In today’s rapidly evolving world, hands-on STEM learning is key to preparing students for the future. Schools are increasingly seeking out these interactive experiences because they foster problem-solving, creativity, and real-world skills. At BirdBrain Technologies, we are passionate about making hands-on STEM accessible to all learners. Founded on the belief that every student deserves a chance to explore STEM, we’ve been empowering classrooms with tools like our Hummingbird Robotics Kit to inspire the next generation of innovators. Keep reading to discover five reasons schools are asking for more hands-on STEM learning — and access a free, downloadable poster showcasing inspirational STEM careers for your student.
Reason 1: Hands-on learning engages all types of learners.
Every educator has faced it: The daunting task of making on concept or task work for 20+ students, all at the same time. Students enter school each with their own unique learning styles, skill levels, and support needs – but it’s up to teachers to ensure that they each get what they need to thrive. Active, hands-on STEM activities can be tailored to diverse learning styles and needs, making STEM accessible to every student on your roster. This inclusivity gives all students a chance to build STEM confidence and skills.
Reason 2: Hands-on STEM leads to better knowledge retention.
When students actively participate in their learning, they retain knowledge and skills longer. Hands-on learning experiences move students beyond rote memorization to application and understanding. Studies have shown that active learning increases student performance in STEM, dramatically reducing the odds of failing grades (source). As they move toward future careers, students may not remember the specific projects that they completed, but they will likely remember how the experience made them feel and what they gained from it. These insights are what will encourage them to opt into future experiences in STEM, in school and beyond.
Reason 3: Hands-on STEM develops real-world skills.
STEM learning experiences offer exposure to myriad valuable, real-world skills with hardware and software. Even beyond “hard skills”, hands-on STEM builds a valuable foundation for student success in the real world. Through hands-on projects, students practice essential skills like critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and perseverance. These skills are critical for success in both school and life. In fact, the World Economic Forum cites problem-solving, creativity, and resilience as top skills for the workforce (source) — and they are all cultivated through hands-on STEM.
Reason 4: Hands-on learning fosters community engagement and pride.
Hands-on STEM projects often result in tangible, sharable products. These results, a point of motivation for students, can be showed to the larger school community and beyond. Family STEM nights, regional competitions, community showcases, and other interactive events foster a sense of accomplishment and pride among students. Start small with a display in your school’s hallway, or go all out and host an open community event – no matter how you share, sharing work with authentic audiences provides meaningful opportunities for students to share their learning, as well as creating visibility and excitement around STEM education.
BirdBrain user Pam Waters shared her tips and tricks for showcasing student work to an authentic audience on the BirdHouse Blog – check it out!
Reason 5: Hands-on STEM prepares students for future careers.
Requirements for career success are changing rapidly, and skills like hands-on problem solving and adaptability are more critical than ever. Many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and more, require technological expertise and active learning skills. Hands-on STEM education introduces students to these skills early, setting them up for future success. While they’re building the foundation for future career success, students are also introduced to career opportunities that they might not be aware of.
Want to inspire your students with a roundup of amazing STEM careers they might not know about? Download our free printable infographic to hang in your classroom now.