Why a Virtual STEM Program will Continue Post-Pandemic

During COVID, virtual STEM environments have proven they offer unique learning opportunities for students.  Whether it be through an exchange with peers, teachers or some sort of software – virtual STEM is an authentic learning experience with some sort of interactivity related to science, technology, engineering and math. This interactivity is important because it ties learning to real world situations rather than abstract concepts.

This past year, when schools had to rely on virtual learning, it became clear that there are many advantages to a virtual STEM environment. Even when classes moved back to in-person learning, these advantages remained. Here are 3 reasons why virtual STEM learning experiences will continue, even as schools move back to in-person learning.

More Access

Virtual STEM activities allow for learning to continue whether the classroom model is remote, hybrid or in-person. Teachers are also finding that students in a virtual STEM environment are highly engaged. Students take charge more often virtually, especially in instances when they’re working on the engineering aspect of STEM.  Students take the lead when they are deciding how they are going to research, analyze and test.

Interaction with STEM Experts

With video conferencing becoming a norm throughout the pandemic, teachers have greater access to speakers who can provide additional learning experiences to their students – such as STEM experts. Before the pandemic, a teacher may not have had access to a STEM expert. Now that video conferencing has become more widely utilized, educators have realized that they can access STEM experts from far and wide to speak to their students whether class is being held virtually or in-person.

With the ability to virtually connect, students have the opportunity to learn directly from experts in STEM-related areas, as well as ask questions and receive feedback.

Increased Understanding of Math and Science Concepts

A virtual STEM environment allows for students to experience the value of research and decision-making through the design process of a STEM project. Virtual STEM programs allow students to become hands-on with the process by being able to create designs, work to improve the design, and then compete against other students’ designs.

With schools returning to an in-person learning model, one thing that might just stay virtual are STEM programs because of the great benefits they provide.

Story via eSchool News