In my continued search for engaging and innovative resources for educators, I have once again delved into the world of TED Talks, this time focusing on the fascinating intersection of STEAM: science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. For math teachers and STEAM educators, these talks are a gold mine of inspiration and ideas. They offer a wealth of perspectives, from the art of science to the magic of mathematics, making them perfect for sparking a love of learning in students.
Whether you're looking to revitalize your teaching approach or find new ways to engage your students in STEAM topics, these talks, curated from TED playlists, are sure to enrich your classroom discussions and teaching practices.
Related: The Best Math TED Talks for Teachers and Students
TED Talks on STEAM education
Here is our list of some of the best TED talks on STEAM education:
1. How I teach children to love scienceCesar Harada
At Hong Kong's Harbor School, TED Senior Fellow Cesar Harada is revolutionizing science education. He has transformed his classroom into a large industrial space where students practice materials such as wood, metal and optics. Here, children not only learn about environmental science; They actively invent solutions for ocean preservation. Harada's philosophy, rooted in the principle of learning by doing (and cleaning up one's own messes), is nurturing a new generation of passionate environmentalists.
2. A lovely way to teach children about computers.Linda Lucas
Linda Liukas imagines a world where computer coding is a universal language accessible to children. In her talk, she reframes the perception of computers from complex mechanical devices to creative and expressive tools ready for exploration. Liukas advocates for a more colorful and imaginative approach to teaching coding, aiming to inspire children to become the innovative programmers of tomorrow, embodying the spirit of pioneers like Ada Lovelace.
3. Practical science with soft circuitsAnn Marie Thomas
AnnMarie Thomas presents an electrifying way to learn about circuits with “soft circuits” made from homemade play dough. In her lively demonstration, she shows how this simple and playful approach can teach children about electrical properties. By using dough to light LEDs and power motors, Thomas turns young students into budding circuit designers, making science fun and accessible.
4. Life lessons through tinkeringGever Tulley
Gever Tulley, founder of Tinkering School, shares the profound learning experiences children gain through tinkering. He illustrates how, with access to tools, materials, and a little guidance, children can unleash their creativity and problem-solving skills, building everything from boats to roller coasters. Tulley's approach emphasizes the value of hands-on learning and the power of imagination to foster innovation and critical thinking.
5. Teach teachers how to create magic.Christopher Emdin
Christopher Emdin, educator and science advocate, reveals the secret to engaging and effective teaching. Drawing parallels between classrooms and the dynamic environments of rap shows, barbershops, and churches, Emdin highlights the importance of engagement and storytelling in education. His vision is to empower educators to create a magical, relatable and exciting learning environment, transforming the way students experience science.
6. psychedelic scienceFabian Oefner
Swiss artist and photographer Fabian Oefner brings together art and science in a fascinating display of psychedelic images. He demonstrates how everyday scientific phenomena, such as the interaction of crystals with sound waves or mixing paint with magnetic liquid, can create stunning visual art. Oefner's work is a vibrant testament to the beauty of scientific exploration and its artistic potential.
7. Math class needs a makeoverand meyer
Dan Meyer challenges the conventional approach to mathematics education that emphasizes rote learning and formulaic problem solving. He argues that current mathematics curricula deprive students of an essential skill: the ability to formulate problems. Meyer advocates for a radical change in teaching methods and proposes engaging, real-world exercises that encourage students to think critically and creatively about mathematics.
8. Do schools kill creativity?sir ken robinson
In a deeply impactful talk, Sir Ken Robinson makes a compelling case for an education system that encourages creativity rather than inhibits it. He argues that current educational models, which prioritize academic achievement and conformity, stifle the creative potential inherent in every child. Robinson's vision is of a transformation of education that cultivates creativity and recognizes multiple types of intelligence.
9. How games make kids smarterGabe Zichermann
Gabe Zichermann explores the surprising benefits of video games, arguing that the game can improve cognitive and problem-solving skills in children. He suggests that the skills developed through games, such as strategic thinking and multit
10. How algorithms shape our worldKevin Slavin
Kevin Slavin delves into the pervasive and often invisible influence of algorithms on our daily lives. From stock market fluctuations to spying strategies, and even the selection of movies we watch, he illustrates how algorithms make critical decisions on our behalf. Slavin raises important questions about our dependence on these complex systems and the point at which we might lose control over them, highlighting the profound impact of algorithms in shaping our world.
eleven. The magic of Fibonacci numbersArturo Benjamin
Arthur Benjamin, also known as the “Mathemagus”, brings to life the fascinating world of the Fibonacci series in this engaging talk. He explores the fascinating properties of this famous sequence of numbers and demonstrates how they appear unexpectedly in various aspects of nature, art, and life. Benjamin's presentation is a reminder of the beauty and inspiration that mathematics, often perceived as purely logical and functional, can offer.
12. Why I fell in love with monstrous prime numbersAdam Spencer
Comedian and math enthusiast Adam Spencer shares his fascination with “monster” primes, extraordinarily long numbers that are only divisible by themselves and one. His talk is a journey into the world of these massive numbers, exploring the challenges and excitement of discovering new prime numbers. Spencer's enthusiasm and humor make a seemingly esoteric topic accessible and engaging, revealing the captivating nature of mathematical exploration.
Final thoughts
In short, these TED talks are more than just presentations; They are gateways to reinvent STEAM education. Each speaker brings a unique combination of experience, creativity and passion, offering invaluable insights into how we can make learning more dynamic, inclusive and exciting. So, let's bring these ideas and knowledge to our classrooms and continue to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators and innovators.
