How to run a STEM Challenge

STEM Challenges (sometimes called STEAM challenges when you include an art component) can seem intimidating – all of those materials…and kids…and chaos! But there is no better way for students to learn about the the design and engineering process than to get their hands on some supplies and really dig in.

What Makes STEM Challenges Special?

1. Simple and Affordable Materials:
STEM challenges are all about accessibility. They use inexpensive and easily obtainable materials, making them a perfect choice for classrooms and homeschool settings. Our STEM challenges use materials that can be found in your art cabinet or kitchen, such as straws, glue, coffee filters, and markers.

2. Engaging Problem Solving:
Students are presented with a challenge that requires building a 2D or 3D solution. This approach fosters creativity and encourages innovative thinking. The problems students solve align with what they are already learning about in their science lessons. For example, if students are learning about how seeds travel, they may participate in a STEM Challenge to create and test their own seed carrier.

3. Collaborative Yet Individual:
Children will work with classmates on their STEM challenges, but can design their own solutions. This balance promotes individual creativity within a collaborative environment.

4. Celebrate Trial and Error:
The focus of STEM challenges is on the learning process itself. There is no one “right” way to complete a STEM challenge. Some designs will work, and some won’t – that’s okay! Each attempt is a step forward. Celebrating these trials encourages kids to think critically about how to improve next time.

5. Independent Exploration:
Participants are encouraged to work independently without step-by-step guidance. This approach develops problem-solving skills and boosts confidence.

The Engineering & Design Process

A key component of STEM challenges is the “Engineering & Design Process.” This structured approach helps guide students through each stage of problem-solving. The steps include:

1. Ask:
What question are students trying to answer?

2. Imagine:
Explore different solutions through brainstorming.

3. Plan:
Students will decide how they can use their materials to solve the problem.

4. Create:
Students will build, adjust, and modify during the challenge time. This stage is hands-on and allows kids to bring their ideas to life.

5. Test:
Students will evaluate if their design meets the goal and requirements of the challenge.

6. Improve:
In this stage, student think about what they can do better next time to improve their design.

Important Tips When Running a STEM Challenge

A big part of a STEM challenge is making sure your students have some great background information on the topic they are studying. We highly recommend using books, songs, and videos to get all learners actively engaged in the process. Students can watch/listen independently (as part of a flipped classroom model), or you can present the background information to the entire class. This is a great way to clarify any misconceptions.

Students can complete STEM challenges alone or in pairs. You might do one activity each day or rotate between different stations. Each activity takes 30-60 minutes to complete depending on how much background knowledge you need to build.

During the challenge, be sure to praise effort and ask some thought-provoking questions. It is important thing is for students to follow the guidelines of the assignment while knowing that there is not one “right” solution/build. This may be a difficult process for students who are perfectionists or are grade-oriented. Learning about growth mindset is an excellent place to start for those students.

If you need a few STEM challenges with all of the components, check out these challenges on seed dispersal, or these challenges on flowers. We also have a bundle of fall STEAM challenges and a bundle of winter STEAM challenges.

Final Thoughts

STEM challenges are an exciting way to integrate multiple disciplines into a single learning experience. They promote critical thinking, collaboration, and the development of essential skills. So, gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and dive into the world of STEM challenges today!