STEM is more than science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It’s knowledge for life, using creativity, collaboration and communication to prepare Iowa students for careers of the future.
In Van Meter, Iowa, Tracy Ferguson has seen this in her classroom firsthand. Ferguson teaches second grade at Van Meter Elementary school, where she strives to create hands-on STEM experiences for students. After receiving a Pint-Sized Science award from the Scale-Up Program, Ferguson was on the lookout for unique projects that would help her students learn new skills with real-world applications. She found her inspiration in a dryer box at a Home Depot.
Using the Makedo Cardboard Construction kit included in her Scale-Up Program, Ferguson created a curriculum for students to build a house together. The project-based learning experience allowed students to explore STEM careers while building skills they’ll use their entire lives.
“I feel like I am the luckiest teacher in the world to have been awarded the Scale-Up Program for the past four years. These supplies, tools, and lessons have become a part of our daily routines in each of the content areas,” said Ferguson.
To start the project, the students learned about the professions involved in home construction including architects, construction workers, designers, electricians and realtors. Students applied for positions and were interviewed before beginning the project. Their work included:
- Architects: Researching, planning and designing.
- General Construction: Following designs, cutting and hinging.
- Roofers: Cutting, hinging, adding skylights and attaching shingles.
- Painters: Researching paint combinations, selecting colors and painting.
- Interior Designers: Sewing curtains, designing and constructing indoor appliances.
- Electricians: Attaching interior and exterior lights, and dual doorbells.
- Exterior Designers: Beautification of the exterior of the house.
- Real Estate Agents: Putting the house up for sale and making a commercial.
Professionals from the industry, including architects and construction workers, volunteered to help Ferguson’s class create their home. Parents, some of whom also work in the construction industry, were able to volunteer on the project.
During the project, the students used tools like sewing machines and electrical circuits to bring their plans to life. In addition to hands-on skills, students also improved their ability to collaborate, communicate and compromise—STEM skills that will help their lifelong learning.
“The best part of my day is when I witness students listening, collaborating, and communicating together in such a respectful manner in order to create that week's product,” said Ferguson. “This may seem trivial to anyone else, but collaboration does not come easy for a seven-year-old. STEM creates and builds this culture of collaboration in classrooms!”
After completing the project, Ferguson’s students brought it to the largest trade show convention in Iowa, Build My Future. Students learned directly from professionals in the skilled trade—highlighting an important, in-demand section of STEM careers.
For ten years, the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council has provided tools, programs and resources to connect students to outstanding STEM experiences. As a result, nearly one million young Iowans have had access to greater opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. And countless students, educators, parents and business partners have become a part of Iowa’s STEM story.
Have your own story to share? The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council wants to hear from Iowans who have been positively impacted by Council programs or events over the last decade.