5 useful tricks for managing a STEM classroom

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Every classroom is a busy place, but STEM-specific classrooms are built on collaboration, communication, and hands-on inquiry. Things are likely to be louder and more energetic. This is not a bad thing: it is “the sound of learning,” as a coworker once put it. However, it does mean that STEM classrooms require skilled management to keep students on task. So how can we, as educators, foster an environment of engagement and creativity without stifling our students' curiosity?

In my experience, educators looking to create a STEM-focused classroom can take advantage of five teaching tricks that allow them to manage students while fostering a growth mindset:

Trick 1: materials management

The first challenge in a STEM classroom is materials management. To optimize the use of materials, students must know where the materials are located, how to access them, when they can use them, and the appropriate ways to use them. Providing visual aids such as stop signs and container cheat sheets improves understanding. This creates a clear picture of where and how your learning takes place.

Trick 2: teach collaboration

Building a collaborative environment is essential in STEM education. Effective communication skills are vital to creating an inclusive atmosphere where every voice is heard and valued. This means teaching students not only to speak, but also to listen. When speaking, students should be clear, concise, and prepared to ask deeper questions. When listening, they must avoid interruptions, refrain from judging, and learn to pick up on verbal cues.

Trick 3: Keep it real

Interest-based learning allows students to independently question, explore, and solve real-world problems. Consider addressing issues such as earthquake safety, oil spill cleanup, or snow removal. These lessons not only impart practical information, but they also show students that their education is something that can be applied to the real world, including their homes and communities. Best of all, it's great for encouraging students' critical thinking, curiosity, and confidence.

Trick 4: cultivate curiosity

Cultivating curiosity is crucial to students' engagement and passion for STEM. Educators can model curiosity by presenting diverse perspectives, offering options, and asking proactive questions. For example, you could try them with the viral image of the blue dress to teach them about different perspectives, then ask them to reflect on the science behind the image. This trick is great for promoting independent thinking and increases classroom engagement!

Trick 5: Encourage growth

If you never fail, you're not trying new things. Encourage students to accept failure as part of the learning process. Show them the positive power of failure by sharing inspiring stories of people who learned and persevered from their disappointments (Walt Disney, Thomas Edison, and Oprah Winfrey are just a few!). By empowering students to fail like a champion, we teach them how to set goals and learn from their experiences.

It is important to remember that classroom management is not about maintaining order, but rather creating an environment in which students feel encouraged to explore, experiment, and interact with the material. By taking advantage of these five teaching tricks, educators can give students the freedom they need while also providing structure and a positive learning environment. Above all, remember to have fun. It's in STEM classrooms like these where the next generation of great thinkers grows up!