As a result of the new focus on STEM, STEM labs are popping up all over the place! Has someone asked you to teach STEM and set up a lab? Starting a STEM lab can be overwhelming. So, here are some great tips that will help you get started in an organized fashion!
A few years ago, my administrator asked me if I would like to start teaching STEM (I had taught second grade and special education for many years). I was intrigued, and after much thought decided I was up for the challenge! Fortunately, my husband teaches science and STEM at the middle school level, so I was in a better position than most. Consulting with him about basic needs was a logical step. Additionally, I did a lot of research about elementary STEM programs and read and reread the Next Generation Science Standards.
What I have done is put together a list of all of the equipment and supplies that are needed to run an efficient lab. I suggest that if you are starting a new position you let everyone in your district know what you need before you place an order. In many districts science is getting squeezed due to the emphasis on ELA and math test scores. Consequently, teachers often have equipment that they are willing to donate! At the same time, many of the materials that are used in a STEM lab are things that are readily brought in by fellow teachers and students.
Equipment – These are the non-consumables.
Materials – These are the consumables.
When I list plurals of equipment I try to order 5 or 6, so that each table group can have equipment to work with. I know this list is extensive. You may need to prioritize, and order what you can, when you can!
Complete Start Up Resource – Click on the cover to see the resource.
Best of luck with your new adventure!
Sarah
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Good day
I am excited after reading the tips on getting started to create and run a STEM lab. I am based in the rural area of South Africa, where learning is still a challenge; caused by a combination of resources (materials) lacking but also human resources such as teachers and we'll qualified and experienced people to stimulate interest in STEM. I would like to partner with your organisation to learn and be inspired on your innovative ideas to start and run a successful STEM programme. To impact kids from an early age, thereby creating a generation of innovative and STEM enthusiasts. My email address is Lazarus@harvestoutreach.org.za currently in the United States up until 21st June 2017
Lazarus,
I will email you directly! How exciting to have influenced someone as far away as Africa!
Sarah
Good morning and Happy new year, Sarah. I am Femi a Science teacher from Nigeria and I have been doing a lot of research in the area of STEM education. I want to begin STEM in my school and needs a lot of experienced contribution to achieve my core goals both short and long term.
Your write up is very helpful but I'll appreciate more assistance if you can.
I can be reached on fbakkie@ymail.com
Happy New Year to you. You can reach me at scienceandsteamteam@gmail.com and let me know what type of assistance you are looking for. I will be happy to help you.
Hi,
I love your website, your blog and all your materials that are sold on Teachers pay Teachers. I think I may have seen s book recommended on your blog about teams working together to solve logic type problems. Some of the activities in the book are Tim's Number and What's the Color. I can't seem to find the name of the book and I was hoping to purchase it. If you have the title please email it to me.
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Hi Sandi!
I have reached out to our team but we haven't been able to place those logic puzzles. I'm so sorry! If it turns up I will be sure to let you know.
Meredith
Hi Sarah,
Stem labs is still a new but upcoming concept in India. I am an elementary school head in a school in delhi and am very keen to set up a stem lab here. Your article is interesting and helpful and would love to get further updates and guidelines from you.
Regards,
Shalini
Shalini,
Thanks for reaching out! If you have specific questions you can email me at stemtosteamtrio@gmail and I will be more than happy to guide you as best as I can.
Sarah
I work at a small school and they asked me if I would be willing to do a STEM project. I have never done one before and wanted to look up some help. That is a great idea to put together a list of what supplies I will need for the experiment. That will make it easier for me and the staff who are helping me out. Thanks for the tips!
Deb,
I am so pleased that my post could give you some tips that you found helpful! If you need any more guidance feel free to email me at stemtosteamtrio@gmail.com.
Sarah
Thanks for sharing a list of elementary stem lab requirements. I have been working to introduce STEM education to kids with full dedication. I can see kids would love to work in this lab which sounds interesting and fun for kids.
Good morning, Noah. I just received this comment this morning! How strange. So, now that time has passed, how is your STEM education program going!?
I teach Standard 2 Class at a small school in Tlokweng, Botswana. My school Director recently purchased Science lab equipment/materials and I have been tasked to set up and be in charge of the Science Lab in January when school resumes. It’s an exciting challenge. I just came across your page, just what I needed. Thank you Sarah for the tips.
Regards
Eva
Hi Eva,
I just got notification of your note today!
I am so happy that my tips could help you with your new venture!
Let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.
If there is you can email me at stemtosteamtrio@gmail.com.
Best,
Sarah
STEM is a great online course I have studied. It's amazing to learn more about the STEM the proper way of delivering ones speech or article. This course encourages learners to deeply understand the importance of science which is focused on renewable resources that could help eliminate the harmful gases causing our planet's temperature high. I am looking forward to access some free online courses for personal development and insight. Thank you.
Brian,
It is exciting to see that there is yet another person interested in STEM. You have come to the right place to read some great free articles. You might also want to check out the blog scienceandsteamteam.com.
Sarah
Very interesting! Thanks for sharing!
I'm glad you enjoyed the article! Best of luck setting up your lab!