?

Go on a Mission to Mars! An inside look into Space Club’s Mission to Mars

Sub Plans for a STEM Classroom

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Scope and Sequence - FREE!:

- Elementary (K-5)

- Middle School (6-8)

STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity

Space STEM Starter Challenges MEGA Bundle:

- Elementary (K-5)

- Middle School (6-8)

Plants In Space STEM Challenge:

- Elementary (K-5)

- Middle School (5-9)

Other STEM Resources

Space Colony Competition by Cosmic Leap Foundation

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Vivify STEM Resource Recommendations

NASA: Growing Plants in Space

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/75/space-colony-competition

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]]>Vivify STEMCan you survive a mission to space?Can you survive a mission to space? We invite your elementary and middle school students to submit their designs for a colony on the Moon or Mars that can keep a crew alive and happy! With a blend of research, engineering, architecture, math, and science - this is an epic Stage 3 STEM challenge that only requires recycled materials to bring it to life! Claire and Natasha discuss the launch of the virtual Space Colony Competition plus how Claire’s planning is going for her STEM classes in grades K through 8!false00:16:23175Space Colony CompetitionfullSpace Colony Competitioninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips74. Rate My STEM LessonClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 29 Jul 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/74/rate-my-stem-lesson54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62e15fed677e37341137e2bcShow Summary:

What is the focus in your STEM classroom? Do you love teambuilding activities? Or perhaps you spend most of the year on engineering design. In this episode, we discuss a quiz to rate your STEM lessons or program, plus some exciting projects we are working on including Alphabet STEM for kindergarten and an epic Space Colony Competition!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

73. Does STEM Track?

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

69. Can My Baby Do STEM?

59. How to Motivate Students and Regulate Emotions in STEM

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?

Design a Mars Colony: STEM Project (Distance Learning)

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Alphabet STEM Challenges Bundle - Kindergarten STEM Unit

Upstairs Downstairs Brain Paper Circuit SEL STEM Activity

Design a Mars Colony STEM/STEAM Project Bundle!

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Other STEM Resources

Vivify Team

STEM Checklist - FREE in the STEM Space Library!

Space Colony Competition by Cosmic Leap Foundation

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/74/rate-my-stem-lesson

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]]>Vivify STEMWhat is the focus in your STEM classroom?What is the focus in your STEM classroom? Do you love teambuilding activities? Or perhaps you spend most of the year on engineering design. In this episode, we discuss a quiz to rate your STEM lessons or program, plus some exciting projects we are working on including Alphabet STEM for kindergarten and an epic Space Colony Competition!false00:14:56174Rate My STEM LessonfullRate My STEM Lessoninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips73. Does STEM Track?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 22 Jul 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/73/does-stem-track54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62d06888ec66e715837b174aShow Summary:

Is STEM really accessible for all students? What is the purpose of tracking students in school? Claire and Natasha discuss inequalities in our school system and how putting students in a track may limit their educational potential. We also share our own experiences in struggling with math, but due to parental support and resources, we were able to persevere and become engineers. But what about students who don't have the same support system. Should they have less of an education? We get pretty passionate about this topic!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

71. How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge

67. Is STEM After School Effective?

58. Are You Training Up Innovators?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Careers: -

- Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (PreK-9th)

- STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

- Digital STEM Choice Boards

- STEM Career Classroom Posters

Project-Based Learning (PBL):

- Animal Habitat & Biomes STEM Diorama Engineering Design Project (K-5th)

- Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project (Environmental Science 5E PBL) (4th-8th)

Other STEM Resources

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD): The Case for Untracking by Anne Wheelock

Texas House Bill 5: Foundation High School Program

Savage Inequalities book

Project-Based Learning: What is PBL? - PBLWorks.org

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/73/does-stem-track

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]]>Vivify STEMIs STEM really accessible for all students?Is STEM really accessible for all students? What is the purpose of tracking students in school? Claire and Natasha discuss inequalities in our school system and how putting students in a track may limit their educational potential. We also share our own experiences in struggling with math, but due to parental support and resources, we were able to persevere and become engineers. But what about students who don't have the same support system. Should they have less of an education? We get pretty passionate about this topic! false00:23:37173Does STEM Track?fullDoes STEM Track?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips72. Astrophysics and Weightlifting with Dr. Roman GomezClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 15 Jul 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/72/astrophysics-and-weightlifting-with-dr-roman-gomez54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62cdad78301b927085c43d9aShow Summary:

Natasha chats with Dr. Roman Gomez, a lead research scientist in the Space Science and Engineering division of Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. Roman shares his story of growing up in San Antonio, joining the Army, and then eventually getting his Ph.D. in astrophysics. Using questions submitted by Space Club elementary and middle school students, we discuss his journey in STEM, how he learned from his mistakes and his passion for all this space and science.

Links from the Show:

All About Space Club

Video: Career Chats: Dr. Roman Gomez (Research Scientist)

Bring Space Club to Your School! - FREE for educators!

Blog: STEM Curriculum: Mission to Moon

Video: Space Club Mission to Moon Project Highlights Video

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas

53: Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. Olesen

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

70. Career Chat with a Satellite Program Manager

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Careers:

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (PreK-9th)

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Boards: STEM Careers, Space Mission, Virtual Field Trip, Branches of Science, and ISS Labs in Space

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Growth Mindset Back to School Rocket About Me Activity

Mission to Moon STEM Curriculum Unit (Space Exploration):

Elementary (K-5)

Middle School (6-8)

Other STEM Resources

Vivify YouTube: STEM Career Chats

Dr. Roman Gomez Speaks at 2019 Fall STEM Lecture Series

What is Olympic Weightlifting? via Wikipedia

U.S. Census Bureau Releases New Educational Attainment Data (2020)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/72/astrophysics-and-weightlifting-with-dr-roman-gomez

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]]>Vivify STEMAre scientists just a stereotype?Natasha chats with Dr. Roman Gomez, a lead research scientist in the Space Science and Engineering division of Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. Roman shares his story of growing up in San Antonio, joining the Army, and then eventually getting his Ph.D. in astrophysics. Using questions submitted by Space Club elementary and middle school students, we discuss his journey in STEM, how he learned from his mistakes and his passion for all this space and science. false00:24:05172Astrophysics and Weightlifting with Dr. Roman GomezfullAstrophysics and Weightlifting with Dr. Roman Gomezinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips71. How to Create a Relevant STEM ChallengeClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsTue, 05 Jul 2022 16:45:40 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/71/how-to-create-a-relevant-stem-challenge54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62c46ab4d5c53c47a35d6375Show Summary:

With no internet access and limited supplies, how can you inspire and engage kids with STEM? We often think of robots and circuit boards as an integral part of STEM education, but hands-on learning doesn't need fancy tools. In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss ideas for offering STEM in rural communities (with special guest, baby Fenya). We also provide a framework for developing relevant STEM challenges that are based on students' lived experiences.

Links from the Show:

Agastya International Foundation

Website

Video: Redefining Education

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

60. Why Should You Have More Than One Solution?

58. Are You Training Up Innovators?

47. What Maps Have To Do With Creativity

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Mission to the Moon: Virtual STEM Program

STEM Activities for Distance Learning

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Design a School Garden STEM Project

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

How to Create a Relevant STEM Challenge (Flow Chart) - FREE in the STEM Space

Design a School Garden: STEM Project Guide

Mission to Mars: Middle School STEM Curriculum Unit (Space Exploration)

STEM Activity Hoop Glider Challenge (Variable Testing)

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge

Lower Grades (K-3)

Upper Grades (4-10)

Other STEM Resources

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

Young Reader’s Edition (paperback)

William Kamkwamba: How I harnessed the wind | TED Talk

William Kamkwamba: How I built a windmill | TED Talk

Space Club Outdoor Habitat Video

Dee Howard International Education Foundation

Bernoulli's Principle

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/71/how-to-create-a-relevant-stem-challenge

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]]>Vivify STEMWith no internet access and limited supplies, how can you inspire and engage kids with STEM?With no internet access and limited supplies, how can you inspire and engage kids with STEM? We often think of robots and circuit boards as an integral part of STEM education, but hands-on learning doesn't need fancy tools. In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss ideas for offering STEM in rural communities (with special guest, baby Fenya). We also provide a framework for developing relevant STEM challenges that are based on students' lived experiences.false00:19:53171How to Create a Relevant STEM ChallengefullHow to Create a Relevant STEM Challengeinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips70. Career Chat with a Satellite Program ManagerClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Jul 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/70/career-chat-with-a-satellite-program-manager54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62bb2d4eca88cd56a263ef9cShow Summary:

Do you have a student obsessed with a subject? You know, the one who asks you all the questions you don’t know the answers to? In this episode, Natasha interviewed York Space Systems Program Manager Christine Dubbert (who was that student) for the 2022 spring semester Space Club Career Chat finale. Tune in as we talk about her pathway to STEM, what it's like to be a woman in engineering, and her previous competitive Scottish Highland dancing hobby!

Links from the Show:

All About Space Club

Video: Career Chat: Christine Dubbert (York Space Systems)

Bring Space Club to Your School! - Now FREE for all educators!

Blog: Mission to Mars Curriculum

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Student Highlights Videos

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas

53: Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. Olesen

62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!

64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities

I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Careers:

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (PreK-9th)

STEM Careers BINGO Game! (Middle & High School)

Digital STEM Choice Board: STEM Careers!

STEM Career Classroom Posters

Mission to Mars: Middle School STEM Curriculum Unit (Space Exploration)

Other STEM Resources

Vivify YouTube: STEM Career Chats

York Space Systems

Space Development Agency

Spot The Station | NASA

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/70/career-chat-with-a-satellite-program-manager

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]]>Vivify STEMFrom competitive Scottish Highland dancing and working at NASA, to being a program manager for York Space Systems and pursuing a MBA, Natasha interviews Christine Dubbert.Do you have a student obsessed with a subject? You know, the one who asks you all the questions you don’t know the answers to? In this episode, Natasha interviewed York Space Systems Program Manager Christine Dubbert (who was that student) for the 2022 spring semester Space Club Career Chat finale. Tune in as we talk about her pathway to STEM, what it's like to be a woman in engineering, and her previous competitive Scottish Highland dancing hobby!false00:27:43170Career Chat with a Satellite Program ManagerfullCareer Chat with a Satellite Program Managerinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips69. Can My Baby Do STEM?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 24 Jun 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/69/can-my-baby-do-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:629921582bf9f14db6325ae1Show Summary:

How young is too young for STEM? My kids' daycare claims to teach STEM with activities geared to students as young as 2 years old! But how does a 2-year-old even do STEM? I am pretty skeptical so I asked Claire, who teaches STEM for Pre-K all the way to 8th grade, to get her perspective. Tune in as we discuss STEM for little kids, learning goals, and what is even possible.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

63. What is the Point of a Field Trip?

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

24. Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

21. Teaching Fads: Should You Teach STEM?

8. STEM vs. STEAM+

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

5 Tips to Planning the Best STEM Field Trip!

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

The Importance of Failure

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

STEM Careers:

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (PreK-9th)

Elementary STEM Careers BINGO Game (K-6th)

Icebreaker Teamwork STEM Activities

Building Bricks STEM Biomes and Habitats Engineering Design Challenge

STEM Task Cards: Building Icebreakers

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge (Forces & Motion)

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School! - Now FREE for all educators!

Blog: Mission to Mars Curriculum

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Student Highlights Videos

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

Other STEM Resources

Vivify YouTube: STEM Career Chats

Vivify Instagram:

Make a paper fish swim with surface tension!

Let’s make a lung with Madelyn!

Pig Lung Demo

Creative Answers Demo (Claire asked all of her classes a question and shared their answers!)

SmartLab Toys Squishy Human Body

Geo Board – Learning Resources Manipulatives

Tangrams - Wooden Pattern Blocks

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/69/can-my-baby-do-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

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]]>Vivify STEMHow young is too young for STEM?How young is too young for STEM? My kids' daycare claims to teach STEM with activities geared to students as young as 2 years old! But how does a 2-year-old even do STEM? I am pretty skeptical so I asked Claire, who teaches STEM for Pre-K all the way to 8th grade, to get her perspective. Tune in as we discuss STEM for little kids, learning goals, and what is even possible. false00:29:29169Can My Baby Do STEM?fullCan My Baby Do STEM?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips68. Game Based Learning with André ThomasClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 17 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/68/game-based-learning-with-andre-thomas54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:629641ab6929c17b41d1e4e6Show Summary:

Have you used game-based learning in your classroom? Can gaming actually improve learning outcomes? In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with renowned game-based learning expert and Texas A&M University professor André Thomas. His career started in the movie industry creating graphics for movies like Men in Black, then moved into the world of graphics for games like Madden NFL, and he now uses those experiences to develop immersive games to teach educational content like calculus. We discuss his background, how to engage students in the gaming industry, and ways for teachers to leverage game-based learning in their classrooms.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

17. We All Need a Lesson in Failure

18. What You Should Know About Failure

36. Are You A Visualizer?

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

The Importance of Failure

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Growth Mindset Back to School Rocket About Me Activity

Binary Code Reference Sheet and Activity ideas - FREE in the STEM Space Explorer Library!

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Other STEM Resources

TED Talk: The Effective Use of Game-Based Learning in Education

André Thomas: 5 Ways to Break into the Video Game Industry

Game Based Learning - YouTube

BMW 5 Series Ink

BBC News: “Gaming worth more than video and music combined”

A&M-developed calculus video game helps students pass, pursue STEM careers

Variant: Limits Educational Trailer (YouTube)

Variant: Limits (game)

Triseum

Introduction to Game-Based Learning (Texas A&M Online Course)

André’s Favorite Low-Tech/No Tech Games:

How to Play Mexican Train (Domino Game) - WikiHow YouTube

Pandemic Board Game

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/68/game-based-learning-with-andre-thomas

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with renowned game-based learning expert and Texas A&M University professor André Thomas.Have you used game-based learning in your classroom? Can gaming actually improve learning outcomes? In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with renowned game-based learning expert and Texas A&M University professor André Thomas. His career started in the movie industry creating graphics for movies like Men in Black, then moved into the world of graphics for games like Madden NFL, and he now uses those experiences to develop immersive games to teach educational content like calculus. We discuss his background, how to engage students in the gaming industry, and ways for teachers to leverage game-based learning in their classrooms.false00:33:05168Game Based Learning with André ThomasfullGame Based Learning with André Thomasinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips67. Is STEM After School Effective?Teaching TipsClassroom ResourcesFri, 10 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/67/is-stem-after-school-effective54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:628bc5e293636b5809e9e485Show Summary:

Are you interested in learning about the latest research in STEM education? In this episode, Natasha, a doctoral student at Texas A&M University, shares her recent research on the impact of attendance in an afterschool STEM program (Space Club) on student attitudes towards STEM. Tune in to hear the latest trends in STEM education and the behind-the-scenes of conducting quantitative education research.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

2. STEM Careers in your Classroom

4. Why You Should Teach Space

23. Mission to the Moon: Virtual STEM Program

37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM

57. How to Organize a STEM Summer Camp

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM

7 Activities Featuring Women in STEM History

How to Start an After School STEM Club

Vivify STEM Lessons & Products

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity

Digital STEM Choice Board Bundle

STEM Careers BINGO (Printed & Digital Versions)

STEM Career Classroom Posters

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School! - Now FREE for all educators!

Blog: Mission to Mars Curriculum

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Student Highlights Videos

Other STEM Resources

Study from Science.org - “Highway signs showing traffic deaths don’t reduce crashes”

Girls Who Code

A Leak in the STEM Pipeline: Taking Algebra Early

PEAR’s STEM Tools: Common Instrument Suite & Dimensions of Success

This Camp Is Also an In-Depth Study of Why Girls Quit STEM

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, 2021 (PDF)

Osborne, J. (2003). Attitudes towards science: A review of the literature and its implications. International Journal of Science Education, 25(9), 1049 – 1079.

Shapiro, M., Grossman, D., Carter, S., Martin, K., Deyton, P., & Hammer, D. (2015). Middle school girls and the “leaky pipeline” to leadership. Middle School Journal, 46(5), 3–13.

Afterschool Alliance. (2021). STEM learning in afterschool on the rise, but barriers and inequities exist. (PDF)

Young, J. R., Ortiz, N., & Young, J. L. (2017). STEMulating Interest: A meta-analysis of the effects of out-of-school time on student STEM interest. International Journal of Education in Mathematics, Science and Technology, 5(1), 62–74.

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/2022/67/is-stem-after-school-effective

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]]>Vivify STEMAre you interested in learning about the latest research in STEM Education?Are you interested in learning about the latest research in STEM education? In this episode, Natasha, a doctoral student at Texas A&M University, shares her recent research on the impact of attendance in an afterschool STEM program (Space Club) on student attitudes towards STEM. Tune in to hear the latest trends in STEM education and the behind-the-scenes of conducting quantitative education research. false00:28:0416767. Is STEM After School Effective?full67. Is STEM After School Effective?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips, Classroom Resources66. Eco-House Sustainable STEM with Kristina OhlTeaching TipsVivify STEM LessonClassroom ResourcesFri, 03 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/66/eco-house-stem-planning-game-with-kristina-ohl54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:628bc53fa0cb90580b01c89bShow Summary:

Natasha chats with Kristina Ohl, a 6th-grade science teacher who decided to “re-create” one of her favorite activities, Vivify’s Mission to Mars Planning Game. She brought the real-world project back to Earth by having students plan and design an energy-efficient and eco-friendly house! She discusses her experience developing the lesson including consulting a sustainable building engineer and testing with elementary and middle school students. We also chat about effective teaching practices and how we cannot simply pour our knowledge into children’s brains - try as we might!

Links from the Show:

Previous Podcasts

24. Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

29. Why Do We Teach Engineering in Schools?

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

Related Blog Posts

Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project

Design a Mars Colony: STEM Project (Distance Learning)

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Critical Issues of K-12 Engineering Education

STEM Lessons

Design a Sustainable Eco-House STEM Project (Environmental Science 5E PBL)

Mission to Mars: Middle School STEM Curriculum Unit

Mission to Moon Middle School STEM Curriculum Unit

Other Links

EXPLO

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/66/eco-house-stem-planning-game-with-kristina-ohl

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]]>Vivify STEMNatasha chats with Kristina Ohl, a 6th-grade science teacher who decided to "re-create" one of her favorite Vivify activities. Natasha chats with Kristina Ohl, a 6th-grade science teacher who decided to “re-create” one of her favorite activities, Vivify’s Mission to Mars Planning Game. She brought the real-world project back to Earth by having students plan and design an energy-efficient and eco-friendly house! She discusses her experience developing the lesson including consulting a sustainable building engineer and testing with elementary and middle school students. We also chat about effective teaching practices and how we cannot simply pour our knowledge into children’s brains - try as we might! false00:24:00166Eco-House STEM Planning Game with Kristina OhlfullEco-House STEM Planning Game with Kristina Ohlinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips, Vivify STEM Lesson, Classroom Resources65. How to Plan Your Year in STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 27 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/65/how-to-plan-out-your-year-in-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:62828c3212a17a45fb14cba3Show Summary:

Tune in as Claire and Natasha tackle another question from our listeners: “I am new to STEM…how do you keep it all together? All the resources, organizing for all grade levels…I’d love to be a fly on the wall in Texas!” As the school year wraps up, Claire reflects on a crazy busy year and how she stays organized when teaching different STEM topics for her PreK all the way to 8th-grade students!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

33. My Students Built A Wheelchair

Launching A High Altitude Balloon:-

- 27. Launching A High Altitude Balloon

- 30. Launching A High Altitude Balloon Part 2

26. Making Time for STEM (ft. Kerry Tracy)

Vivify STEM Lessons

Editable Engineering Design Challenge Teacher Slides - FREE in our STEM Space Explorer Library

Alphabet STEM Challenges Bundle - Kindergarten STEM Unit

Animal Habitat & Biomes STEM Diorama Engineering Design Project

STEM Explorers: Elementary STEM Curriculum Around the World

Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

Editable Budget Sheet for Engineering Design Challenges - FREE in our STEM Space Explorer Library

Stop Motion Animation Activity - FREE in our STEM Space Explorer Library

Building Bricks STEM Biomes and Habitats Engineering Design Challenge (LEGO®)

Genetics STEM Unit: Monster Engineering Challenge (5E Science Lesson)

STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

Top 35 Amazing STEM Books for Kids

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge

Engineering and the 5E Science Model

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Blog: Mission to Mars Curriculum

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Student Highlights Videos

Podcast: 37. The Learning Potential of Space Club

Other STEM Resources

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Email us your questions at info@vivifystem.com

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]]>Vivify STEMHow should you organize your lessons, classes, and projectsTune in as Claire and Natasha tackle another question from our listeners: “I am new to STEM…how do you keep it all together? All the resources, organizing for all grade levels…I’d love to be a fly on the wall in Texas!” As the school year wraps up, Claire reflects on a crazy busy year and how she stays organized when teaching different STEM topics for her PreK all the way to 8th-grade students! false00:22:06165How to Plan Your Year in STEMfullHow to Plan Your Year in STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips64. Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controller!Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 20 May 2022 19:31:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/64/inspire-kids-with-space-chat-with-nasa-ground-controller54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:627abd97662cb60abac6a2efShow Summary:

What is it like to work at NASA? What happens at mission control? In this episode, Natasha chats with Patrick Ream, a ground controller trainee at NASA's Johnson Space Center! We talk all about his work at NASA, what inspired him to become an aerospace engineer, and his advice for motivating struggling students.

Links from the Show:

Watch this Career Chat and more on Vivify’s YouTube!

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School!

Blog: Mission to Mars Curriculum

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Student Highlights Videos

Vivify’s Space STEM Lessons

Explore the Universe Scavenger Hunt (FREE in our Resource Library)

Astronaut Wearable Device Engineering Activity (Space & STEM)

All Space Exploration Lessons

Teambuilding and Communication Lessons

NASA Connections

Definitions:

ADCO - Attitude Determination and Control Officer

SPARTAN - Station, Power, ARticulation, Thermal, and ANalysis

Artemis Program

Orion Overview

Lunar Gateway Overview

NASA Johnson Space Center

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)

Video: Mission Control at NASA Johnson Space Center: History and Restoration

Moon’s South Pole in NASA’s Landing Sites

Careers at NASA: Explore the Extraordinary, Every Day

Live Space Station Tracking Map

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/64/inspire-kids-with-space-chat-with-nasa-ground-controller

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]]>Vivify STEMHow to motivate students to pursue STEMWhat is it like to work at NASA? What happens at mission control? In this episode, Natasha chats with Patrick Ream, a ground controller trainee at NASA's Johnson Space Center! We talk all about his work at NASA, what inspired him to become an aerospace engineer, and his advice for motivating struggling students.false00:35:12164Inspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground ControllerfullInspire Kids with Space: Chat with NASA Ground Controllerinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips63. What is the Point of a Field Trip?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 13 May 2022 18:59:25 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/63/what-is-the-point-of-a-field-trip54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:626c17e9c03a917369a883bdShow Summary:

What is the point of a field trip? In this episode, Natasha brings Claire on another adventure with a group of undergraduate engineering students who plan to become STEM teachers. Learn how educators can thoughtfully plan a field trip experience to maximize learning and when may be the optimal time for these types of experiences within a unit of study.

Links from the Show:

About Lillian Gilbreth

Texas A&M’s Environmental & Emissions Research Facility

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

55: How to Teach STEM During Women's History Month

48. What Is In Our Air?

Vivify STEM Resources

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning

Video of Pig Lungs in Action

Roller Coaster STEM Activity (Printed and Digital Journals)

STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity (Printed & Digital)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/63/what-is-the-point-of-a-field-trip

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

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]]>Vivify STEMAre you intentional about making field trips enhance your lessons?What is the point of a field trip? In this episode, Natasha brings Claire on another adventure with a group of undergraduate engineering students who plan to become STEM teachers. Learn how educators can thoughtfully plan a field trip experience to maximize learning and when may be the optimal time for these types of experiences within a unit of study. false00:35:38163What is the Point of a Field Trip?fullWhat is the Point of a Field Trip?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips62. Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 07 May 2022 01:52:16 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/62/life-on-another-planet-career-chat-with-an-astrobiologist54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6261e1ad28c33f6384ea304aShow Summary:

Does life exist on another planet? Listen to a fascinating STEM career chat with Dr. Charity Lander-Phillips, an astrobiologist at Southwest Research Institute. We discuss how her love for volcanoes as a kid led to her current work searching for life on another planet. Tune in for this exciting episode, taken from a recent Space Club Career Chat. All questions were submitted by elementary and middle school students who wanted to know more about her exciting STEM career, how she got here, and what sort of challenges she faces!

Links from the Show:

Watch this Career Chat and more on Vivify’s YouTube!

All About Space Club

Bring Space Club to Your School

Blog: Mission to Mars Curriculum

Video: Space Club Mission to Mars Student Highlights Videos

STEM Lessons

Astronaut Wearable Device Engineering Activity (Space & STEM)

Real-World Connections

NASA Mars 2020 Mission (Perseverance Rover)

NASA Dragonfly Mission

Dr. Charity Phillips-Lander’s Research

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/62/life-on-another-planet-career-chat-with-an-astrobiologist

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

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]]>Vivify STEMThe search for life elsewhereDoes life exist on another planet? Listen to a fascinating STEM career chat with Dr. Charity Lander-Phillips, an astrobiologist at Southwest Research Institute. We discuss how her love for volcanoes as a kid led to her current work searching for life on another planet. Tune in for this exciting episode, taken from a recent Space Club Career Chat. All questions were submitted by elementary and middle school students who wanted to know more about her exciting STEM career, how she got here, and what sort of challenges she faces!false00:30:13162Life on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!fullLife on Another Planet? Career Chat with an Astrobiologist!info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips61. Crazy Chemistry and Your Questions AnsweredClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 29 Apr 2022 11:33:59 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/61/crazy-chemistry-and-your-questions-answered54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6259eb0755c82f278b3f5fc2Show Summary:

What are your must-haves for a STEM lab? What is a quick STEM challenge for a school showcase? How can I turn a theatrical puppet into an engineering design challenge? In this episode, Natasha and Claire answer your questions submitted in The STEM Space Facebook group! Plus, we share a wild story of a school being evacuated due to a science experiment gone awry.

Links from the Show:

Planet Distance Activity (FREE in STEM Space Explorer Library)

Fun with Peeps

- Peeps in a Microwave: A Peep Jousting Experiment

- Fun With Physics: Finding The Speed Of Light With Peeps

- The Peeps Experiments: A Seasonal Celebration of Science (from Emory University)

The STEM Space Facebook Group

Pitsco Straw Rockets – Getting Started Package

Pitsco Water Bottle Rockets

How to Host a STEM Family Night

- 10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities <Vivify blog>

- How to Host a Virtual STEM Family Event <Vivify blog>

- 52. How to Host a STEM Family Night <previous podcast episode>

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

Claire’s Classroom Must-Haves

- Canary cardboard cutters

- Snap Circuits

- Domino Racing Building Blocks Set (Rube Goldberg)

- ZOOB Builderz (Vivify Amazon Affiliate link)

- NASA Spacecraft AR app

- Nasa Live Stream - Earth From Space: Live Views from the ISS YouTube

- ISS Above

Must Haves for a STEM Lab <Vivify Blog>

Related Podcast Episodes

5. STEM Tools for your Classroom

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

60. Why Should You Have More Than One Solution?

Vivify STEM Lessons

- STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity (Angles and Ratios)

- STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity (Printed & Digital)

- Hologram Structure STEM Challenge: Design the future!

How to Launch Model Rockets & Amaze Your Students! <Vivify blog>

Bring Space Club to Your School!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifysem.om/thestemspace/2022/61/crazy-chemistry-and-your-questions-answered

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMWhat are your must-haves for a STEM lab?What are your must-haves for a STEM lab? What is a quick STEM challenge for a school showcase? How can I turn a theatrical puppet into an engineering design challenge? In this episode, Natasha and Claire answer your questions submitted in The STEM Space Facebook group! Plus, we share a wild story of a school being evacuated due to a science experiment gone awry. false00:31:43161Crazy Chemistry and Your Questions AnsweredfullCrazy Chemistry and Your Questions Answeredinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips60. Why Should You Have More Than One Solution?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 22 Apr 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/60/why-should-you-have-more-than-one-solution54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6250716ca66eec05a63e1936Show Summary:

“Nothing is more dangerous than an idea when it is the only one we have.”
- Émile-Auguste Chartier, French philosopher

After many class discussions of failure, social-emotional learning (SEL), and upstairs/downstairs brain, one of Claire’s 6th grade students asked, “Why do you think that [failure is] required? If you’re successful the first time, why isn’t that a victory? Why is failure necessary? Why do you HAVE to fail?” Taking this personally as an engineer, Claire mulled this over and found the quote above as she began examining how to better explain this to her students. Tune in as Natasha details her most recent NSTA Conference venture (and how teachers fared compared to the engineering class in a prior episode) and Claire tells the truth about why you need more than one idea.

Links from the Show:

NSTA Conference

NSTA Conferences

Natasha 2022 NSTA photos <from the Vivify Instagram>

SEEC

SEEC (Space Exploration Educators Conference)

Natasha & Claire at SEEC 2022 <from the Vivify Instagram>

Claire’s Giant Moon Map

Bring Space Club to Your School! (It’s FREE!)

Learn more about Space Club here!

Space Club Pitsco Kits: Mission to Moon or Mission to Mars

STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity (Printed & Digital)

Vivify STEM Resources

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

12 Ways to Boost Social-Emotional Learning with STEM

Upstairs Downstairs Brain Paper Circuit SEL STEM Activity

Space STEM Resources

Video “7 Minutes of Terror”

What Space Jellyfish Tell Us About Interplanetary Travel

OSD AT&L Defense Acquisition Process Chart

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/60/why-should-you-have-more-than-one-solution

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMThe truth about failure and how to do EDCs“Nothing is more dangerous than an idea when it is the only one we have.” - Émile-Auguste Chartier, French philosopher After many class discussions of failure, social-emotional learning (SEL), and upstairs/downstairs brain, one of Claire’s 6th grade students asked, “Why do you think that [failure is] required? If you’re successful the first time, why isn’t that a victory? Why is failure necessary? Why do you HAVE to fail?” Taking this personally as an engineer, Claire mulled this over and found the quote above as she began examining how to better explain this to her students. Tune in as Natasha details her most recent NSTA Conference venture (and how teachers fared compared to the engineering class in a prior episode) and Claire tells the truth about why you need more than one idea. false00:24:05160Why Should You Have More Than One Solution?fullWhy Should You Have More Than One Solution?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips59. How to Motivate Students and Regulate Emotions in STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 15 Apr 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/59/how-to-motivate-students-and-regulate-emotions-in-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6241f4faa375f12a2c293b66Show Summary:

Rewards work well if you have a skill or a task that is mechanical, but what about in STEM? How do you get your students to be more intrinsically motivated versus wanting those extrinsic rewards? Tune in as Claire recaps her Invention Convention with Natasha and all of the ways she was surprised by her students. Learn how you can incorporate motivational tools and emotion regulation methods into your STEM class.

Links from the Show:

Episode 13. How to Effectively Teach Skills to Students

Episode 19: How To Motivate Your Students

Daniel Pink - Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

Google’s 80/20 Rule

Dr. Georgia Lagoudas is a Senior Advisor at the Office of Science and Technology Policy

46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas

Recording of White House Virtual Event – “Let’s Clear the Air on COVID: An OSTP Discussion on Clean Indoor Air”

EPA’s Clean Air in Buildings Challenge

Jigsaw Method of Teaching

33. My Students Built A Wheelchair

Upstairs/Downstairs Brain

56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?

Upstairs Downstairs Brain Paper Circuit SEL STEM Activity <from the Vivify store>

Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnne Deak

Why Do We Lose Control of Our Emotions?

Upstairs Brain Downstairs Brain - SEL Sketches

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward <from the Vivify blog>

12 Ways to Boost Social-Emotional Learning with STEM <from the Vivify blog>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/59/how-to-motivate-students-and-regulate-emotions-in-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMUpstairs Downstairs Brain and Intrinsic MotivationRewards work well if you have a skill or a task that is mechanical, but what about in STEM? How do you get your students to be more intrinsically motivated versus wanting those extrinsic rewards? Tune in as Claire recaps her Invention Convention with Natasha and all of the ways she was surprised by her students. Learn how you can incorporate motivational tools and emotion regulation methods into your STEM class. false00:30:20159How to Motivate Students and Regulate Emotions in STEMfullHow to Motivate Students and Regulate Emotions in STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips58. Are You Training Up Innovators?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 01 Apr 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/58/are-you-training-up-innovators54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6238c665a584f06a2a4c3d5eShow Summary:

You can come up with anything you want. There are no constraints. It sounds like the perfect formula… for disaster. It’s been proven time and time again that we, and especially our students, need constraints. But how do you give them constraints without stifling their creativity? Enter Invention Convention! Tune in as Natasha questions Claire on her school’s very first Invention Convention and other important facets of this amazing corner of STEM (like wondering if we need/will get a Starbucks on the moon?), the difference between invention and innovation, and how you can use these concepts to inspire your students.

Links from the Show:

Henry Ford Invention Convention Worldwide

Previous Podcast Episodes Mentioned:

33. My Students Built A Wheelchair

49. Big Things Happening in 2022!

51. How Do You Get Every Student to Speak?

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward <from the Vivify blog>

Creativity Tools <from the Vivify store>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/58/are-you-training-up-innovators

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMHow to help your students think creativelyYou can come up with anything you want. There are no constraints. It sounds like the perfect formula… for disaster. It’s been proven time and time again that we, and especially our students, need constraints. But how do you give them constraints without stifling their creativity? Enter Invention Convention! Tune in as Natasha questions Claire on her school’s very first Invention Convention and other important facets of this amazing corner of STEM (like wondering if we need/will get a Starbucks on the moon?), the difference between invention and innovation, and how you can use these concepts to inspire your students.false00:27:33158Are You Training Up Innovators?fullAre You Training Up Innovators?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips57. How to Organize a STEM Summer CampClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 25 Mar 2022 05:48:49 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/57/how-to-organize-a-stem-summer-camp54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6238c55f9e82f36ca8a5e05bShow Summary:

Are you in search of inspiration for a STEM summer camp? How do you keep your kids learning while having fun? Whether you’re exploring history and learning about other countries, building solar ovens, or even welcoming new people to Mars with a solar tower, tune in as Claire and Natasha discuss all things STEM to inspire your summer camp!

Links from the Show:

Gravity comparison video

What are the Ethical Concerns of Genome Editing? (from the National Human Genome Research Institute)

STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary <from the Vivify blog>

Vivify Products mentioned in this Episode (all from the Vivify TpT store):

STEM Starter Engineering Challenges (includes egg drop and boat challenges, plus more!)

Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity

Launchpad Mission to Mars: Middle School STEM Curriculum

Moon Tower Solar Panel STEM Engineering Challenge

Solar Oven STEM Challenge

STEM Explorers: STEM Curriculum Bundle

Sailboat Challenge Math & Engineering Activity

Oil Spill Challenge

Chile Solar Car STEM Challenge

** Solar Oven STEM Challenge and Chile Solar Car STEM Challenge are also included in the Summer & Solar Energy STEM Activity Bundle**

Find Student Sparks <from the Vivify blog>

Bring Space Club to Your School!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/57/how-to-organize-a-stem-summer-camp

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMResources, ideas, and inspiration for STEM this summer!Are you in search of inspiration for a STEM summer camp? How do you keep your kids learning while having fun? Whether you’re exploring history and learning about other countries, building solar ovens, or even welcoming new people to Mars with a solar tower, tune in as Claire and Natasha discuss all things STEM to inspire your summer camp!false00:18:00157How to Organize a STEM Summer CampfullHow to Organize a STEM Summer Campinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips56. What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 18 Mar 2022 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/56/what-do-kids-need-to-prepare-for-engineering54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6233e37c219be13b89db2443Show Summary:

How does a group of undergraduate engineering students perform on one of Vivify’s most popular STEM activities, the space lander design challenge? Well let’s just say we have seen middle school students with more successful designs! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha shares her experience in teaching engineering students, who plan to become STEM teachers, how to use a design challenge to promote learning of science. She describes the phases of the learning cycle, and how the space lander design challenge is a great way to apply and deepen understanding of the concepts of drag, stability, and shock absorption. Claire and Natasha also compare the engineering design process used in STEM classrooms to real world engineering.

Links from the Show:

HELP! My Students Are Struggling With TEAMWORK! <from The STEM Space podcast>

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education <from the Vivify blog>

10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom <from the Vivify blog>

Dan Siegel’s Upstairs/Downstairs Brain:

- Why Do We Lose Control of Our Emotions?

- Upstairs Brain Downstairs Brain - SEL Sketches

STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity (Printed & Digital) <from the Vivify store>

Best STEM Challenge Ever < from the Vivify Blog>

Pipecleaner STEM Challenge <from the Vivify blog>

SEEC (Space Exploration Educators Conference)

Engineering Design Process Worksheets for all STEM Challenges -Printed & Digital <FREE in our FREE STEM Explorer Library>

Houston NSTA Conference

EDP

- NASA Systems Engineering Processes and Requirements (PDF)

- OSD AT&L Defense Acquisition Process Chart

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning <from the Vivify blog>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/56/what-do-kids-need-to-prepare-for-engineering

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMHow does a group of undergraduate engineering students perform on one of Vivify’s most popular STEM activities, the space lander design challenge?How does a group of undergraduate engineering students perform on one of Vivify’s most popular STEM activities, the space lander design challenge? Well let’s just say we have seen middle school students with more successful designs! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha shares her experience in teaching engineering students, who plan to become STEM teachers, how to use a design challenge to promote learning of science. She describes the phases of the learning cycle, and how the space lander design challenge is a great way to apply and deepen understanding of the concepts of drag, stability, and shock absorption. Claire and Natasha also compare the engineering design process used in STEM classrooms to real world engineering.false00:28:23156What Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?fullWhat Do Kids Need To Prepare For Engineering?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips55. How to Teach STEM During Women's History MonthClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 11 Mar 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/55/how-to-teach-stem-during-womens-history-month54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:622a6519ec829853c62f075dShow Summary:

March is Women’s History Month! Can you name something invented by a woman? How about windshield wipers, Wite-OutⓇ, heating with solar power, the Brooklyn Bridge, the step trash can, and even every kid’s favorite fish-shaped snack? In this episode, Natasha and Claire discuss how to celebrate the contributions of women through hands-on STEM activities for your classroom.

Links from the Show:

Did You Know? Women’s History Month started as Women’s History Week…

The Invention of Wite-OutⓇ

7 Activities Featuring Women in STEM History <from the Vivify blog>

Books: 

The Boy Who Invented the Popsicle

The Crayon Man

Secret Engineer: How Emily Roebling Built the Brooklyn Bridge

All About Failure:

The STEM Space Podcast Episodes:

44. How Do You Manage Your STEM Classroom? (ft. Julie Lyons)

17. We All Need a Lesson in Failure

18. What You Should Know About Failure

From the Vivify Blog: 

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

The Importance of Failure

Breaking Down STEM Stereotypes

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity <from Vivify Store>

Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM <from the Vivify blog>

50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEM <from The STEM Space podcast>

The GoldfishⓇ Brand Story

Fish Camp - A Freshman’s First Tradition - Texas A&M University

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/55/how-to-teach-stem-during-womens-history-month

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMcelebrate the contributions of women with STEM activitiesMarch is Women’s History Month! Can you name something invented by a woman? How about windshield wipers, Wite-OutⓇ, heating with solar power, the Brooklyn Bridge, the step trash can, and even every kid’s favorite fish-shaped snack? In this episode, Natasha and Claire discuss how to celebrate the contributions of women through hands-on STEM activities for your classroom.false00:19:45155How to Teach STEM During Women's History MonthfullHow to Teach STEM During Women's History Monthinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips54. HELP! My Students Are Struggling With TEAMWORK!Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 04 Mar 2022 12:54:59 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/54/help-my-students-are-struggling-with-teamwork54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:621fdde95243650e524c78fcShow Summary:

This week, we respond to an email from Robert, a STEM teacher, who told us, “I have been a teacher for 11 years, and this is my second as our school's STEM teacher. I am STRUGGLING with teams working together. So much arguing, fighting, crying…I need all the teamwork advice I can get!” How do you facilitate good teamwork in your classroom? Join us as we discuss all things teamwork plus a creativity bellringer that Claire tried with her PreK - 7th grade students. The difference in responses was incredible and eye opening!

Links from the Show:

Claire’s “What is this?” black square in action! <from the Vivify Instagram>

Invention Convention Worldwide

Marshmallow Challenge

Previous podcast episodes mentioned:

44. How Do You Manage Your STEM Classroom?

51. How Do You Get Every Student to Speak?

Vivify Blog posts mentioned:

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Space Docking challenge: The Best 3 Back to School STEM Icebreakers

From the Vivify Store:

Stage 1 STEM:

Back to School STEM: 6 Icebreaker Teamwork Activities

Intro to Coding: Communication STEM Activity (Robonaut Challenge)

Stage 2 STEM:

STEM Space Lander Math & Engineering Activity (Printed & Digital)

STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge (Digital & Printed STEM Journals)

Straw Rocket STEM Challenge (Forces & Motion, Variables)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/54/help-my-students-are-struggling-with-teamwork

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMHelping students work togetherThis week, we respond to an email from Robert, a STEM teacher, who told us, “I have been a teacher for 11 years, and this is my second as our school's STEM teacher. I am STRUGGLING with teams working together. So much arguing, fighting, crying…I need all the teamwork advice I can get!” How do you facilitate good teamwork in your classroom? Join us as we discuss all things teamwork plus a creativity bellringer that Claire tried with her PreK - 7th grade students. The difference in responses was incredible and eye opening!false00:20:09154HELP! My Students Are Struggling With TEAMWORK!fullHELP! My Students Are Struggling With TEAMWORK!info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips53: Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. OlesenClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 18 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/53/getting-data-from-our-poop-career-chat-with-dr-olesen54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:620aba928774d93bc7b8d80eShow Summary:

Featuring questions from Space Club students, Natasha chats with Dr. Scott Olesen, a biological engineer from MIT who now works in wastewater surveillance at Biobot Analytics! This episode is the audio recording of a Career Chat episode, streamed on Vivify’s YouTube channel, as a way to share the story of STEM professionals to inspire elementary and middle school students. Listen in as Dr. Olesen gives advice on STEM careers and his pathway from an Eagle Scout with an interest in physics, a venture to France for archeology, and now tackling COVID-19 through wastewater surveillance!

Links from the Show:

How to Bring Space Club to Your School

Vivify YouTube Channel: Career Chats: Dr. Scott Olesen (Biological Engineer)
**The audio for this podcast has been edited for content and clarity.**

Natasha’s Project: SpinSat Experimental Satellite Deployed from ISS

Biobot Analytics

Data

Massachusetts jail monitoring wastewater to check for COVID-19

YouTube: Testing Wastewater to Help Detect Covid-19

Want to try your hand at a Mission Patch? Check out our STEM at Home Challenge here!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/53/getting-data-from-our-poop-career-chat-with-dr-olesen

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMA chat with a Biological Engineer who analyzes wastewaterFeaturing questions from Space Club students, Natasha chats with Dr. Scott Olesen, a biological engineer from MIT who now works in wastewater surveillance at Biobot Analytics! This episode is the audio recording of a Career Chat episode, streamed on Vivify’s YouTube channel, as a way to share the story of STEM professionals to inspire elementary and middle school students. Listen in as Dr. Olesen gives advice on STEM careers and his pathway from an Eagle Scout with an interest in physics, a venture to France for archeology, and now tackling COVID-19 through wastewater surveillance!false00:27:35153Getting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. OlesenfullGetting Data From Our Poop? Career Chat with Dr. Oleseninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips52: How to Host a STEM Family NightClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 11 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/52/how-to-host-a-stem-family-night54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6202eb58b472320407e5c9e8Show Summary:

With things finally starting to return to “normal,” how can you get families excited for STEM? HOST A STEM FAMILY NIGHT! But how do you do that? How far in advance should you start planning all of this and recruiting your help? What kind of STEM activities should you include? Planning and executing a STEM family night doesn’t have to be difficult. Tune in as Natasha walks Claire through her proven steps to make STEM family night truly EPIC and divulges some of her favorite activities to include!

Links from the Show:

STEM Family Night Information and Guide

Vivify Blog - 10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

Need to host a Virtual STEM Family night? Read this!

Vivify Store - Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, STEM Activity Instructions, Posters (includes Straw Rockets activity!)

Vivify Products Mentioned in this Episode:

Basics of Makey Makey: STEM Activity <FREE in the STEM Explorer Library>

STEM Activity Hoop Glider Challenge (Variable Testing)

STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity (Angles and Ratios)

Vivify Blog Posts Mentioned in this Episode:

Space Docking Challenge

Basics of Sphero Robotics + 3 Awesome Sphero STEM Activities

Activities and Products Recommended by Vivify in this Episode:

Strawberry DNA Experiment Steve Spangler Science

USB 2.0 Digital Microscope

Pitsco Straw Rockets – Getting Started Package

Snap Circuits

“The CLAW!”

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/52/how-to-host-a-stem-family-night

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMPlanning and executing a STEM family night With things finally starting to return to “normal,” how can you get families excited for STEM? HOST A STEM FAMILY NIGHT! But how do you do that? How far in advance should you start planning all of this and recruiting your help? What kind of STEM activities should you include? Planning and executing a STEM family night doesn’t have to be difficult. Tune in as Natasha walks Claire through her proven steps to make STEM family night truly EPIC and divulges some of her favorite activities to include!false00:29:52152How to Host a STEM Family NightfullHow to Host a STEM Family Nightinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips51. How Do You Get Every Student to Speak?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 04 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/51/how-do-you-get-every-student-to-speak54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61f9b1e8ccfa7128be5f52c1Show Summary:

Time to put on our Thinking Hats! I am light as a feather, yet the strongest person in the world can’t hold me for five minutes. What am I? 

Unsure of the answer? How do you facilitate brainstorming and get your students to ask questions? How do you give your students a voice? Do you have any brain teasers or riddles you use to get your students’ creative minds going? Tune in to this episode of The STEM Space where Claire tells Natasha all about how she helps take the pressure off of students who might be hesitant to chime in and boost both their confidence and creativity while adding voice to your classroom. (You’ll also hear the answer to the riddle above!)

Links from the Show:

Previous STEM Space Podcast Episodes:

Episode 7: How to Ask Questions

Episode 41: What is Your Problem?

Elementary STEM Con and Beyond - Register here!

Guinness World Records: 56-year-old freediver holds breath for almost 25 minutes breaking record

Who has the hat?

Vivify TikTok

Vivify Instagram

The 6 Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono

12 Ways to Boost Social-Emotional Learning with STEM <from the Vivify blog>

Download the full study here: Hands Up for Gender Equality: A Major Study into Confidence and Career Intentions of Adolescent Girls and Boys

NASA - How to Request a Speaker

Skype a Scientist

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity <from the Vivify TpT store>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/51/how-do-you-get-every-student-to-speak

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMBoost confidence and brainstorming power in your classroomTime to put on our Thinking Hats! I am light as a feather, yet the strongest person in the world can’t hold me for five minutes. What am I?  Unsure of the answer? How do you facilitate brainstorming and get your students to ask questions? How do you give your students a voice? Do you have any brain teasers or riddles you use to get your students’ creative minds going? Tune in to this episode of The STEM Space where Claire tells Natasha all about how she helps take the pressure off of students who might be hesitant to chime in and boost both their confidence and creativity while adding voice to your classroom. (You’ll also hear the answer to the riddle above!)false00:23:48151How Do You Get Every Student to Speak?fullHow Do You Get Every Student to Speak?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips50. How to Involve Girls in After-School STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 28 Jan 2022 18:24:16 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/50/how-to-involve-girls-in-after-school-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61f07a636902377719118266Show Summary:

How do we break stereotypes? More specifically the ones where our students tell us the picture of the guy in the white lab coat is “definitely” a scientist, but the picture of the beautiful lady standing next to a telescope is “just a model”. In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha share a listener’s email asking how to be inclusive of boys and girls within an after-school STEM program. Tune in to learn how to start an exciting program and convince your students that they, too, can be successful engineers, scientists, or whatever else they aspire to be.

Links from the Show:

Vivify Blog Posts in this Episode:

- Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM 

- Bring Space Club to Your School!

- How to Start an After School STEM Club

- STEM Explorers: Travel the World with STEM Activities for Elementary

- How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Previous The STEM Space Podcasts Mentioned:

- Why You Should Teach Space

- STEM Careers in your Classroom

Girls outperform boys at school, yet still shy away from STEM

- Download the full study here: Hands Up for Gender Equality: A Major Study into Confidence and Career Intentions of Adolescent Girls and Boys

NASA - Request a Speaker

Skype a Scientist

Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.om/thestemspace/2022/50/how-to-involve-girls-in-after-school-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMHow do we break stereotypes and make STEM accessible to allHow do we break stereotypes? More specifically the ones where our students tell us the picture of the guy in the white lab coat is “definitely” a scientist, but the picture of the beautiful lady standing next to a telescope is “just a model”. In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha share a listener’s email asking how to be inclusive of boys and girls within an after-school STEM program. Tune in to learn how to start an exciting program and convince your students that they, too, can be successful engineers, scientists, or whatever else they aspire to be.false00:13:56150How to Involve Girls in After-School STEMfullHow to Involve Girls in After-School STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips49. Big Things Happening in 2022!Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 14 Jan 2022 11:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/49/big-things-happening-in-202254807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61e0b55154041b594cbeb8ffShow Summary:

Feeling overwhelmed? Quarantines. Hybrid classes. Distance learning. Whew! Well good news! We are focused on continuing to provide more STEM resources for you than ever before, wherever you are! Your favorite space nerd teachers are so excited to help you bring all of these exciting things (and more) to you! What are you most excited for this year? (Our Marketing and Programs Coordinator is most excited for a new addition from one of us and is hoping to share a birthday!)

Links from the Show:

Learn more about Space Club!

- Space Club website/registration

- Space Club Career Chats (Vivify STEM YouTube)

SEEC (Space Exploration Educators Conference)

27. Launching a High Altitude Balloon (from The STEM Space Podcast)

Elementary STEM Con & Beyond

STEM Homework (from the Vivify Instagram)

Invention Convention

SA Smart

“What is a Stage 3 challenge?” The 3 Stages of STEM

Alphabet STEM

Vivify Team

STEM Explorers (from the Vivify blog) and Curriculum

Baby Remi Science Videos can be found on the Vivify STEM TikTok

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2022/49/big-things-happening-in-2022

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMResources, programs, and more to look forward to!Feeling overwhelmed? Quarantines. Hybrid classes. Distance learning. Whew! Well good news! We are focused on continuing to provide more STEM resources for you than ever before, wherever you are! Your favorite space nerd teachers are so excited to help you bring all of these exciting things (and more) to you! What are you most excited about this year? (Our Marketing and Programs Coordinator is most excited for a new addition from one of us and is hoping to share a birthday!)false00:26:25149Big Things Happening in 2022!fullBig Things Happening in 2022!info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips48. What Is In Our Air?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 31 Dec 2021 17:15:39 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/48-what-is-in-our-air54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61c4c899b265d90e18152243Show Summary:

“WHAT ARE THOSE?!”

Pictured are two real pig lungs that were part of a scientific inquiry activity on air pollution! On this episode of The STEM Space Podcast, Natasha and Claire take a deep dive into an authentic inquiry experience that involves using air sensors to measure sources of air pollution in your local area, playing a “Mystery Town” game to discover air pollution around the world, and using a gross demonstration to highlight the impacts of air pollution on human health.

The episode describes a curriculum developed through Natasha’s work with CARTEEH at Texas A&M University. Click here to request access to the FREE Air Pollution Curriculum and Science Kit!

Links from the Show:

42. How Do You Chew? <The STEM Space Podcast>

Nasco-Guard, Preserved BioQuest® Inflatable Lungs Comparison Kit

STEM Balloon Rocket Design Challenge

Teach Engineering’s “I Breathe WHAT?” Activity that failed for Natasha

How to make SMOG experiment! (Make smog in a jar)

47. What Maps Have To Do With Creativity <The STEM Space Podcast>

This Is Your Brain On Drugs Ad, explained (Most Famous Anti-Drug Ad)

The Pig Lungs in Action! <from Vivify’s Instagram>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/48-what-is-in-our-air

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMPig lungs and pollution“WHAT ARE THOSE?” you’re probably asking as you view the image. As Natasha explains in this podcast, those, dear listeners, are pig lungs! On this episode of The STEM Space Podcast, Natasha and Claire dive deep into air quality and, quite simply, how to get your students to ask questions. Whether it’s a failed STEM activity Natasha found online and attempted or showing students the (simulated) effects of smoking, tune in to hear all about how Natasha got a group of 6th graders to examine the world from a slightly broader angle and how to bring this slightly gross yet cool experience to your classroom.false00:33:58148What Is In Our Air?fullWhat Is In Our Air?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips47. What Maps Have To Do With CreativityClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 24 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/47-what-maps-have-to-do-with-creativity54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61c25ad5b7563b75eb211464Show Summary:

Everyone is born either creative or not, right? WRONG! Listen in as Claire and Natasha discuss creativity and an exciting project you can try in your STEM classroom. From Mapsco (if you feel bad, don’t - Natasha didn’t know what this was either) to creating your own compass, listen in and find out just how much technology has been replacing some important life skills and how Claire creatively brought them back into the classroom.

Links from the Show:

Claire’s Graduate Program books:

- Zig Zag: The Surprising Path to Greater Creativity by Keith Sawyer

- Creativity: The Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

NASA Space Place: How Does GPS Work?

“What the heck is Mapsco?” Here is a history for those of us, like Natasha, who didn’t know.

How to Make a Simple Compass

The Importance of Failure <from the Vivify blog>

5 Skills That Students Are Losing Because of Tech

12 Ways to Boost Social-Emotional Learning with STEM <from the Vivify blog>

The Science Of Twinkies: How Do They Last So Darned Long?

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/47-what-maps-have-to-do-with-creativity

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMEveryone is born either creative or not, right? WRONG!Everyone is born either creative or not, right? WRONG! Listen in as Claire and Natasha discuss creativity and an exciting project you can try in your STEM classroom. From Mapsco (if you feel bad, don’t - Natasha didn’t know what this was either) to creating your own compass, listen in and find out just how much technology has been replacing some important life skills and how Claire creatively brought them back into the classroom.false00:22:22147What Maps Have To Do With CreativityfullWhat Maps Have To Do With Creativityinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips46. STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia LagoudasClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsSat, 11 Dec 2021 13:26:38 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/46-stem-career-chat-with-bioengineer-dr-georgia-lagoudas54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61ae8412a768ad77befca807Show Summary:

Everyone knows that engineers are nerdy guys with glasses and scientists always have crazy hair! Our STEM Career Chat with bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas is here to help students break down the stereotypes around STEM careers by showing them that anyone, including them, can be an engineer or scientist! Whether she’s sleeping on snow (not something she was used to having grown up in Texas) or fangirling in an elevator with movie stars and senators, Dr. Lagoudas discusses what it’s like to be a Congressional Science and Technology Policy Fellow and how you don’t necessarily have to narrow your life path down to one fork in the road.

Links from the Show:

Space Club Career Chats: Dr. Lagoudas <from the Vivify YouTube channel>

Georgia Lagoudas, AAAS Congressional Science & Technology Policy Fellow

Finding Student Sparks: 10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities <from the Vivify blog>

Learn more about getting your students involved with Space Club here!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/46-stem-career-chat-with-bioengineer-dr-georgia-lagoudas

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMEveryone knows that engineers are nerdy guys with glasses and scientists always have crazy hair! Our STEM Career Chat with bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas is here to help students break down the stereotypes around STEM careers by showing them that anyone can be an engineer or scientist!Everyone knows that engineers are nerdy guys with glasses and scientists always have crazy hair! Our STEM Career Chat with bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudas is here to help students break down the stereotypes around STEM careers by showing them that anyone, including them, can be an engineer or scientist! Whether she’s sleeping on snow (not something she was used to having grown up in Texas) or fangirling in an elevator with movie stars and senators, Dr. Lagoudas discusses what it’s like to be a Congressional Science and Technology Policy Fellow and how you don’t necessarily have to narrow your life path down to one fork in the road.false00:27:59146STEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia LagoudasfullSTEM Career Chat with Bioengineer Dr. Georgia Lagoudasinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips45. The Best STEM Challenge EverClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 12 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/45-the-best-stem-challenge-ever54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:618d7ec0dad72c120a61c239Show Summary:

Weather balloons, rockets, and space landers? Oh my! STEM has so many projects and products out there, it can be hard to narrow it down to not only what works, but what's fun and STILL educational for your students. From pizza-stealing aliens to homemade roller coaster projects taller than a third grader, tune in to learn about and become inspired by Natasha and Claire's favorite STEM challenges.

Links from the Show:

Vivify blog posts mentioned:

- 10 Amazing STEM Family Night Activities

- How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

- Pipecleaner STEM Challenge

Pitsco Education Straw Rocket Launcher

Food Truck Championship of Texas <from the Vivify Facebook page>

Acronyms: STEM vs STEAM+ <from The STEM Space Podcast>

Architect Wanira Magaloni Space Club Career Chat <from the Vivify STEM Space Club YouTube>

Learn more about Space Club here! It’s FREE!

Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC)

Vivify products mentioned <from the Vivify store>

- Straw Rocket STEM Challenge (Forces & Motion)

- Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide

- Roller Coaster STEM Challenge - Engineering Design (K-5)

Moon/Mars Colony Project/Competition

- Mission to the Moon: K-5 or 6-9

- Mission to Mars: K-5 or 5-9

Space Lander STEM Challenge: K-5 or 5-8

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/45-the-best-stem-challenge-ever

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMFrom pizza-stealing aliens to homemade roller coaster projects taller than a third grader, tune in to learn about and become inspired by Natasha and Claire's favorite STEM challenges.Weather balloons, rockets, and space landers? Oh my! STEM has so many projects and products out there, it can be hard to narrow it down to not only what works, but what's fun and STILL educational for your students. From pizza-stealing aliens to homemade roller coaster projects taller than a third grader, tune in to learn about and become inspired by Natasha and Claire's favorite STEM challenges.false00:16:05145The Best STEM Challenge EverfullThe Best STEM Challenge Everinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips44. How Do You Manage Your STEM Classroom?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 05 Nov 2021 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/44-how-do-you-manage-your-stem-classroom54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61842ef5a4bc360595b49dbfShow Summary:

How do you manage your STEM classroom? Do you have labels on everything or are you a bit less organized but still (somehow) coordinated? Join Natasha and Claire as they jump into a STEM classroom management discussion with special guest, Julie Lyons, a 15-year veteran of STEM education and current guest blogger and curriculum designer for Vivify STEM. Listen in as she shares her information on how routines are useful to classroom management but sometimes you just have to let it (kind of) go and work within the boundaries of "coordinated chaos".

Links from the Show:

Vivify blog posts by guest Julie Lyons

- 10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom

- Brain Safety Football STEM Challenge

Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education <from the Vivify blog>

Making Time for STEM <from The STEM Space Podcast>

Must Haves for a STEM Lab <from the Vivify blog>

STEM Task Cards: Building Icebreakers <quick build challenges for grades PreK-8 from the Vivify store>

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge <from the Vivify store>

Vivify’s Favorite STEM Suppliers:

- Pitsco Education

- Steve Spangler Science

- STEMfinity

- STEMfinity - Robotics

Need more STEM resources? Check out Vivify Recommendations for the best websites, games, and phone apps to organizations and STEM suppliers! We carefully searched for high quality activities that are not only fun and engaging but educational and promote STEM careers. Updated semi-annually.

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/44-how-do-you-manage-your-stem-classroom

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMCoordinated ChaosHow do you manage your STEM classroom? Do you have labels on everything or are you a bit less organized but still (somehow) coordinated? Join Natasha and Claire as they jump into a STEM classroom management discussion with special guest, Julie Lyons, a 15-year veteran of STEM education and current guest blogger and curriculum designer for Vivify STEM. Listen in as she shares her information on how routines are useful to classroom management but sometimes you just have to let it (kind of) go and work within the boundaries of "coordinated chaos".false00:19:49144How Do You Manage Your STEM Classroom?fullHow Do You Manage Your STEM Classroom?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips43. How Do We Define Success In STEM?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 29 Oct 2021 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/43-how-do-we-define-success-in-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6178c7e2b9c3f609f62b88d9Show Summary:

Can you design a roller coaster? Is it the process or the product that matters? How do we define success in STEM, especially with all of the variables presented to us as teachers? In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire discuss all the learning curves the majority of us encounter when trying to map out a STEM curriculum, make sure all the proper standards apply, and discern whether our students are actually taking anything away from their STEM activities. Listen in and let us know what you think!

Links from the Show:

Space Club - FREE!

Roller Coaster STEM Activity <from the Vivify store>

Superhero Robotic Arm: STEM At Home Activity <from the Vivify blog>

Rover STEM Engineering Design Challenge <from the Vivify store>

Elementary (K-5) version

Middle School (5-9) version

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward <from the Vivify blog>

Engineering Habits of Mind: Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning <from the Vivify blog>

Debug an Object: Backpack <from the Vivify Instagram>

Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

Reflections from a First Year STEM Teacher <from The STEM Space Podcast>

Natasha’s Thesis

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIs it the process or the product that matters?Can you design a roller coaster? Is it the process or the product that matters? How do we define success in STEM, especially with all of the variables presented to us as teachers? In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire discuss all the learning curves the majority of us encounter when trying to map out a STEM curriculum, make sure all the proper standards apply, and discern whether our students are actually taking anything away from their STEM activities. false00:21:12143How Do We Define Success In STEM?fullHow Do We Define Success In STEM?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips42. How Do You Chew?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 15 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/42-how-do-you-chew54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6168903b28f29128c4d78d49Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire return to answer the much anticipated question: did Natasha get to eat her sandwich in class? Her professor had some very specific instructions (including but not limited to: don’t eat breakfast, bring a sandwich for lunch, and also bring a 1 pound bag of M&M’s) which left both Claire and our listeners scratching their heads. Listen now to find out what happened and how you can apply the thinking to your classroom!
P.S. Sadly, we could find no studies proving Claire’s statement that M&M’s taste differently.

Links from the Show:

STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge <from the Vivify Store>

M&Ms “Blending In” Activity

Texas A&M University (Claire and Natasha’s alma mater as well as their “Aggies” reference)

Introducing Kids to STEM Concepts <from the Vivify Instagram>

Abraham Wald and Survivorship bias (WWII planes returning with bullet holes)

How to Plan a STEM Curriculum <from the Vivify website>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/42-how-do-you-chew

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIn this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire return to answer the much anticipated question: did Natasha get to eat her sandwich in class?In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire return to answer the much anticipated question: did Natasha get to eat her sandwich in class? Her professor had some very specific instructions (including but not limited to: don’t eat breakfast, bring a sandwich for lunch, and also bring a 1 pound bag of M&M’s) which left both Claire and our listeners scratching their heads. Listen now to find out what happened and how you can apply the thinking to your classroom! P.S. Sadly, we could find no studies proving Claire’s statement that M&M’s taste differently.false00:25:43142How Do You Chew?fullHow Do You Chew?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips41. What is Your Problem?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 17 Sep 2021 17:05:53 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/41-what-is-your-problem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6141423887409e6f4c76bce4Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss how to solve other problems you or your students may encounter. From Monkey the dog crossing a river without getting wet to a Masters Degree Program Professor inviting Natasha and the rest of class to participate in an oddly specific experiment, tune in to discover how you might benefit from asking the right questions.

Links from the Show:
Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning? <from the Vivify blog>

Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning <from the Vivify blog>

Bird Feeder STEM Engineering & Research Activity <from the Vivify Store>

Thinking Tools - CIA Phoenix Checklist

Save the Bees! Pollinator Hotel STEM Challenge <from the Vivify Store>

What is a Mind Map? <aka “Idea Cloud”>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/41-what-is-your-problem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMAre you asking the right questions? In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss how to follow the engineering design process (or something like it) to solve other problems you or your students may encounter.In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss how to solve other problems you or your students may encounter. From Monkey the dog crossing a river without getting wet to a Masters Degree Program Professor inviting Natasha and the rest of class to participate in an oddly specific experiment, tune in to discover how you might benefit from asking the right questions. false00:17:57141What is Your Problem?fullWhat is Your Problem?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips40. Escape the STEM RoomClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 03 Sep 2021 14:17:51 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/40-escape-the-stem-room54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:613121925cec7a2961a1d810Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha are discussing Claire's "Escape the STEM Room" challenge that she is teaching the first week of school, and the importance of introducing your students to difficult situations. From teamwork to public speaking and sharing what they've learned, tune in to learn more about Claire's plans to navigate this challenge and hopes to inspire educators everywhere!

Links from the Show:

Escape Rooms in STEM Teaching and Learning - MDPI (PDF)

Digital Breakout Template - Google (includes video & multiple helpful links!)

Engineering Design Process Worksheets (FREE from Vivify STEM’s TpT Store))

Podcast: Episode 34. We Interviewed an Astronaut

Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge (from Vivify STEM’s TpT Store)

Space Club Career Chat: Wanira Magaloni (Architect Designer at Stantec)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/40-escape-the-stem-room

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMintroducing your students to difficult situationsIn this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha are discussing Claire's "Escape the STEM Room" challenge that she is teaching the first week of school, and the importance of introducing your students to difficult situations. From teamwork to public speaking and sharing what they've learned, tune in to learn more about Claire's plans to navigate this challenge and hopes to inspire educators everywhere! false00:17:02140Escape the STEM RoomfullEscape the STEM Roominfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips39. How Did We Get Here?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 27 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/39-how-did-we-get-here54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61255417ebbc0b42d8cb36edShow Summary:

The STEM Space loves hearing from you! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire address an email from listener Jess Luttrell, who wanted to know how they decided to make the transition from careers in STEM fields to STEM education. Having a STEM background can mean an easier way to connect STEM to student interests by engaging kids with the exciting possibilities of real-world STEM either by teaching or simply volunteering. Tune in as they talk about their inspirations and continuing to evolve with the wide world of STEM education.

Links from the Show:

Previous Podcast Episodes:

Episode 1 - The 3 Stages of STEM

Episode 2 - STEM Careers in Your Classroom

Episode 8 - STEM vs STEAM

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities <from the Vivify blog>

Public vs Private Schools Certification

AAAS Guidelines for Starting a STEM Volunteer Program

Soft Skills in Teaching

San Antonio Doseum

National Museum of the Pacific War and Admiral Nimitz Foundation, Fredericksburg, TX

National Board Standards - NBPTS (5 Core Propositions)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/39-how-did-we-get-here

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMThe STEM Space loves hearing from you! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire discuss an email from listener Jess Luttrell, who wanted to know how they decided to make the transition from careers in STEM fields to STEM education. The STEM Space loves hearing from you! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire address an email from listener Jess Luttrell, who wanted to know how they decided to make the transition from careers in STEM fields to STEM education. Having a STEM background can mean an easier way to connect STEM to student interests by engaging kids with the exciting possibilities of real-world STEM either by teaching or simply volunteering. Tune in as they talk about their inspirations and continuing to evolve with the wide world of STEM education. false00:22:23139How Did We Get Here?fullHow Did We Get Here?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips38. Back to School STEMClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 06 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/38-back-to-school-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:610c46c2c1f83b64dfdb0e49Show Summary:

It’s time to go back to school! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire talk about ideas you can use at the beginning of the school year. From icebreaker activities and character-building exercises to engineering design challenges and classroom decor, tune in to get some tips and tricks as you prepare for the best year yet in STEM education!

Links from the Show:

Get Your Classroom Ready for Back to School <latest on the Vivify blog>

Name Plates STEM Activity for Back to School

Find Student Sparks <from the Vivify blog>

Brown Dog Gadgets Maker Tape

Paper Circuit Activity and STEM Challenges Cheat Sheet from our free resource library (Must first sign up for our free newsletter here).

STEM Space at Home Moon Solar Tower Challenge <from the Vivify blog>

The STEM Space Podcast: Episode 33. My Students Built a Wheelchair

10 Simple Summer STEM Activities <from the Vivify blog>

Brittany Washburn's Technology Teaching Resources

Robonaut STEM Activity

STEM Tower Challenges

Newspaper STEM Challenges

Mars Colony Competition <from the Vivify blog>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/38-back-to-school-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIt’s time to go back to school! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire talk all things STEM and back to school. How can you get started this year for back to school STEM? Tune in to learn ideas for icebreakers and different challenges you can do as you get started this school year!It’s time to go back to school! In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire talk about ideas you can use at the beginning of the school year. From icebreaker activities and character-building exercises to engineering design challenges and classroom decor, tune in to get some tips and tricks as you prepare for the best year yet in STEM education!false00:17:07138Back to School STEMfullBack to School STEMinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips37. The Learning Potential of Space ClubClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 30 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/37-the-learning-potential-of-space-club54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:61005e7875c083513e3b32f3Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire discuss their excitement around Space Club: a STEM program designed to excite your students about real-world STEM and space exploration. Whether you use Space Club during school hours, after school, or even at your local library, tune in to this episode to learn about the benefits of participating in Space Club, how it relates to various learning theories, and how you can launch your students forward with a Mission to the Moon.

Links from the Show:

Bring Space Club to your school! If you are interested in a space-themed curriculum, check out Space Club missions that connect students from around the world! In partnership with NASA, Vivify STEM ran semester-long space missions that included engineering design challenges, weekly career chats, a live leaderboard, career chats with astronauts and engineers, and a chance to win robots and telescopes before Natasha formed the non-profit Cosmic Leap Foundation! From afterschool clubs to STEM classes, teachers can implement Space Club either in-person or through distance learning, now completely FREE! 

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward <from the Vivify blog>

Learning Theories podcast episodes:

Episode 13 on Behavioral Learning Theory

Episode 14 on Developmental Learning Theory

Episode 15 on Constructivist Learning Theory

Episode 16: Everything You Know About Learning Styles Is Wrong

Fad checker based on Learning Theories: in our free resource library!

Not all STEM is equal (podcast Episode 1) (blog post)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/37-the-learning-potential-of-space-club

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMNatasha & Claire discuss Space Club's effect on various learning styles.In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha and Claire discuss their excitement around Space Club: a STEM program designed to excite your students about real-world STEM and space exploration. Whether you use Space Club during school hours, after school, or even at your local library, tune in to this episode to learn about the benefits of participating in Space Club, how it relates to various learning theories, and how you can launch your students forward with a Mission to the Moon. false00:22:38137The Learning Potential of Space ClubfullThe Learning Potential of Space Clubinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips36. Are You A Visualizer?Classroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 23 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/36-are-you-a-visualizer54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60f7878d0f31d77fba3802c5Show Summary:

Are you a visualizer or a verbalizer? In this episode of The STEM Space Podcast, Natasha and Claire discuss learning styles as well as exploring if the old adage of "left brain versus right brain" still holds true. How can we modify our teaching to accommodate individual student learning styles while maintaining the integrity of our subjects? Tune in to find out!

Links from the Show:

Article: The Role of Instruction Preference in Analogy Learning: Brain Activity and Motor Performance

Episode 16: Everything You Know About Learning Styles Is Wrong

Episode 7: How to ask questions.

Episode 19: How to motivate your students.

A Neuroscientist’s Top 5 STEM Activities for Kids and Families <from the Vivify blog>

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/36-are-you-a-visualizer

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMLeft brain versus right brain - does it still hold true?Are you a visualizer or a verbalizer? In this episode of The STEM Space Podcast, Natasha and Claire discuss learning styles as well as exploring if the old adage of "left brain versus right brain" still holds true. How can we modify our teaching to accommodate individual student learning styles while maintaining the integrity of our subjects? Tune in to find out!false00:13:50136Are You A Visualizer?fullAre You A Visualizer?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips35. Question EverythingClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 16 Jul 2021 16:43:43 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/35-question-everything54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60f08b9ad2428c17002b5822Show Summary:

In this episode of The STEM Space Podcast, Natasha and Claire discuss biases in the technology we use every day. We tend to trust computers and technology, but they are actually just as flawed as the humans who created them. These flaws can include biases in the algorithms that make decisions. How can you talk to your students about how to be cautious when using technology and interpreting the results? Tune in to find out!

Links from the Show:

Netflix: Coded Bias

Racial Bias in Facial Recognition Technology

Gender Bias in STEM: Top 10 Ways to Encourage Girls in STEM <from the Vivify blog>

Facial Recognition And Beyond: Journalist Ventures Inside China's 'Surveillance State'

Women are overmedicated because drug dosage trials are done on men, study finds

Amazon scraps secret AI recruiting tool that showed bias against women

Seven Houston Teachers, Houston Federation of Teachers File Lawsuit Challenging Constitutionality of Value-Added Measure for Evaluations

Mars Probe Lost Due to Simple Math Error

Critical thinking is a 21st-century essential — here’s how to help kids learn it

From Learning to Relearning: A Framework for Diminishing Bias in Social Robot Navigation

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/35-question-everything

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMBias in Technology and EducationIn this episode of The STEM Space Podcast, Natasha and Claire discuss biases in the technology we use every day. We tend to trust computers and technology, but they are actually just as flawed as the humans who created them. These flaws can include biases in the algorithms that make decisions. How can you talk to your students about how to be cautious when using technology and interpreting the results? Tune in to find out!false00:13:31135Question EverythingfullQuestion Everythinginfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips34. We Interviewed an AstronautClassroom ResourcesTeaching TipsFri, 09 Jul 2021 14:51:28 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/34-we-interviewed-an-astronaut54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60e752cebf896b176e94c2d7SHOW SUMMARY:
Who doesn't dream of growing up to be an astronaut? In this episode, Natasha and Claire share their experience from interviewing an astronaut! So much can be gained from exposing your students to professionals that work in STEM fields too. Tune in to learn about the importance of connecting your students with STEM professionals and tips on how to bring speakers to your classroom.

Links from the Show:

Find out more about Space Teams here and use our Discount Code for 10% off: VSTEM321

Learn about Space Club

Astronaut Gregory “Box” Johnson

Astronaut Dr. Greg Chamitoff

How to teach Growth Mindset & Failing Forward <from the Vivify blog>

STEM on Station - lesson plans and videos for educators from the International Space Station

Request an astronaut speaker from NASA

Skype a Scientist

Weather Balloon Project:

Read our blog post on the weather balloon project

Check out our podcast episode about the weather balloon project (episode 27)

10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities <from the Vivify blog>

Free Interview Questions to Ask a STEM Professional

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/34-we-interviewed-an-astronaut

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIntroduce your students to STEM professionalsWho doesn't dream of growing up to be an astronaut? In this episode, Natasha and Claire share their experience from interviewing an astronaut! So much can be gained from exposing your students to professionals that work in STEM fields too. Tune in to learn about the importance of connecting your students with STEM professionals and tips on how to bring speakers to your classroom. false00:20:05134We Interviewed an AstronautfullWe Interviewed an Astronautinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources, Teaching Tips33. My Students Built A WheelchairClassroom ResourcesFri, 25 Jun 2021 17:02:03 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/33-my-students-built-a-wheelchair54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60d4cc385cfd033e5f76438fSHOW SUMMARY:
Do you know a child in need of a wheelchair? In this episode, Claire shares her experience with her 4th graders that took on building an inexpensive wheelchair for a child in need thanks to the Open Wheelchair Foundation. Tune in to hear how she was surprised by her students and what plans there are for future builds.

Links from the Show:

BYU students make the world's lightest, least expensive motorized wheelchair.

The Open Wheelchair Foundation

Thrilling STEM Activities for Kids: Roller Coaster Challenge

Pipecleaner STEM Challenge (Tallest Tower)

How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

12 Ways to Boost Social-Emotional Learning

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/33-my-students-built-a-wheelchair

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMMy 4th graders used STEM and empathy to help a peer in need. Do you know a child in need of a wheelchair? In this episode, Claire shares her experience with her 4th graders that took on building an inexpensive wheelchair for a child in need thanks to the Open Wheelchair Foundation. Tune in to hear how she was surprised by her students and what plans there are for future builds.false00:10:36133My Students Built A WheelchairfullMy Students Built A Wheelchairinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources32. Preparing Our Students for the FutureClassroom ResourcesSun, 20 Jun 2021 04:22:32 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/32-preparing-our-students-for-the-future54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60c1274461766c10c2e3d173SHOW SUMMARY:
Do you use extended reality technology in your classroom? Have you ever heard of extended reality? I bet you have heard of virtual reality or holograms. In this episode, Claire shares what she is learning in graduate school about some advanced technology trends that you may consider using in your own teaching. Tune in to hear how to prepare your students for the future of this emerging technology.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Five Principles for Thinking Like a Futurist

Report about Extended Reality and technology trends: 2021 Tech Trends Report, Vol. 3. New Realities

From the 60 Minutes archive: Letting future generations speak with Holocaust survivors

The creators of the Holocaust Survivor “Holograms” and also where you can see these exhibits near you: USC Shoah Foundation – The Institute for Visual History and Education

Everything you know about velociraptors is a lie

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/32-preparing-our-students-for-the-future

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMUsing virtual reality technologies in the classroomDo you use extended reality technology in your classroom? Have you ever heard of extended reality? I bet you have heard of virtual reality or holograms. In this episode, Claire shares what she is learning in graduate school about some advanced technology trends that you may consider using in your own teaching. Tune in to hear how to prepare your students for the future of this emerging technology.false00:21:46132Preparing Our Students for the FuturefullPreparing Our Students for the Futureinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources31. Reflections from a First Year STEM TeacherClassroom ResourcesMon, 07 Jun 2021 06:20:19 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/31-reflections-from-a-first-year-stem-teacher54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60bdb679f8df0c1531748ec2SHOW SUMMARY:
Whew! Being a first-year STEM teacher can be very overwhelming. This episode is all about Claire’s experience after her first year as a formal classroom teacher. Learn about the curriculum she used, tips and tricks to make teaching STEM more effective, and some lessons learned that will help you with your own STEM education journey! Let us know what advice you would add in the comments below.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

The 3 Stages of STEM (blog post) (Episode 1 podcast)

STEM Explorers Curriculum

Launchpad Curriculum:

- Mission to the Moon - Elementary School or Middle School

- Mission to Mars - Elementary School or Middle School

Designing a School Garden STEM Project

Weather Balloon STEM Project (blog posts) (podcast episode 30)

How to build a motorized wheelchair for a child- The Open Wheelchair Foundation

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/31-reflections-from-a-First-Year-STEM-Teacher

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMTakeaways from teaching STEM in the classroomWhew! Being a first-year STEM teacher can be very overwhelming. This episode is all about Claire’s experience after her first year as a formal classroom teacher. Learn about the curriculum she used, tips and tricks to make teaching STEM more effective, and some lessons learned that will help you with your own STEM education journey! Let us know what advice you would add in the comments below.false00:16:49131Reflections from a First Year STEM TeacherfullReflections from a First Year STEM Teacherinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources30. Launching A High Altitude Balloon Part 2Classroom ResourcesSat, 22 May 2021 01:01:44 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/30-launching-a-high-altitude-balloon-part-254807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60a8509fc167506808697812SHOW SUMMARY:
As a follow-up from Episode 27, learn about Claire’s recent experience launching a high-altitude balloon with her 5th and 6th graders. This project incorporates math, science, engineering, and technology in an incredible experience that students will remember forever! Listen in to learn more!

For all the details about how you can do this with your students, join us for our session on launching a high-altitude balloon in the Champions for Science Middle School Conference. Learn more here: http://bit.ly/champ4sci2021 (Update 1/1/2025 to add this event has been archived but we hope if you had access that you enjoyed it!)

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Episode 27: Launching a High Altitude Balloon (Part 1)

High Altitude Balloon Kit

Getting Started with High Altitude Ballooning

Weather Balloon Launch Project Guide

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/30-launching-a-high-altitude-balloon-part-2

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMTake your students on an epic journey to the edge of spaceAs a follow-up from Episode 27, learn about Claire’s recent experience launching a high-altitude balloon with her 5th and 6th graders. This project incorporates math, science, engineering, and technology in an incredible experience that students will remember forever! Listen in to learn more! For all the details about how you can do this with your students, join us for our session on launching a high-altitude balloon in the Champions for Science Middle School Conference. Learn more here: http://bit.ly/champ4sci2021 false00:28:30130Launching A High Altitude Balloon Part 2fullLaunching A High Altitude Balloon Part 2info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources29. Why Do We Teach Engineering in Schools?Classroom ResourcesSat, 03 Apr 2021 02:08:43 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/29-why-do-we-teach-engineering-in-schools54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:606737a16ebe2b3d54fd8ad2SHOW SUMMARY:
What is the narrative being promoted when we are teaching engineering? Are we trying to train kids to be ready for their careers or should the focus be on something else? Tune in to this episode where we discuss this subject and the importance of knowing why we teach (or perhaps even “if we should teach”) engineering in grade school.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Engineering is Elementary (Update 1/1/2025: EIE is now known as Youth Engineering Solutions or YES)

How To Start an After School STEM Club and Teaching Space Inspires Youth blog posts

Distance Learning STEM Curriculum: Mission to Moon

Open Wheelchair Foundation

Blog post on STEM Career Classroom Activities and Student Sparks

Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning and related Vivify Instagram Post on the Engineering Habits of Mind

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/29-why-do-we-teach-engineering-in-schools

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMWhat is the narrative we are pursuing with STEM education?What is the narrative being promoted when we are teaching engineering? Are we trying to train kids to be ready for their careers or should the focus be on something else? Tune in to this episode where we discuss this subject and the importance of knowing why we teach (or perhaps even “if we should teach”) engineering in grade school. false00:21:10129Why Do We Teach Engineering in Schools?fullWhy Do We Teach Engineering in Schools?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources28. Elementary STEM Con & BeyondClassroom ResourcesFri, 19 Mar 2021 10:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/28-elementary-stem-con-and-beyond54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:605415404fb33177989dfe9dSHOW SUMMARY:
The best virtual conference for STEM educators is just around the corner and we are sharing all the details to let you know why you don’t want to miss it. The conference is April 16-19, 2021 and the best part is, you don’t have to be available to watch anything on those days because your registration gives you access to ALL the content for an entire year! Here are a few of the details but you can find out all the information on the conference website here:

Register here and included in your registration you will automatically get our entire Space STEM Bundle for free as a gift from us! Here are the registration costs.

Regular Registration ($39.98): February 1 - March 31, 2021

Late Registration ($45.98): April 1 - 15, 2021

Last Chance Registration ($49.98): April 16 - 30, 2021

Conference Content:

45+ sessions, panels, and interviews from 25+ passionate educators

30+ hours of video & live sessions

Bonus Bundle of $50+ in STEM resources for all attendees

$20,000+ in raffles, & giveaways

Private conference Facebook group to interact with presenters and win prizes

PD credit

Session Topics include: 

Teaching STEM Through the Lens of Space Exploration

Taking The Next Step With A Long-Term STEM Project

Hosting a STEM Family Night

Integrating STEM with literature and content standards in multiple content areas

Authentic STEAM 

Culturally responsive STEM/STEAM

Social-emotional learning & STEM/STEAM

Makerspaces & Builder Clubs

Special education & STEM/STEAM

Augmented Reality apps

Robotics

Distance learning approaches & modifications

Green screen

The EDP, helping kids deal with failure, questioning methods, and many more!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Elementary STEM Con & Beyond Website

Virtual STEM Family Night

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/28-elementary-stem-con-and-beyond

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMDon't miss this amazing virtual conference for STEM educators of all grade levelsThe best virtual conference for STEM educators is just around the corner and we are sharing all the details to let you know why you don’t want to miss it. The conference is April 16-19, 2021 and the best part is, you don’t have to be available to watch anything on those days because your registration gives you access to ALL the content for an entire year! You can find out all the information on the conference website here: bit.ly/stemcon2021false00:17:52128Elementary STEM Con & BeyondfullElementary STEM Con & Beyondinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources27. Launching A High Altitude BalloonClassroom ResourcesFri, 12 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/27-launching-a-high-altitude-balloon54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60498eb1514ff302422856e5SHOW SUMMARY:
If you have ever thought about giving your students a high-flying hands-on project to apply their math, science, and engineering skills, we have the perfect project for you! Launch a high-altitude balloon to the edge of space! In this episode, Natasha shares her years of experience with this project as Claire prepares to embark on this epic journey with her students. Get all the details of how you can do it too.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

High Altitude Balloon Kit

Getting Started with High Altitude Ballooning

Weather Balloon Launch Project Guide

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/27-launching-a-high-altitude-balloon

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMTake your students on an epic journey to the edge of spaceIf you have ever thought about giving your students a high-flying hands-on project to apply their math, science, and engineering skills, we have the perfect project for you! Launch a high-altitude balloon to the edge of space! In this episode, Natasha shares her years of experience with this project as Claire prepares to embark on this epic journey with her students. Get all the details of how you can do it too. false00:37:48127Launching A High Altitude BalloonfullLaunching A High Altitude Ballooninfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Classroom Resources26. Making Time for STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)Teaching TipsFri, 05 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/26-making-time-for-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:601ad7df49ae6433cd0de745SHOW SUMMARY:
Do you find yourself desiring more time to teach STEM? Maybe you only have 15 minutes to complete a STEM activity, but is that enough? In this episode, we are joined by Kerry Tracy to discuss how to have meaningful STEM lessons in short class periods and ideas for gaining more time to do STEM!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Episode 24- Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

For Quick Meaningful STEM activities, try 50 Distance Learning Icebreakers & Games

STEM Ideals by Kerry Tracy with a STEM Ideals freebie

Kerry Tracy’s STEM Challenge Assessments Blog Post (has the rubrics freebie) and STEM Lesson Templates

When Your Principal is a STEM Challenge Skeptic

Design a Mars Colony Digital Design Challenge and Competition

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/26—making-time-for-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMHow much time is needed to make STEM meaningful?Do you find yourself desiring more time to teach STEM? Maybe you only have 15 minutes to complete a STEM activity, but is that enough? In this episode, we are joined by Kerry Tracy to discuss how to have meaningful STEM lessons in short class periods and ideas for gaining more time to do STEM! false00:41:58126Making Time for STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)fullMaking Time for STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips25. Teaching Fads: Should You Have A Makerspace?Teaching TipsFri, 29 Jan 2021 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/25-teaching-fads-should-you-have-a-makerspace54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:60137756c472393225bb6d7dSHOW SUMMARY:
Makerspaces! They are popping up in schools, libraries, and beyond. Maybe you even have one in your classroom (I do!). But are makerspaces just a teaching fad or is it an effective tool for teaching STEM? Listen to our discussion about their definition, purpose, design, and more as we weigh in on this popular trend!

Would you like us to discuss other possible teaching fads? Leave us a comment below on a teaching trend you are skeptical of and we will keep this series going!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Episode 24- Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)

Claire’s Makerspace and STEM Materials preview

We Are Teachers: What is a Makerspace?

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/25—Teaching-Fads-Should-You-Have-A-Makerspace

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMDo makerspaces help us teach STEM? Makerspaces! They are popping up in schools, libraries, and beyond. Maybe you even have one in your classroom (I do!). But are makerspaces just a teaching fad or is it an effective tool for teaching STEM? Listen to our discussion about their definition, purpose, design, and more as we weigh in on this popular trend! Would you like us to discuss other possible teaching fads? Leave us a comment below on a teaching trend you are skeptical of and we will keep this series going! false00:16:25125Teaching Fads: Should You Have A Makerspace?fullTeaching Fads: Should You Have A Makerspace?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips24. Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)Teaching TipsFri, 22 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/24-craft-projects-vs-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:6008af0ff2f64a14a2954343SHOW SUMMARY:
We shared a post from Kerry Tracy of Feel Good Teaching entitled Science-Themed Crafts Are Not STEM Challenges and it got A LOT of comments on our STEM Space Facebook group! We sat down with Kerry to hash out why people are so passionate on both sides of this issue and what it all really means. Pull up a chair to our discussion and don’t forget to weigh in in the comments on our website or social media channels. The big take-away: we are all here to learn from each other and help each other grow!

Don’t forget to check out STEM Con & Beyond which is talked about in this episode! Join us in an incredible virtual conference for teachers! Get all the info here.

Links from the Show:

Science-Themed Crafts Are Not STEM Challenges

STEM Con & Beyond virtual conference

The 3 Stages of STEM

Simple STEM blog post by Kerry Tracyy

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2021/24-craft-projects-vs-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMDoes STEM revolve around just building something, or is there more to it?We shared a post from Kerry Tracy of Feel Good Teaching entitled Science-Themed Crafts Are Not STEM Challenges and it got A LOT of comments on our STEM Space Facebook group! We sat down with Kerry to hash out why people are so passionate on both sides of this issue and what it all really means. Pull up a chair to our discussion and don’t forget to weigh in in the comments on our website or social media channels. The big take-away: we are all here to learn from each other and help each other grow! Don’t forget to check out STEM Con & Beyond which is talked about in this episode! Join us in an incredible virtual conference for teachers!false00:46:36124Craft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)fullCraft Projects vs. STEM (featuring Kerry Tracy)info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips23. Mission to the Moon: Virtual STEM ProgramTeaching TipsFri, 15 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/https/wwwvivifystemcom/thestemspace/2021/23-mission-to-the-moon-virtual-stem-program54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5fffc592464c2528214daf7fSHOW SUMMARY:
With a live leaderboard, weekly raffle prizes, and career chats with NASA engineers, Vivify presents Mission to Moon, a hands-on STEM program delivered virtually for classroom or at-home learning. Your students will design robot hands, rovers, roller coasters, and more while learning about real-world STEM, meeting real STEM professionals, and connecting with schools across the world! Tune in to hear all the details and get a testimonial from Claire after going through the program with her own students. Click the links below to get more information about how your students can join in the adventure.
SPACE CLUB IS A LOW-PREP, FLEXIBLE CURRICULUM THAT INCLUDES INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS, ENGINEERING DESIGN CHALLENGES, CAREER CHATS, REAL-WORLD CONNECTIONS, AND MORE! LEARN MORE ABOUT SPACE CLUB AT COSMIC-LEAP.ORG/SPACECLUB!

Links from the Show:

Mission to Moon Program Information

Try a FREE Mission to Moon Lesson here!

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM

VIVIFY FACEBOOK

VIVIFY TWITTER

]]>Vivify STEMLaunch your students on an epic journey of STEM challengesWith a live leaderboard, weekly raffle prizes, and career chats with NASA engineers, Vivify presents Mission to Moon, a hands-on STEM program delivered virtually for classroom or at-home learning. Your students will design robot hands, rovers, roller coasters, and more while learning about real-world STEM, meeting real STEM professionals, and connecting with schools across the world! Tune in to hear all the details and get a testimonial from Claire after going through the program with her own students. Click the links below to get more information about how your students can join in the adventure. SPACE CLUB IS A LOW-PREP, FLEXIBLE CURRICULUM THAT INCLUDES INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS, ENGINEERING DESIGN CHALLENGES, CAREER CHATS, REAL-WORLD CONNECTIONS, AND MORE! LEARN MORE ABOUT SPACE CLUB AT COSMIC-LEAP.ORG/SPACECLUB!false00:24:30123Mission to the Moon: Virtual STEM ProgramfullMission to the Moon: Virtual STEM Programinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips22. Teaching Fads: Should You Teach Like a Pirate?Teaching TipsFri, 11 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/22-teaching-fads-should-you-teach-like-a-pirate54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5fd1afacb91f50015eeba20aSHOW SUMMARY:
Teaching like a pirate has become a popular teaching style since the release of the book (see link below). But what is all the hype around the enthusiasm and fanfare of this method? Tune in to this podcast episode to hear what it is all about and our thoughts on whether or not it is an effective teaching strategy that prepares students for the world of STEM.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Teach Like A Pirate

STEM Teacher clothing at Svaha

Episode 16. Everything You Know About Learning Styles is Wrong

Learning Styles podcast episodes:

—Episode 13 on Behavioral Learning Theory

—Episode 14 on Developmental Learning Theory

—Episode 15 on Constructivist Learning Theory

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/22-teaching-fads-should-you-teach-like-a-pirate

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIs enthusiasm and passion what your teaching is missing?Teaching like a pirate has become a popular teaching style since the release of the book (see link below). But what is all the hype around the enthusiasm and fanfare of this method? Tune in to this podcast episode to hear what it is all about and our thoughts on whether or not it is an effective teaching strategy that prepares students for the world of STEM. false00:11:20122Teaching Fads: Should You Teach Like a Pirate?fullTeaching Fads: Should You Teach Like a Pirate?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips21. Teaching Fads: Should You Teach STEM?Teaching TipsFri, 04 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/21-teaching-fads-should-you-teach-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5fc9e0bad7c3040d8733a605SHOW SUMMARY:
Is STEM education destroying the science classroom? In this episode, we discuss whether or not STEM is a teaching fad that does more harm than good. Fancy robots, fun design projects, and hands-on activities are always student favorites, but do our STEM programs actually reinforce science concepts, or are they just glorified craft and playtime? Listen in to find out and don’t forget to get your free copy of the Learning Theories flow chart in the links below.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Hour of Code STEM activities

Winter/ Christmas STEM activities

Episode 16. Everything You Know About Learning Styles is Wrong

Learning Styles podcast episodes:

Episode 13 on Behavioral Learning Theory

Episode 14 on Developmental Learning Theory

Episode 15 on Constructivist Learning Theory

Learning Theories Flow Chart in the STEM Space Explorer Library

Not all STEM is equal (podcast Episode 1) (blog post)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/21-teaching-fads-should-you-teach-stem

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIs STEM education killing the science classroom?Is STEM education destroying the science classroom? In this episode, we discuss whether or not STEM is a teaching fad that does more harm than good. Fancy robots, fun design projects, and hands-on activities are always student favorites, but do our STEM programs actually reinforce science concepts, or are they just glorified craft and playtime? Listen in to find out and don’t forget to get your free copy of the Learning Theories flow chart in the links below. false00:17:15121Teaching Fads: Should You Teach STEM?fullTeaching Fads: Should You Teach STEM?info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips20. Thanksgiving STEM ActivitiesFri, 13 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/20-thanksgiving-stem-activities54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5fad8b504aff1f2f85ef6e76SHOW SUMMARY:
Thanksgiving is one of our favorite times of year for gathering with friends and family, eating good food, and doing awesome STEM activities. Listen in as we share some of our favorite Thanksgiving and Turkey themed STEM activities for elementary and middle school. These activities cover basic computer programming, forces of flight, STEM careers, and circuitry.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Thankful for STEM free activity on TpT or in our free resource library

Turkey STEM activities are found on this blog post

More Thanksgiving STEM activity ideas

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/20-thanksgiving-stem-activities

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMFlying Turkeys, play-doh turkey circuits, turkey unplugged coding and more!Thanksgiving is one of our favorite times of year for gathering with friends and family, eating good food, and doing awesome STEM activities. Listen in as we share some of our favorite Thanksgiving and Turkey themed STEM activities for elementary and middle school. These activities cover basic computer programming, forces of flight, STEM careers, and circuitry. false00:12:11120Thanksgiving STEM ActivitiesfullThanksgiving STEM Activitiesinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)19. How To Motivate Your StudentsFri, 06 Nov 2020 07:03:55 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/19-how-to-motivate-your-students54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5fa4e634944ca642347fe574SHOW SUMMARY:
Motivating your students can be a struggle. How do we get them to put forth the effort and engage in your STEM lessons? We need to dig into why students lack motivation and get to the root of the problem first. It may be that they need a boost in self-efficacy, or need a way to find value in how the class relates to them personally. Tune in to this episode to join the discussion and hear ways you may be able to better motivate your students.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Behavioral Learning Theory (From episode 13)

If you don’t want your students dependent on a reward system, listen to this episode on praise in the classroom.

What is a Scientist/Engineer lesson

The Learning Cycle / 5 Es

Launching a High Altitude Weather Balloon

Learn about student sparks in this blog post.

Plants in Space - STEM Space At Home Challenge

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/19-how-to-motivate-your-students

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMGet to the root cause of why your students are not engaged.Motivating your students can be a struggle. How do we get them to put forth the effort and engage in your STEM lessons? We need to dig into why students lack motivation and get to the root of the problem first. It may be that they need a boost in self-efficacy, or need a way to find value in how the class relates to them personally. Tune in to this episode to join the discussion and hear ways you may be able to better motivate your students.false00:18:01119How To Motivate Your StudentsfullHow To Motivate Your Studentsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)18. What You Should Know About FailureFri, 30 Oct 2020 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/18-what-you-should-know-about-failure54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f9a52d80acba321a75d30b0SHOW SUMMARY:
This episode is a follow-up to episode 17 where we introduced an assignment for educators to fail at something! This allows for teachers to be able to empathize with our students so that we can better help them fail forward or learn from their failures. Listen to this episode for tips on how to address failure in your classroom, tools to equip your students for failure, and even how you can score some free supplies for your STEM lab. Perhaps you will be inspired by our attempts and success in failing this week and try to fail forward yourself! Don’t forget to check out the links below for more on failure!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Blog post: How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

Space Lander STEM Challenge

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/18-What-You-Should-Know-About-Failure

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMDo you know how important failure is? This episode is a follow-up to episode 17 where we introduced an assignment for educators to fail at something! This allows for teachers to be able to empathize with our students so that we can better help them fail forward or learn from their failures. Listen to this episode for tips on how to address failure in your classroom, tools to equip your students for failure, and even how you can score some free supplies for your STEM lab. Perhaps you will be inspired by our attempts and success in failing this week and try to fail forward yourself! Don’t forget to check out the links below for more on failure!false00:30:24118What You Should Know About FailurefullWhat You Should Know About Failureinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)17. We All Need a Lesson in FailureFri, 23 Oct 2020 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/17-we-all-need-a-lesson-in-failure54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f922e984efd0e5a4f5fc831SHOW SUMMARY:
When was the last time you truly experienced failure? As educators, we need a refresher on what failure feels like to put us back into the mindset of what it is like to be a novice at something. This perspective is how many of our students are walking into our classrooms. We can become more effective at teaching them if we are able to relate to the position they are in with our content.

Tune into this episode to hear more about this and get in on an assignment Claire is trying this week! Join us in the failure challenge and let us know your results by commenting below, on social media, or by sending us an email at info@vivifystem.com. One educator’s solution to the assignment is shown in the post on our website. You’ll have to listen to hear what it is all about!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Blog post on the importance of failure

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/17-we-all-need-a-lesson-in-failure

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMBridging the gap between novices and experts in the classroomWhen was the last time you truly experienced failure? As educators, we need a refresher on what failure feels like to put us back into the mindset of what it is like to be a novice at something. This perspective is how many of our students are walking into our classrooms. We can become more effective at teaching them if we are able to relate to the position they are in with our content. Tune into this episode to hear more about this and get in on an assignment Claire is trying this week! Join us in the failure challenge and let us know your results by commenting below, on social media, or by sending us an email at info@vivifystem.com. false00:19:54117We All Need a Lesson in FailurefullWe All Need a Lesson in Failureinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)16. Everything You Know About Learning Styles Is WrongFri, 16 Oct 2020 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/16-everything-you-know-about-learning-styles-is-wrong54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f8740ec6a857840a6c752d5SHOW SUMMARY:
Do you meet all of your students’ needs by teaching to each learning style? Maybe you make sure there is an audio recording of your content for the auditory learners or provide plenty of pictures for your visual students. Perhaps you even add some active components for those kinesthetic learners. What if I told you that learning styles are a lie? Turns out, there is no evidence that learning styles are a real thing. Tune in to this episode to hear the “why” and find out how to effectively teach your students without all the learning style fuss.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

TedX Talk: Learning styles & the importance of critical self-reflection by Tesia Marshik

“The Myth of Catering to Learning Styles” By Joanne K. Olson (PDF)

Onion Satire Article: “Parents Of Nasal Learners Demand Odor-Based Curriculum” 

The Dunn and Dunn (false) method

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/16-everything-you-know-about-learning-styles-is-wrong

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMDebunking the myth of learning styles helps your studentsDo you meet all of your students’ needs by teaching to each learning style? Maybe you make sure there is an audio recording of your content for the auditory learners or provide plenty of pictures for your visual students. Perhaps you even add some active components for those kinesthetic learners. What if I told you that learning styles are a lie? Turns out, there is no evidence that learning styles are a real thing. Tune in to this episode to hear the “why” and find out how to effectively teach your students without all the learning style fuss. false00:16:29116Everything You Know About Learning Styles Is WrongfullEverything You Know About Learning Styles Is Wronginfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)15. How to Address Students' MisconceptionsFri, 09 Oct 2020 15:53:22 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/15-how-to-address-students-misconceptions54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f7fd2f5a36da512fceb7097SHOW SUMMARY:
Do you shy away from addressing students’ misconceptions? According to the constructivist theory of learning, kids make their own knowledge and ideas about how the world works based on their experiences. What if those ideas are wrong? As educators, we need an approach to correcting these misconceptions that first helps students become aware and commit to what they believe. Listen to this episode for practical methods and examples in how you can help your students with their misconceptions.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Ultraviolet Light Shelter Challenge blog post

The STEM Space Episode 14 on developmental learning theory

Space Club - FREE for all educators!

The STEM Space Episode 11 - 3 Ways to Effectively Praise Your Students

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES:https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/15-how-to-address-students-misconceptions

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMBring awareness to kids' incorrect ideas in STEM educationDo you shy away from addressing students’ misconceptions? According to the constructivist theory of learning, kids make their own knowledge and ideas about how the world works based on their experiences. What if those ideas are wrong? As educators, we need an approach to correcting these misconceptions that first helps students become aware and commit to what they believe. Listen to this episode for practical methods and examples in how you can help your students with their misconceptions. false00:23:39115How to Address Students' MisconceptionsfullHow to Address Students' Misconceptionsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)14. When Kids Are Ready to Learn and How to Teach ThemFri, 02 Oct 2020 22:41:48 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/14-when-kids-are-ready-to-learn-and-how-to-teach-them54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f7799cdc4b1272298bbdf87SHOW SUMMARY:
Do your students struggle with design challenges? Maybe they aren’t developmentally ready for that level of knowledge application. Research shows that abstract concepts often cannot be grasped by children under a certain age (this is the Developmental Learning Theory). We need to make sure our teaching is appropriate for a student’s age and know how to set them up for success in learning these concepts when they are ready. Listen to this episode to learn more!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Straw Rockets - K-3 or 4-10

Catapults

Behavioral Learning Theory (from episode 13)

Blooms Taxonomy pyramid

The Learning Cycle

5E Model

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/14-when-kids-are-ready-to-learn-and-how-to-teach-them

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMThe Developmental Learning Theory can help us know what is too advanced for our studentsDo your students struggle with design challenges? Maybe they aren’t developmentally ready for that level of knowledge application. Research shows that abstract concepts often cannot be grasped by children under a certain age (this is the Developmental Learning Theory). We need to make sure our teaching is appropriate for a student’s age and know how to set them up for success in learning these concepts when they are ready. Listen to this episode to learn more!false00:17:29114When Kids Are Ready to Learn and How to Teach ThemfullWhen Kids Are Ready to Learn and How to Teach Theminfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)13. How to Effectively Teach Skills to StudentsFri, 25 Sep 2020 18:23:05 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/13-how-to-effectively-teach-skills-to-students54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f6e275b79bb934029f05a80SHOW SUMMARY:
In this episode, we are diving into the first in our series on learning theories. Learn how you can be more aware of how to effectively teach skills to your students with the Behavioral Learning Theory. In applying Behavioral Learning Theory, we realize the incredible value of being present with our students especially in a virtual or distance learning environment. This theory has three steps:

Model - show students how to do something

Practice - students should independently try to accomplish a task

Feedback - teachers need to be able to help students through struggles.

This may seem like an obvious approach, but are you implementing it in your classroom? Listen in to hear ways that educators can help support student learning best.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

The 3 Stages of STEM

How should you walk students through the engineering design process? Watch this example!

The Engineering Design Process: How to Engage Little Kids in Engineering Activities

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/13-how-to-effectively-teach-skills-to-students

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMIn this episode, we are diving into the first in our series on learning theories. Learn how you can be more aware of how to effectively teach skills to your students with the Behavioral Learning Theory.In this episode, Natasha provides insight on involving your students in stage 3 STEM which is STEM Competitions. What STEM competitions are available? What is your role as an educator and sponsor? What should you expect in a STEM competition? Get ready to take your students to the next level in their STEM education! In this episode, we are diving into the first in our series on learning theories. Learn how you can be more aware of how to effectively teach skills to your students with the Behavioral Learning Theory. In applying Behavioral Learning Theory, we realize the incredible value of being present with our students especially in a virtual or distance learning environment. This theory has three steps: Model - show students how to do something Practice - students should independently try to accomplish a task Feedback - teachers need to be able to help students through struggles. This may seem like an obvious approach, but are you implementing it in your classroom? Listen in to hear ways that educators can help support student learning best. Have questions about preparing your students for a STEM competition? Reach out to us at info@vivifystem.com. false00:11:58113How to Effectively Teach Skills to StudentsfullHow to Effectively Teach Skills to Studentsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)12. Stage 3 STEM: STEM Competitions Fri, 11 Sep 2020 16:08:50 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/12-stage-3-stem-stem-competitions54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f5b84d807dbd242582bf632SHOW SUMMARY:
In this episode, Natasha provides insight on involving your students in stage 3 STEM which is STEM Competitions. What STEM competitions are available? What is your role as an educator and sponsor? What should you expect in a STEM competition? Get ready to take your students to the next level in their STEM education!

There are many virtual nation-wide STEM competitions available as well as some for your local area. Listen in for a few ideas on how to run your own competition or check out the links below to join an established competition. If you are a STEM teacher and sponsor of a STEM competition team, your role is to provide the framework for STEM competitions, define roles for the teams and help with team dynamics that are developed in the first stage of the 3 Stages of STEM. A sponsor should not be playing an active role in solving the problem in the competition! Build up their STEM skills with one of the Launchpad Curricula in the links below.

Have questions about preparing your students for a STEM competition? Reach out to us at info@vivifystem.com.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

The 3 Stages of STEM

SA Smart Challenge

NASA Space STEM Challenges

NASA STEM Engagement challenges and resources

3M DiscoverE Young Scientist Challenge

Future City Competition

Launchpad Curriculum:

—Mission to the Moon- For Elementary School

—Mission to the Moon- For Middle School (Free when subscribed to our free newsletter and given access to our growing Free Resource Library!)

—Mission to Mars- For Elementary School

—Mission to Mars- For Middle School

First LEGO League (FLL)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/12-stage-3-stem-stem-competitions

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMTake your students to the next level in their STEM education.In this episode, Natasha provides insight on involving your students in stage 3 STEM which is STEM Competitions. What STEM competitions are available? What is your role as an educator and sponsor? What should you expect in a STEM competition? Get ready to take your students to the next level in their STEM education! There are many virtual nation-wide STEM competitions available as well as some for your local area. Listen in for a few ideas on how to run your own competition or check out the links below to join an established competition. If you are a STEM teacher and sponsor of a STEM competition team, your role is to provide the framework for STEM competitions, define roles for the teams and help with team dynamics that are developed in the first stage of the 3 Stages of STEM. A sponsor should not be playing an active role in solving the problem in the competition! Build up their STEM skills with one of the Launchpad Curricula in the links below. Have questions about preparing your students for a STEM competition? Reach out to us at info@vivifystem.com. false00:18:39112Stage 3 STEM: STEM CompetitionsfullStage 3 STEM: STEM Competitionsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)11. 3 Ways to Effectively Praise Your StudentsFri, 04 Sep 2020 06:15:43 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/11-3-ways-to-effectively-praise-your-students54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f51c654f8d6a26d1487a872Show Summary:

How should we praise our students and should we praise them at all? There are a lot of similarities between how we should parent and how we should teach kids when it comes to praising effort and not outcomes. Listen in to learn 3 specific ways that you can use praise to protect your classroom dynamic and promote growth in positive habits for your kids.

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/11-3-ways-to-effectively-praise-your-students

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMPraise can be destructive in the classroomHow should we praise our students and should we praise them at all? There are a lot of similarities between how we should parent and how we should teach kids when it comes to praising effort and not outcomes. Listen in to learn 3 specific ways that you can use praise to protect your classroom dynamic and promote growth in positive habits for your kids.false00:16:281113 Ways to Effectively Praise your Studentsfull3 Ways to Effectively Praise your Studentsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)10. Tips For Your STEM ProgramFri, 28 Aug 2020 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/10-tips-for-your-stem-program54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f470f15f6663936f81244c5Show Summary:

Maybe you have stocked up on exciting activities for your STEM classroom or program, but do you know how to manage the supplies, the students, and your class time? Aspen Meineke is back this week sharing her tips from running her STEM programs. Listen in to get inspired by the ways she has found to make a STEM program work well.

Links From The Show:

STEM Family Night

How To Start an Afterschool STEM Club

Pitsco Education Family STEM Night Bundle (takes out all the guesswork!)

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/10-tips-for-your-stem-program

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMHow to manage your STEM classroomMaybe you have stocked up on exciting activities for your STEM classroom or program, but do you know how to manage the supplies, the students, and your class time? Aspen Meineke is back this week sharing her tips from running her STEM programs. Listen in to get inspired by the ways she has found to make a STEM program work well. false00:15:21110Tips For Your STEM ProgramfullTips For Your STEM Programinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)9. STEM with Sphero RoboticsFri, 21 Aug 2020 23:16:16 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/9-stem-with-sphero-robotics54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f404e2f6c65f16b60de6d7cShow Summary:

Have you tried Sphero robots? We love them and we tell you why in this podcast episode. Hear from Sphero Hero brand ambassador Aspen Meineke as she shares her tips and activity ideas to use Sphero robots in your classroom or program. Sphero robots are perfect for all ages and can be used safely with social distancing within your classroom. Tune in to learn more.

Links From The Show:

Sphero Hero program information and application

Sphero blog posts from Aspen and Vivify:

Basics of Sphero Robotics + 3 Awesome Sphero STEM Activities

Bolt: Is Sphero's Latest Robot Worth the Hype?

5 Tips for STEM Learning with Sphero Robotics including Alien Pop and Chariot races

STEM Family Nights with the Sphero robotics painting art activity

Sphero at-home learning resources

Sphero Social Distancing activity resources

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/9-stem-with-sphero-robotics

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMTips and activities for using Sphero robotsHave you tried Sphero robots? We love them and we tell you why in this podcast episode. Hear from Sphero Hero brand ambassador Aspen Meineke as she shares her tips and activity ideas to use Sphero robots in your classroom or program. Sphero robots are perfect for all ages and can be used safely with social distancing within your classroom. Tune in to learn more. false00:14:5219STEM with Sphero RoboticsfullSTEM with Sphero Roboticsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)8. STEM vs. STEAM+Teaching TipsFri, 14 Aug 2020 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/8-stem-vs-steam54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f34937a01cfd1458992ca77Show Summary:

What’s in a name? Well, it depends on who you ask, but we feel that STEM does not need the addition of any other letters if done correctly. Tune in to this episode to hear about why we believe the standard STEM acronym (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is important and complete. Have a different opinion, or does your school use STEAM, STREAM, or another version? Let us know by commenting on our website or on our social media channels.

Links From The Show:

United Nations list of global issues

STEM Family Nights and the Sphero robotics painting art activity

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/8-stem-vs-steam

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMThe STEM acronym is important and complete. No extra letters needed. Do you agree?What’s in a name? Well, it depends on who you ask, but we feel that STEM does not need the addition of any other letters if done correctly. Tune in to this episode to hear about why we believe the standard STEM acronym (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is important and complete. Have a different opinion, or does your school use STEAM, STREAM, or another version? Let us know by commenting below or on our social media channels. false00:10:0318STEM vs. STEAM+fullSTEM vs. STEAM+info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips7. How to Ask QuestionsTeaching TipsFri, 07 Aug 2020 11:00:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7-how-to-ask-questions54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f202164a9c3573cfe6e4025Show Summary:

Do you ask open-ended questions with your students? In this episode, Natasha provides insight into what she is learning while getting her Masters in Science Education. Learn about strategies in helping your students developing a deeper understanding of your lessons and fostering more student participation by asking better questions and increasing wait time.

Links From The Show:

Space Lander STEM Challenge

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7-how-to-ask-questions

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMOpen the floor for thoughtful answers from your studentsDo you ask open-ended questions with your students? In this episode, Natasha provides insight into what she is learning while getting her Masters in Science Education. Learn about strategies in helping your students developing a deeper understanding of your lessons and fostering more student participation by asking better questions and increasing wait time.false00:16:1817How To Ask QuestionsfullHow To Ask Questionsinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips6. Our Favorite Summer PD TakeawaysFri, 31 Jul 2020 06:03:08 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/6-our-favorite-summer-pd-takeaways54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f2022940dde762ed9ae873cShow Summary:

Tune in as we discuss our biggest takeaways from the 3 virtual conferences we participated in this summer for teacher professional development. From Elementary STEM Con to the Champions for Science Middle School Conference, and ending with the Whole Teacher EclecticCon, we have truly enjoyed the flexibility and accessibility of the virtual conference platform. We have learned so much and are sharing it all, so listen in for all the details! Interested in getting online or virtual trainings from us? Check out the links below.

Links From The Show:

Elementary STEM Club

Elementary STEM Con (get on the waiting list for next year)

Vivify teacher trainings

(Teach Outside the Box) Brooke Brown’s Top 10 Read Alouds for Elementary STEM

Fold N Fly paper airplane design

Green Screens by Anita Goodwin from Goodwinovate

Podcasting in the classroom by Trina Deboree

Interactive Notebooks by Nitty Gritty Science

Paper Dissections by Getting Nerdy with Mel & Gerdy

Ms. Mallory Adventures recommended apps:

Meet the Insects

Loss of Night App

Project Noah

Merlin Bird ID App

NASA Visual Explorer

Ty Cook from Cook in the Classroom recommended

Merge Edu paper merge cube

Screencastify

Deck.Toys

Dr. Blake on Growth Mindset

Clever is a place to host all distance learning platforms

Skype A Scientist

MosaMack - free animated science mysteries

Science Journal for Kids - connect science lessons to real-world science projects

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/6-our-favorite-summer-pd-takeaways

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMWe are sharing the highlights from the conferences we enjoyed this summer. Tune in as we discuss our biggest takeaways from the 3 virtual conferences we participated in this summer for teacher professional development. From Elementary STEM Con to the Champions for Science Middle School Conference, and ending with the Whole Teacher EclecticCon, we have truly enjoyed the flexibility and accessibility of the virtual conference platform. We have learned so much and are sharing it all, so listen in for all the details! Interested in getting online or virtual trainings from us? Check out the links below.false00:25:4916Our Favorite Summer PD TakeawaysfullOur Favorite Summer PD Takeawaysinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)5. STEM Tools for your ClassroomFri, 24 Jul 2020 05:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/24/5-stem-tools-for-your-classroom54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f18b8f733a63c5b38f4ff01Show Summary:

Get your STEM lab ready for back to school by stocking up on the basics or acquire some new gems for your students! From recyclables like toilet paper tubes to construction supplies like Keva Planks or 3D printers, we share all of our favorite tools in this episode. Listen to gain ideas on what you should invest in as well as free resources and strategies for which robots you should use in your classroom.

Links From The Show:

Blog posts with links to all the tools mentioned and more:

10 Must Have STEM Tools

Must Haves for a STEM Lab

Top 10 Back to School STEM Tools

Pitsco Straw Rocket Launcher

Merge Cube

Quiver

Engineering Design Process bulletin board

Solar System Rug

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/24/5-stem-tools-for-your-classroom

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMStock your STEM Lab with construction and technology tools.Get your STEM lab ready for back to school by stocking up on the basics or acquire some new gems for your students! From recyclables like toilet paper tubes to construction supplies like Keva Planks or 3D printers, we share all of our favorite tools in this episode. Listen to gain ideas on what you should invest in as well as free resources and strategies for which robots you should use in your classroom.false00:20:1015STEM Tools for your ClassroomfullSTEM Tools for your Classroominfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)4. Why You Should Teach SpaceFri, 17 Jul 2020 08:30:00 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/17/4-why-you-should-teach-space54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f0ef79e6920cc2e7940f158Show Summary:

Space exploration can be an effective lens to teach and inspire kids in STEM education. From connecting to the exciting space missions in current events, to showing how your students could contribute to advancing the human race, space is something that everyone can relate to. Share these events and connect your science concepts and engineering design challenges to space exploration with your students to set the stage for true engagement and to give them a glimpse of the heights that STEM education can take them.

Not sure how to teach your subject matter or standards through the lens of space? We are challenging you to reach out to us with a topic you teach and we will help you connect it to space exploration! Email us at info@vivifystem.com or connect with us on social media through direct message or even use #connectmetospace on a post. We think everything can be taught with a space connection and we’d love to show you how!

Links From The Show:

NASA STEM on Station demonstrations on the International Space Station

NASA teacher resources

Space Docking icebreaker activity

Straw Rockets challenge (or click here for TpT)

Lunar Crater Challenge (or click here for TpT)

Space Lander Challenge

Lunar Colony Project (or click here for TpT)

Tomatosphere

EarthKam

Free Sphero Maze activity

Space STEM Starter Challenges MEGA Bundle

Blog posts about space activities:

Top 10 STEM Space Activities

Lunar STEM Activities for the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo Moon Landing

Teaching Space Inspires Youth

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/17/4-why-you-should-teach-space

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMTeaching space inspires studentsSpace exploration can be an effective lens to teach and inspire kids in STEM education.false00:20:0614Why You Should Teach SpacefullWhy You Should Teach Spaceinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)3. Building Relationships with Distance Learning IcebreakersFri, 10 Jul 2020 05:06:24 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/9/3-building-relationships-with-distance-learning-icebreakers54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5f07d39e0a8a1b62c4a8a1a3Show summary:

In this episode, we discuss the topic of distance learning and how you can use icebreakers, games, and online tools to engage and build relationships with your students. Connecting with your students is vital in keeping them focused in your class and building classroom culture whether you are in person or conducting classes in a distance learning environment. In distance learning, the ability to go live with your students through tools like Zoom sets the stage for more interaction and building those relationships, but there are still ways to engage and facilitate high levels of involvement when unable to connect with your students live or in-person. Listen to the episode for details on these strategies and checkout the links from the show below.

Links from the show:

12 Ways to Boost Social-Emotional Learning with STEM blog post

50 Distance Learning Icebreakers & Games blog post

The STEM Space facebook group for educators

One Tired Teacher: A Podcast for Teachers by Trina Deboree

STEM Space At Home Videos

STEM Space At Home: Virus Protection Challenge with Texas Biomedical Research Institute

Intro to Coding: Distance Learning Activity Building a Robot Tool

Back to School Bundle: 50 Icebreaker Activities

Intro to STEM Bundle: 45 Icebreaker & Teamwork Activities

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/9/3-building-relationships-with-distance-learning-icebreakers

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMGames and other ways you can connect with your students this fallPrepare for the fall with strategies to build relationships and foster engagement with your in-person or distance learning lessons with icebreaker activities, games, and tools in this episode.false00:18:5613Building Relationships with Distance Learning IcebreakersfullBuilding Relationships with Distance Learning Icebreakersinfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)2. STEM Careers in your ClassroomSat, 04 Jul 2020 02:13:37 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/3/2-stem-careers-in-your-classroom54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5efe9daf47a3f57348f29ee2In this episode, we discuss ways you can implement STEM careers in your classroom by connecting them to student sparks— your students’ passions! STEM careers should be a part of every STEM lesson as you connect what your students are learning to the careers that use those same skills or that relate to the topics discussed. All of our STEM lessons incorporate STEM careers and one of our favorite ways to introduce students to these professions is through STEM Career Bingo. Find resources like this that are discussed in the podcast episode below.

Links from the show:

Incorporating STEM Careers using sparks

STEM Careers Bingo

Launchpad Mars Curriculum for grades 6-8

Science Buddies

STEM Jobs

Start Engineering

Use Nepris to connect virtually with STEM professionals - Update 1/1/2025: Nepris is now Pathful Connect and part of the Pathful College & Career Readiness System.

Find our free Interview Questions to ask a STEM Professional in our Free Resource Library and subscribe to our newsletter here.

THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/7/3/2-stem-careers-in-your-classroom

THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thestemspace/?source_id=1447700748805688

VIVIFY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vivifystem

VIVIFY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vivifystem

]]>Vivify STEMResources to introduce your students to STEM careersImplement STEM careers in your classroom by connecting them to student sparks. STEM careers should be a part of every STEM lesson.false00:15:5912STEM Careers in your ClassroomfullSTEM Careers in your Classroominfo@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)1. The 3 Stages of STEMTeaching TipsClassroom ResourcesSun, 28 Jun 2020 20:30:27 +0000https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/6/27/1-the-3-stages-of-stem54807be6e4b053bc20c8b2a0:5d0e24fa247fa10001e1fb3a:5ef7d1afb7918e0088f2c1dfIn this episode, we take you on a journey through how we use the 3 stages of STEM. Learn how to effectively build communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills with Stage 1 STEM activities, then guide students through the engineering design process with Stage 2 challenges, and then finally apply all of those skills in a more long-term STEM project or design competition. Not all STEM activities have the same value in a STEM program. Following the 3 Stages of STEM can set your students up for success in STEM pathways.

Links from the show:

Podcast blog post: https://www.vivifystem.com/thestemspace/2020/6/27/1-the-3-stages-of-stem

Find out more about the 3 Stages of STEM in our blog post here.

Stage 1 Tower Challenges (and other icebreaker ideas)

Stage 2 example activity: Straw Rockets (K-3 or 4-10)

Stage 3 example activity: Launch a Weather Balloon

Stage 3 example activity: Design a Mars Colony

Incorporating STEM Careers

]]>Vivify STEMNot all STEM is equalBuild your STEM program by progressively building STEM skills. false00:14:0611The 3 Stages of STEM fullThe 3 Stages of STEM info@vivifystem.com (Vivify STEM)Teaching Tips, Classroom Resources