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"It's time to ramp up science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in the K-2 classroom. Benefits of early learning in science and math include the following: (a) It leads to social-emotional development and fewer challenging behaviors; (b) it supports the development of a mind-set that includes curiosity, communication, persistence, and problem solving; (c) it contributes to gains in other subjects by supporting literacy and language development and better reading comprehension and writing skills; and (d) it includes subjects that can engage students from varying backgrounds, including English language learners. But delivering quality early STEM information requires expertise on the part of the teacher in scaffolding the lessons. Research shows that quality STEM teaching and learning is critical in early childhood education; however, it is also points out that the teachers themselves need support as they learn how to facilitate STEM learning in their classrooms. Professional learning experiences are needed to cover how teachers can make connections between STEM topics and the everyday activities they are already doing with their students. STEM teaching and learning does not need to become one more add-on to the K-2 classroom. STEM learning should be a natural extension to what teachers are already teaching. It was with this in mind that we set out to write this book. We wanted to focus on how to naturally integrate STEM learning into K-2 classroom experiences"--
Info autore
Jo Anne Vasquez, Ph.D. is Vice President and Program Director of Arizona Transition Years' Teacher and Curriculum STEM Initiatives at the Helios Education Foundation. Jo Anne has been a classroom teacher, district science specialist for Mesa Public Schools, adjunct professor of science education at Arizona State University, and director of professional development and outreach for ASU's Center for Research on Education in Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology (CRESMET). A recognized leader in science education, Jo Anne is a Past President of NSTA (National Science Teachers Association), and the National Science Education Leadership Association. She was a Presidential Appointee to the National Science Board, as well as the first and only K-12 educator elected to the governing board of the National Science Foundation. Her distinguished service and extraordinary contributions to the advancement of science education at the local, state and national levels has won her numerous awards including NSTA's highest award, the 2006 Robert H. Carlton Award for Leadership in Science Education. She has been named Arizona's Outstanding Educator of the Year and the National Environmental Association's Teacher of the Year.
Riassunto
Here's proof that STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) isn't just for the big kids! This book's 10 chapters are a mini-course on blending authentic, phenomena-driven, integrated STEM teaching and learning into busy K–2 classrooms.