We often reflect on the dire need to change our schooling system to accommodate the rapid changes in the world. Without readily available resources, this can be challenging. It means teachers and schools need to adopt an inventive approach – finding ways to extend existing resources. By coupling with future learning ops, this becomes possible. It takes cooperation from the parents, the students, and the school.

Here are 3 ways teachers and learning institutes can turn their classrooms into a learning haven based on STEM principles within, or only slightly over, their existing budget.

1: Self-learning Techniques

Self-learning serves a number of functions: It simplifies teaching and it instils valuable skills in the students. Students who are able to progress at their own pace do better – information retention is increased. It also lightens the load for the teacher, as this position becomes a support measure rather than a primary learning source.

Self-learning is achieved through apps. Many learning apps and curriculum-based materials can be worked into the budget when textbooks are replaced. Take the time to research each app and make sure the features match your needs. Many apps are free but may contain a few adverts. If you’re on a budget, it gets the job done.

2: Make Robotics Basic

Robotics kits can be expensive. As much as you may appreciate the value this subject offers, committees and finance departments may not always sympathise. Fortunately, you can still offer students the benefits without the expensive kits. Look for some recommended STEM robotics activities using household items. There are activities utilising empty toilet rolls, batteries, and Christmas lights. Sure, it’s basic, but the kids will love it, and their learning processes can only benefit from it.

3: Create a Classroom Budget by Teaching Finance and Business Skills

Sometimes, being without a budget is the most valuable part of the learning process. It’s all about the attitude you have towards the issue at hand. If you’ve incorporated the STEM principles that are free and easy to follow successfully, your students will appreciate the importance of the concept. Acquiring more exciting learning materials, like technology and robotics kits is exciting. Create a budget by making a finance class in which children learn to manage money. Embark on a few fundraisers allowing students to work together to raise the money. They can then learn how to budget appropriately and shop around for the best bargains, based on the features they need the most.

How to get the most out of STEM for a revolutionary learning space

STEM principles are practical. For that reason, incorporating them into the classroom needn’t be expensive. It’s an approach or an attitude. Learning is one of the most natural human traits; it is in our nature to learn and discover. The resistance to learning in the classroom arises as the result of a rigid and outdated system. STEM changes that.

At Nvoke, we understand the value of modernised learning, but we also know the challenges faced by schools – it’s not always easy to make the switch. We are here to support this change. To learn more about how we facilitate this, get in touch: www.nvokepartners.com/contact/