High-Quality STEM Instruction

High-quality STEM instruction includes the following key aspects:

• Problem-driven lessons 
  Effective lessons focus on real-world, relatable problems to which students can productively work to propose solutions.
• Hands-on instruction 
  High-quality STEM instruction requires active and engaged students. Students should be the main drivers of the learning process, and should be proposing the ideas, as well as generating and testing solutions.
• Multiple correct approaches/solutions 
  High-quality STEM teaching should allow for multiple approaches to a problem as well as creative, out-of-the-box solutions. Mistakes and failed attempts along the way should be considered opportunities for deeper learning.
• Engineering-design thinking 
  In solving STEM problems, students should be expected to utilize engineering-design thinking. In this kind of thinking, students identify the problem at hand, research potential solutions, build prototypes, test, redesign, test again, and iterate further as needed, all toward building a functional solution.
• Challenging mathematics and science 
  At the base of STEM problems are the mathematics and science skills that students are learning in school and must apply in pursuit of solutions. The mathematics and science being utilized should connect to and extend current coursework, helping students to see the connections between subject areas.
• Collaboration
  Big challenges are rarely solved by individuals. High-quality STEM instruction also involves teaching students to work as a productive part of a collaborative team.
• Critical thinking 
  Effective STEM lessons require students to analyze information, evaluate designs, reflect on their thinking, synthesize new ideas, and propose creative solutions. All of these skills are vital to building students into independent critical thinkers.

What is STEM?
How do I add STEM to my classroom?
Where can I find STEM resources?