7 Free Resources to Maximize STEM Project-Based Learning

Thinking about science class, many recall Bunsen burners, charts, and experiments. In the new digital learning age, fostering scientific inquiry through STEM studies means trying new things. Applying the logic of the scientific method to teaching kids requires empowering educators with ready-to-use resources and ideas that don’t require too much lift. 

Every student has the capacity to do great things in life, and the world has its share of problems that need solving – the trick is getting young innovators involved, with the help of relevant and accessible experiential learning opportunities. That’s where the role of digital resources steps in. 

Discovery Education commits to meeting students, educators, and communities where they are with standards-aligned K-12 resources that enable project-based breakthroughs in just a few clicks. 

1. BLUEPRINTS FOR SUCCESS
   The Making for Good Challenge motivates students to innovate with purpose and passion, using the 6-step engineering design process: Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Test, and Improve! Let your students discover firsthand that loving what you do in life is the key to getting the best results.

   Learn more at Innovation Generation
    

2. THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL
   You can help your students take innovation from buzzword to real world with the Fueling Education Student Challenge. Tackle timely global issues on a relatable level by encouraging students to use the UN Sustainable Development Goals to solve problems in their community.

   Learn more at Fueling Education
    

3. INSPIRATION ON-DEMAND
   Hit all the right buttons to maximize student engagement with a customizable STEM activity database that lets you search for projects by category, career path, difficulty, and more! Help students zero-in on the types of challenges and solutions that resonate most with them.

   Learn more at Siemens STEM Day
    

4. ALL THE WONDER
   Open a virtual treasure trove with hundreds of ready-made project starters exploring a variety of topics in science and engineering. Each topic sends students on a unique investigation of our world through one of the three main branches of science: Life, Earth, and Physical.

   Learn more at Science Fair Central
    

5. MIND-BLOWING MADE EASY
   Ignite scientific curiosity instantly with super simple and always inspiring activities, based on world-changing scientific discoveries. Show your students how to tap into the fundamental forces of the universe using everyday household items!

   Learn more at 3M Young Scientist Lab
    

6. GIRL-CENTERED EXPLORATION
   Expand students’ horizons with girl-led, girl-tested and girl-approved activities and videos for students in grades K-5 that encourage interactive, hands-on exploration in the areas of cybersecurity, space, the environment and more!

   Learn more at Girls Get STEM 

7. DESIGN CHALLENGES FOR BETTER COMMUNITIES
   The future success of our world rests with today’s students. Help them understand the impact of STEM innovation on improving their community now and in the future with design challenges focused on everything from protecting the Earth’s freshwater supply to responding to natural hazards.

   Learn more at TGR EDU: Explore 

Whatever the learning style and level, each of these resources fit into the anywhere classroom. From mobile STEM labs to kitchen counters, connect your students to the real world with hands-on activities that ignite curiosity and grow innovation. Keep these diverse, no-cost digital resources bookmarked to engage students with learning adventures anytime, anywhere!

You can discover even more standards-aligned content to help connect your students to important real-world issues by visiting Discovery Education Experience today!