Strategies for Teaching STEM: Getting Started – Robert Walsh, Part 1 (Homeschooling Every Subject)

Come back Wednesday and Thursday for the rest of this conversation.

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Recommended Resources

Excalibur Solutions STEM Academy

Scratch Programming Language - Learn to Code

TinkerCAD – Learn 3d Modeling, Coding, and Electrical Design, and Physics

Snap Circuits – Learn Electronics

Introduction to Logic, by Dr. Jason Lisle – Masterbooks

Podcast Recommendations:

Homeschooling Every Subject Series

Thinking Dad Podcast

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Discussion Questions:

1. Robert mentions the complexity of learning STEM due to its interdisciplinary nature and the need to learn a new "language." How can parents make this dual learning process less overwhelming for students?

2. Yvette shares her apprehension towards teaching STEM subjects. What strategies can parents who feel similarly employ to effectively teach these subjects to their children?

3. Robert emphasizes the importance of exposing children to STEM subjects to prevent preconceived misconceptions about these subjects. What are some practical ways to introduce these subjects to children at home?

4. Discuss the differences between what Robert calls 'single subject STEM' and 'crafty STEM' versus effective STEM projects. Why is it important to distinguish between these types?

5. How can tools like Scratch and Tinkercad facilitate early interest and competency in STEM for young learners? Discuss their benefits and potential challenges.

6. Robert talks about the interdisciplinary component of STEM. How does this approach mirror real-world problem solving, and why is it vital for student learning?

7. Considering Robert's definition of STEM, how might homeschooling parents create authentic, interdisciplinary STEM projects for their children?

8. Robert mentions the transition from visual-based languages, like Scratch, to text-based languages, such as Python, in programming. Discuss the potential benefits and difficulties students might face during this transition.

9. How can learning tools like Tinkercad's circuit simulation and physics simulator help students understand abstract concepts in a more tangible way?

10. Yvette talks about the advantage of homeschooling in identifying a child's strengths and interests early on. How can parents leverage this knowledge to tailor a STEM education that both interests and challenges their child?

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