At Phosphor we are huge advocates of experiential learning – especially with STEM subjects which can seem very abstract when presented solely on a page in a textbook. Not only is it an essential way to engage learners, it is a great way of building more nuanced skills:
- Thinking creatively
- Testing ideas and learning from failures
- Reflection and introspection
- Grasping difficult or abstract concepts
- Cultivating a growth mindset
However, the past few years have been tough for educators to incorporate experiential learning methods into their teaching. Between home school during Covid and with department budgets tightening in the face of the cost of living crisis the opportunities and resources for experiential learning have been limited.
The great news is that there are loads of fantastic resources (free and paid for) that provide that crucial experiential learning experience in the classroom.
The Institute of Engineering and Technology has free resources for Primary and Secondary schools with experiments and activities that don’t require any specialist equipment.
The Canals and Rivers Trust have a great free bundle of STEM activities –
We have a great selection of STEM activity boxes – with all the resources, equipment and teachers notes you need – are fun for pupils and easy for you to deliver. They are designed to be done as a group or individually so you can find the best solution for your budget.