Innovative companies like iRobot face many of the same challenges as teachers and school districts that are adopting and beginning to implement the Next Generation Science Standards.
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Topics: Next Generation Science Standards, Guest Innovator, Innovation, Implementing New Science Standards, Three-Dimensional Learning
"I think that's what makes true mentors really exceptional. They're able to guide you to learn these different things, even if they know that what you're doing isn't going to work, but they know how to inspire you. They know how to help you build confidence and they know how to help you to think the right way. Ultimately, science is not about memorizing facts. We live in a society where we can look anything up online, but how do you use that information in a way that is productive, that builds something. Those are the critical thinking skills that everyone is talking about." - Dr. Angle
Massachusetts-based innovator Dr. Erika Ebbel Angle chats with KnowAtom CEO Francis Vigeant about her work with microbiomes, and the importance of female role models, mentors, and nurturing educators to inspire more women to pursue careers in STEM.
In their conversation, transcribed below, you'll learn about:
- What microbiomes are and what Ixcela does to help people rebalance their internal fitness
- How one sixth grade English teacher served as the catalyst for Erika's love of science
- Why cultivating a learning environment where mistakes can happen is vital
Topics: Guest Innovator, Innovation
"Risk and fear is key. You got to make sure these kids understand it's okay to take a risk, and the only fear, the only thing that you have to fear is basically, failure, and that's not an option. You got to just tell them, “look, we need innovation. We need you." -Corky Newcomb
Self-described "Inventor Mentor" Corky Newcomb spoke at the STEM² Summit about the need for great ideas from young students and how teachers can allow those ideas to come to fruition.
In this transcript of his talk at the Summit, you'll read about:
- Newcomb's own family heritage and how it shaped him into the inventor he is today
- His dream for an American "Revovention"
- How to encourage students to pursue their dreams
Topics: STEM Squared Summit, Guest Innovator
"I think kids younger and younger can interface with these tools of 3D printing and scanning and whatnot and be able to manifest some ideas. ... Whatever it is they happen to be into, find a way to have them pursue it and pursue it in an open-ended way — to think about it experimentally." -Sean O'Reilly
3D printing innovator Sean O'Reilly weighs in at the STEM² Summit on the rise of this new industry and how it factors into STEM education.
In his lecture, transcribed below, you'll hear about:
- A breakdown of what 3D printing is and how it works
- O'Reilly's own background in STEM learning as a child
- How 3D printing could be used in the classroom
Topics: STEM Squared Summit, Guest Innovator
