TDOE and TSIN Partner to Release STE(A)M Resource Hub for At-Home Learning
The Tennessee Department of Education and the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN) today released a STE(A)M Resource Hub
for educators and families to use with students during COVID-related school closures.
The STE(A)M Resource Hub includes three weekly challenges focused around design thinking, STEM habit development, and career exploration that can all be done in the home. The challenges are ideal for students grades 3-12, but younger students can also participate with parental assistance. The STE(A)M Resource Hub
also includes a portal for parents or educators to ask questions and receive additional support.
Each challenge comes with a step-by-step directions for the activity, as well as additional resources to continue exploring the topic. Families and educators are encouraged to use the corresponding hashtags and #LearningInPlaceTN to share their work on social media.
#MakerMondayTN
will focus on the use of design thinking. Students will engage in design challenges using common objects found in their homes to solve a problem facing our world.
#WonderWednesdayTN
will focus on exploring STEM habits of mind through resources and activities that promote critical thinking. Examples of activities include researching and responding to essay prompts, examining data and drawing conclusions, or designing an experiment to answer a question
#FutureFridayTN
will provide students with virtual resources to explore STEM careers, with specific learning objectives such as applying to be a NASA astronaut or developing a student-friendly resume. Students will take virtual tours of STEM workplaces, or watch video interviews with Tennesseans with interesting STEM careers
“Our school buildings may be closed, but the STE(A)M Resource Hub is another great example that learning can and will continue,” said Tennessee Commissioner of Education, Penny Schwinn. “I am thrilled the Department is partnering with TSIN to provide these resources to help students keep learning, dreaming, and exploring during this time. Again and again, Tennesseans are proving we will come together to give our kids opportunities—despite challenging circumstances.”
“The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network is committed to continuing the important work of our STEM programs and partnerships, especially during this unique and challenging time. This crisis further highlights the critical nature of STEM education,” said Brandi Stroecker, Director of the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network. “Guiding students to be empathic listeners, inquisitive questioners, and innovative problem solvers prepares them to solve the pressing issues of tomorrow and to serve as the leaders of their generation. We are excited to partner with the Tennessee Department of Education to provide families with strong online STE(A)M resources to help children continue to experience new learning at home while promoting the importance of failing forward and developing a growth mindset.”
Parents, educators, and students are encouraged to check out the corresponding STEAM activity
every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the school closures due to COVID-19.
