App Design for Social Good: Empowering Students to Solve Real-World Problems through Computer Science
In today’s digital age, computer science is no longer just about writing code—it’s about using technology as a tool to solve real-world problems. As an educator in a Title 1 school, I have had the privilege of teaching computer science and app design to students from underserved backgrounds, and it has been transformative for both […]
Differentiation in STEM: Teaching Chemistry and Computer Science to Diverse Learners
As a STEM educator working in Title 1 schools, I’ve had the privilege—and the challenge—of teaching diverse groups of students. Many of them have special needs, and a significant number are English Language Learners (ELL). In these classrooms, the “one-size-fits-all” approach simply does not work. Instead, differentiation becomes not just a teaching strategy, but a […]
Creating Inclusive Classrooms in Title 1 Schools: Supporting Special Needs and ELL Students in STEM
Teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in Title 1 schools—schools where a significant percentage of students come from low-income families—presents unique challenges. As an educator working in these environments, I’ve learned that inclusivity is crucial, especially when teaching subjects like chemistry and computer science to students with special needs and English Language Learners (ELL). […]
How to Use Assessment and Feedback to Enhance Inquiry-Based Learning
In the realm of education, assessment and feedback play crucial roles in guiding student learning and development. When it comes to inquiry-based learning, where students actively explore and investigate, these elements become even more essential. Having spent considerable time designing assessments and providing feedback in my own classroom, I’ve come to appreciate how these practices […]
Creating Inquiry-Based Learning Lesson Plans: A Personal Approach
As an educator dedicated to fostering curiosity and critical thinking, I’ve found that inquiry-based learning is one of the most effective approaches to engage students and deepen their understanding. This method shifts the focus from traditional lecture-based instruction to a more dynamic and student-centered exploration. Here, I’ll share my personal approach to creating inquiry-based lesson […]
Integrating Mathematical Models in High School Biology: The Case of the Cerebellum
Integrating mathematical models into high school biology can revolutionize how students understand complex biological processes. One compelling example is the cerebellum, a part of the brain that plays a crucial role in motor control and coordination. By using mathematical models to study the cerebellum, educators can provide students with a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of […]
How Art Enhances Learning in STEM Subjects
Art plays a critical role in enhancing a student’s ability to learn and excel in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. One of the main ways art contributes to STEM education is through the development of strong visualization skills. In subjects like math and engineering, being able to picture how components fit together or […]
Challenges of Integrating Arts into STEM Classes
Integrating arts into STEM education has shown to enrich students’ learning experiences by fostering creativity alongside analytical skills. However, incorporating arts into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics classes isn’t without its challenges. Teachers face several hurdles that can make this integration a tricky process. Here, we explore some of these challenges and discuss ways schools […]