Using Play to Enhance Classroom Understanding

          STEAM Clubs are a valuable resource for students who benefit from a hands-on approach to learning. I believe that incorporating play can help students gain a deeper understanding of various classroom concepts. We naturally embark on our learning journey through play, and when students actively engage in their learning, they are more inclined to explore topics in greater depth. This idea aligns with Newton's Law of Motion: "An object in motion stays in motion." Similarly, a brain in motion continues to learn. As we dig deeper into the concepts of STEAM clubs and their impact on student learning, it's essential to recognize how these clubs align with the goal of providing a hands-on approach to education.

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          STEAM puts academia into a real-world perspective. Through the STEAM lens, I aim to provide students with a hands-on approach to their learning. Those struggling with classroom concepts will find a safe space to grasp the same material from class in a different manner, with the option to simplify it if necessary. In the STEAM Club, students will have the opportunity to delve deeper into classroom concepts or collaborate with their peers to enhance their understanding of previously challenging topics. As we explore the importance of providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning and individualized approaches, it becomes clear that every child has the potential to succeed in their education.

          Every child is capable of learning; they only need the opportunity and guidance to do so in a way they understand. We must abandon the notion that students are too far gone to learn. Students need to develop pride in their learning. By showcasing their creations if they choose to do so, they allow others to see the outcome of their hard work. Teachers know their students, and it's essential to maintain open communication with classroom teachers to identify when students are struggling. However, teachers also have very full plates. We, as outside educators and parents, may need to address these issues first. As we shift our focus from the importance of individualized learning, it's crucial to emphasize a holistic approach that encourages students to take charge of their learning.

           Students will be assessed based on their efforts in the STEAM Club. Did they collaborate with their peers? Did they grasp the underlying concept? What did they learn from their failures, not whether the experiment/project was successful? The hope is for students to take charge of their learning willingly. Students recognize when they don't understand something. I aim to create an environment where they can learn through collaboration with peers, are unafraid to be wrong, and WANT to learn what is correct. It broke my heart to hear a teacher say that a child was too low to understand something and then give up on the student. We have to understand that this mindset is not entirely the teacher's fault. Our teachers have the heart to teach, but they are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of students they have. Some elementary classes have a ratio of twenty-eight to one. Our teachers need our help. As we consider the importance of assessing students' efforts in the STEAM Club and promoting a proactive approach to learning, it's essential to recognize the potential benefits of various programs and tools that can support both students and parents in this learning journey.

          I hope that shedding light on this subject encourages parents and outside educators to adopt a different approach and start helping students delve into their learning. Many programs can benefit our students and parents. ChatGPT is a valuable tool for parents and teachers. Sorry, kids, this one isn't for you! Parents who may not remember something can easily ask ChatGPT for information at the grade level their student is in. Teachers with multiple students at different levels can use ChatGPT to quickly break down subject matter to each student's level of understanding. Parents and educators alike can use Pinterest to find hands-on projects related to any TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills). Parents can discover creative activities for kids to do at home that complement their school learning. Outside educators can find projects aligned with classroom TEKS to make the concepts tangible. As we explore these valuable programs and tools for students and parents, it becomes evident that we are transitioning away from an age where memorization is paramount and moving toward fostering a deeper desire for knowledge-seeking and cultivating lifelong learners.

          We are transitioning away from an age where memorization is paramount. In a world where everything can be Googled, we must instill in children the desire to search for knowledge. We must cultivate lifelong learners because the world changes every day, and we need to equip our children to be self-sufficient learners. We do not know the world they will inhabit when they enter the workforce, so we must prepare them to adapt and learn independently.