STEAM, Robotics and Coding Support

Model Schools program kicks off a series of STEAM-based events

 More than 70 educators spent a day with the LHRIC Instructional Technology Team for its biggest Playdate event in three years, engaging in hands-on activities and experiences geared to K-8 classrooms.

Attendees of the Computer Science/STEAM Playdate on Oct. 30 designed and built tiny houses, competed in a robotic "field day," designed the perfect class pet, and engaged in a coding "hackathon." They experienced the joy of discovery, embracing “aha!” moments as they worked through engaging STEAM and coding activities.

Most of all, they were encouraged to let go of expectations and allow themselves to play, explore and learn without limits.

Jerrod Blair, Director of Technology and Innovation at Irvington, called the event a resounding success. It brought together educators to explore innovative tools and resources that can enhance learning, Mr. Blair said. 

“Participants had the opportunity to experiment with cutting-edge technologies, from coding platforms to interactive STEAM kits, all designed to engage students and foster creativity,” he said. “The event not only highlighted the potential of these tools to transform classroom experiences but also inspired educators to integrate more hands-on, inquiry-driven learning opportunities that will expand students’ understanding of the world through the lens of technology and innovation.”

The Computer Science/STEAM Playdates are designed for teachers, STEM/STEAM Coordinators, and Math/Science Coordinators. 

 Recognizing the challenge of launching or maintaining a systemic STEM program, they are designed to help schools select products with a range of considerations in mind, from teacher skills and school environment to desired outcomes. Selected vendor products were showcased to help participants build their own library of materials. 

Those interested in rolling up their sleeves and getting hands-on in a safe and fun learning environment had the perfect opportunity to do so alongside colleagues and fellow learners. In the process, participants examined how these products and tools support teaching and assessing New York State’s Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards.

The Suffern STEAM Team’s Michele McKiernan said her participation helped her to develop ideas about how to initiate programming with students and then extend beyond that through project-based approaches.

“I was particularly impressed with the thoughtful design in regards  to curriculum integration, as teachers are very protective of their time and are looking for opportunities to enhance the work they are already doing,” Ms. McKiernan said.

SWBOCES’ Director of Technology Victor Pineiro said the event provided an opportunity to explore different ways of learning for students using technologies that foster collaboration and independent work.

  “The tools used to help guide students in a paced learning environment were well thought out and provided an opportunity for us to experience learning from their perspective,”  Mr. Pineiro said. “Opportunities like this help to remind us about how important it is to design learning with the student in mind and to differentiate the experience according to how they learn best.”

The STEAM Playdate was supported by vendor partners Teq, Inc., Defined Learning, Skillstruck and Code HS. It was developed by the LHRIC Model Schools team, led by Model Schools Coordinator Leslie Accardo. Their efforts inspired curiosity, creativity and thoughtfulness in our teachers who came to learn. View the event slide deck here.

The CS/STEAM Playdate kicked off what will be a series of STEAM-related programs this school year. A hands-on session with Lego Education, presenting "The Power of Purposeful Play" took place on Wednesday, Dec. 4.