Work-Based Learning and Computer Science Concepts Enhance STEM Learning

STEM activities at Elementary Family STEM Night became even more meaningful when students explored careers - many that were infused with computer science concepts. 

 

Students were able to identify the unique physical components of computing systems used by graphic designers in t-shirt printing. They saw how this technology has changed dramatically over the years which makes customized shirts readily available for many organizations and occasions.

Each student was able to draw a unique design which was scanned and transferred to a digital image and then to the output device-- a digital cutting tool. They were able to see how their customized shirt was created thanks to staff from Kalon Thread.

 

Andy Bartlett from Ledges State Park demonstrated the work of a conservationist. He shared animal skulls and pelts to provide a hands on experience recognizing different species of animals. Students also tried to identify animals by their footprints in the snow. 

Abby Brown from Iowa PBS shared about the job of a tv host. Students got to envision themselves on a tv set using green screen technology.  

They were also challenged to try reading from a teleprompter to see how Abby delivers her lines while taping the Iowa PBS show Wander and Wonder or Kids Clubhouse.

Many thanks to our special guests who generously shared their time to partner with us! 

 

Area Business Partners Join in STEM Education

Boone students got to explore jobs of partners from many area businesses at our recent Elementary Family STEM night. 

They learned about being an electrician. Staff from Kline Electric helped students build problem solving skills as they put basic circuits together. 

They shared about their job and brought photos from job sites to provide students with a virtual field trip.

Amy Cosentino from McFarland Clinic shared about her job as a radiology technician. Students got to examine x-rays and learned how to recognize various parts of the body from the x-ray image.

Then students were challenged to think like bio-medical engineers and design a splint that could immobilize a part of the body. 

Students practiced staying within a budget as well as extending their math skills at the banking station. They used a requisition sheet to "purchase" materials for a take-home STEM bag. Steve Baccam from Vision Bank assisted student and sent them home with a piggy bank to encourage them to begin saving their money. 

Boone students are fortunate to learn STEM concepts and extend learning with hands-on activities thanks to so many of our generous business partners.