Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects are an essential part of a child’s education. When incorporating STEM into classroom instruction, educators are tasked with creating an environment for students to effectively improve their STEM literacy. This is done by designing a space that allows students to exercise their creativity and collaboration skills. In this article, you will learn about how to create environments for students that foster innovation and collaboration.
The Importance of STEM Learning Spaces
Well-designed learning spaces play a crucial role in enhancing students’ academic performance, motivation, and collaboration – especially in STEM subjects. A well-designed learning space provides an environment that promotes active engagement, critical thinking, and hands-on learning experiences. With STEM subjects, students often require practical and experiential learning opportunities. Educators can help improve student performance by creating an environment that allows students to engage deeply with their curriculum in an inclusive environment. The space created for student learning is an important aspect of STEM curriculum planning; the environment is arguably as important as the curriculum plan.
Key Elements of Effective STEM Learning Spaces
STEM subjects require a very different environment compared to other classroom subjects. Creating an effective STEM learning space requires planning by educators and school administrators. For teachers who are new to the workforce or STEM learning, this can be a difficult task. Below are key elements to consider when creating an effective STEM learning environment.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: In a STEM learning environment, flexibility and adaptability are essential. STEM subjects often include hands-on activities, experiments, and projects. The learning space should be designed to accommodate different setups and configurations. Movable equipment allows students to easily reconfigure the space based on their specific needs. This flexibility promotes active learning and encourages students to collaborate, experiment, and explore ideas freely.
- Interactive Tools and Technology: Incorporating interactive tools and technology into the learning space can greatly enhance students’ engagement and understanding of STEM concepts. This also prepares students for the future workforce where the use of new, innovative technology is essential to success.
- Space for Collaboration and Individual Thinking: Effective STEM learning spaces should provide areas for both collaboration and individual thinking. Open collaborative areas allow working together in groups, fostering communication, teamwork, and peer learning. Dedicated areas for individual thinking, such as quiet corners or individual workstations, provide students with a space for reflection, concentration, and independent exploration. Balancing collaborative and individual spaces ensures students work in the space most effective for them, while learning to work in new environments that may not come as naturally to them.
- Visibility and Accessibility of Learning Resources: STEM learning spaces should be designed with visibility and accessibility of learning resources in mind. This includes proper organization and storage of materials, equipment, and resources to facilitate easy access for students. Clear labeling, storage bins, and well-organized shelves make it easier for students to find the tools and resources they need for their projects and experiments. By creating this simple, organized space, students can lead their lessons and take control of their education.
- Hands-On and Maker Spaces: Creating spaces where students can interact with the curriculum in a STEM learning environment is crucial for promoting hands-on learning and problem-solving skills. These spaces should include all necessary materials for students to participate in hands-on STEM activities. Having a designated area for hands-on interaction with the curriculum concepts allows students to exercise their ability to connect what they are learning to real-world situations. This skill improves student comprehension and retention of learning concepts, which helps them in future classes and on standardized tests.
Promoting Collaboration and Innovation
A successful STEM learning space will promote STEM literacy and help students exercise their soft skills. When teaching STEM concepts, it is important students are collaborating and learning how to think innovatively. Below are tips on how to create a STEM learning space that promotes collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving skills.
- Organize Spaces to Facilitate Group Work and Communication: Creating a STEM learning space that supports collaboration requires careful organization. The layout should allow for easy movement and interaction among students, promoting group work and effective communication. Clustered desks or tables can be arranged to facilitate face-to-face interaction and teamwork. Incorporating comfortable seating options and open spaces encourages students to gather and engage in discussions, fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
- Include Writable Surfaces for Brainstorming and Ideation: Writable surfaces, such as whiteboards or chalkboards, are invaluable tools for promoting collaboration and innovation in a STEM learning space. These surfaces provide a canvas for students to brainstorm, visualize their ideas, and share concepts with their peers. By allowing students to sketch diagrams, write equations, or draw out problem-solving strategies, writable surfaces encourage active participation and help students articulate their thoughts. This visual approach enhances understanding, encourages critical thinking, and nurtures creativity within the STEM learning environment.
- Designing Spaces That Encourage Exploration and Experimentation: A well-designed STEM learning space should inspire curiosity and encourage hands-on exploration. Incorporating designated areas for experimentation and practical activities enables students to engage in authentic learning experiences. These spaces can include laboratory stations, maker spaces, or even outdoor areas for fieldwork. By providing access to appropriate equipment, materials, and tools, students can conduct experiments, build prototypes, and tangibly explore STEM concepts. This promotes a sense of discovery and empowers students to take ownership of their learning through active experimentation.
- Providing Access to Diverse Resources and Materials: A rich array of resources and materials is crucial for a successful STEM learning space. Students should have access to a wide range of reference books, textbooks, scientific journals, and online resources. Providing hands-on materials, such as models, manipulatives, and specialized equipment, supports students’ understanding and application of STEM concepts. Accessible storage systems, labeled containers, and well-organized shelves help students easily locate and retrieve the resources they need, fostering independence and efficiency in their learning process.
How The STEM Sports Curriculum Aligns with Effective Learning Spaces
STEM Sports® is a K-8 education company that provides turnkey STEM curricula that uses sports as a facilitator. The STEM Sports® curriculum creates an inclusive and hands-on environment that promotes connecting STEM concepts to the real world, which shows students the importance of understanding what they are learning. Because of the collaborative, hands-on nature of the curriculum, the STEM Sports® curriculum benefits educators who are looking to create a STEM learning space for their students. The curriculum connects to Common Core State Standards (CCSS), Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and K-12 Physical Education Standards – allowing it to align perfectly with the core classroom curriculum. For further information on the current curricula offerings of STEM Sports®, visit our website.
