How NextWaveSTEM helps schools address the major challenges of STEM implementation
Using a program like NextWaveSTEM or creating your own curriculum?
Teachers play the most critical role in a students’ STEM education. Research shows the impact of quality instruction especially on students’ math skills, which are the foundation for all future STEM learning.
Excellent STEM instruction requires deep content knowledge and pedagogical skills. Because STEM is a new and constantly evolving field, it’s challenging for teachers to stay-up-to-date with the latest content and instructional strategies. Most importantly, teachers must be able to make instruction engaging and motivate students to learn. This requires not only understanding STEM concepts, but knowing why they are relevant to students’ current lives and futures.
Over the past few years, challenges have emerged when it comes to STEM programming. Namely, many teachers are leaving the profession and the ones that stay struggle to find the time to put together an adequate STEM curriculum as the pressure mounts for teachers to do more in less time.
Teachers challenges when Implementing STEM
STEM Teacher Training Is Often Insufficient
Studies of the teacher STEM-training pipeline show challenges at each stage, from teacher preparation programs to on-the-job professional development
Even with over 20 years of input from STEM professionals about how to improve STEM instruction, there is little empirical research to endorse what makes particular teacher preparation, professional development, and school leadership strategies effective.
The U.S. offers over 1,200 teacher education programs at universities and another 130 alternative routes to licensure, with a multitude of varying curriculum standards such as Next Generation Science and the National Science Teaching Association. These lead to a teacher workforce with different approaches, skills, and levels of background knowledge in STEM.
STEM Funding Shouldn’t Come from Teachers’ Pockets
According to the fundraising platform AdoptAClassroom.org, teachers in 2020-21 spent $750 of their own money on their classrooms, the highest amount ever. This is unsustainable and inequitable. To develop long-term successful STEM programs, schools must find cost-effective and reliable solutions for purchasing STEM curriculum and equipment.
STEM Lessons Are Time-Consuming to Prepare
Most teachers spend at least two hours in prep time outside class for every hour spent inside the class. This number increases when teachers are working with new material, as is often the case in STEM. This is where programs like NextWaveSTEM®, and their “All-In-One-Solution” become a reliable partner for teachers who look for efficiency and affordability.
Fortunately, now teachers can find affordable and innovative STEM programs designed not only to help them save both time and money, but also to set them up for the next generation of professional creators.
Learn more about our STEM programs for Professional Development
All-In-One-Solution Programs NextWaveSTEM®
Imagine you are trying to fly a drone but haven't done it before. Well, an “All-In-One-Solution” program provides you with in-depth guidance and resources to make it possible.
When our founder Udit Agarwal worked for CPS, he realized schools had either the equipment or the curriculum, but never a combined package. Our “All-In-One-Solution” solves this problem and streamlines implementation.
Curriculum and Learning Portal Access
With our curriculum and Learning Portal access, teachers and students benefit together with lesson plans that include teacher guides, presentation slides, student worksheets with answer keys, and extension opportunities.
You can actually easily request samples to experience the usability of our programs and friendly platform.
STEM Equipment Kits
In addition, our equipment has been designed to be used by students of all ages so that they can explore the exciting world of STEM. Our STEM Equipment Kits provide materials for an entire classroom.
Professional Development
Our team provides hands-on and year-round implementation support that teachers will leverage with intensive training in STEM learning, NWS® curriculum, equipment, and instructional strategies.
You can learn more about our incredible workshops and see how complete they are to help you reach your best potential in STEM learning.
Course Guide
Interested in teaching with Drones? Download our Exploration of Drones course guide for free!
The importance of training educators in STEM learning
Despite the obstacles, STEM training is accessible for teachers and schools.
The benefits are incredibly impactful on the future of students and the personal satisfaction of teachers.
An effective STEM curriculum depends on the adequate training and continued professional development of educators and school administrators.
Even teachers who don't have a STEM background can learn the common science-based language necessary to plan lessons and facilitate project-based learning.
Ensuring teachers have the skills and tools to advance STEM education helps future professionals prepare for global competitiveness.