pi-top blog

For a long time, STEM was the hot topic in the world of education. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics were deemed the most desirable mix of academic subjects and we all left it at that.

That was until talk moved away from conventional methods of teaching, with noses in textbooks and teachers giving lectures, to creative learning and its valuable place in STEM classes. This is where STEAM made its entrance. People realized that art in all its glorious forms, had a seat at the table when it came to helping students to thrive in their STEM subjects.

Have you ever heard a student say that they hate math? Many children are disengaged when it comes to core subjects and traditional learning. Maybe it is because they find it boring, or perhaps they struggle to understand the subject.  So, how can educators make the traditional content more engaging? 

In walks the 'A' in STEAM! Art gives kids who feel withdrawn from traditional topics a way in. By incorporating art into STEM projects, the creative talents of young learners are able to thrive. This gives children a sense of accomplishment necessary for kids to feel confident in their abilities. After that, STEM learning comes naturally. STEAM transforms "I hate math" into: "huh, that was math, really?" Of course it was!

Last, but certainly not least, getting creative has great benefits on the mental wellbeing of both children and adults. Whether it be due to practicing mindfulness, or simply an opportunity to be creative - art helps us to express ourselves and build confidence. And, when we feel confident, learning becomes easier.

Here’s your chance! 

We’ve put together some fun creative STEAM projects for you to try out in your classrooms. Let your students' creativity run wild with different colours and designs - all while they practice their computer science skills!

1. Rover Tunnel Card Project

In this STEAM focused challenge, you will create and build an interactive tunnel card! Use your creativity to customize the card, become an engineer and construct the LED base, then finalize the rover's world by programming LED visual effects initiated with the press of a button.

Find the full project tutorial with printable templates here.

2. Fairground Carousel Project

In this STEAM focused challenge, you will create a motorized carousel! Use your creativity to customize the project, become an engineer and construct the carousel with the intricate base, then finalize the prototype by programming LED visual effects and motion.

Find the full project tutorial with printable templates here.

3. Zoetrope Animation Project

In this STEAM focused challenge, you will create and build a motorized zoetrope! Use your creativity to create the animation, become an engineer and construct the device, then finalize the project by programming a motor to turn the zoetrope! In this challenge on Further, you'll learn about the history of the zoetrope before getting creative by making your own.

Find the full project tutorial with printable templates here.

Make sure to tag us in your posts on our socials if you try these projects out!