3. The new age of STEAM is upon us.
While many lesson plans emphasize either “technical” subjects like math or science, or “liberal arts” subjects like reading and language, technology can–and should–be an important component to all lesson plans.
To keep creativity at the forefront of the educational spectrum, while also fostering “hard skills” like STEM, it is important to emphasize the arts the “A” in STEAM education. Whether students have an affinity for the arts or not, incorporating elements of creativity into STEM education has undeniable benefits, including making STEM more approachable and understandable. The STEAM model will continue to take shape in the coming year.
4. Awareness of play-based curriculum will help students master STEM early–but not too early.
In order for children to truly succeed in STEM, their kindergarten education must focus on concrete practice rather than observation. This is more commonly known as teaching through the process of play versus learning. Play-based curriculum lets children take the lead in exploring and asking open-ended questions that ultimately cause them to reflect on their actions, form theories and begin thinking strategically. This theory is predicted to take a bigger role in early childhood education in the next year and beyond.
It’s encouraging that the 2018 education industry is predicted to be structured in a way that is preparing the next generation with the skills they’ll need to survive and thrive once they enter the workforce. Ultimately, it’s up to individual districts and teachers to determine how their classrooms will function, but the good news is that we’re entering the new year on a strong, positive footing, geared towards equipping students for their future, right from the get-go.
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