Identify Connections to Prior Knowledge
Staff Development Guide
Training Situation : Coaching (one-on-one)
Length: 25 minutes
Objectives: Participants will watch the Presenting a Challenge Video-Based Learning Module and complete the Bridges worksheet to better connect everyday experiences to STEM.
Agenda:
- See the Skill in Action – 15 minutes
- Bridging STEM and Everday – 10 minutes
- Bridges Worksheet
Download Activity
DownloadVideo-Based Learning Module
Downloads Activity
DownloadAs you watch the skill video below, think about these questions:
- What does the facilitator do to ensure that all youth have some prior knowledge before beginning the design challenge?
- How does the facilitator learn about youth’s prior knowledge and experiences wtih roller coasters?
- What are some other ways you could introduce a roller coaster design challenge?
Now that you’ve watched the video, reflect on what you saw and post your responses.
- What can make connecting to prior knowledge and experiences more difficult when doing a design challenge activity?
- Why is it important to go over instructions when doing a design challenge? How can that influence youth engagement?
Explore More Like This
Considerations When Giving Youth Control
Discuss concerns and the “Developing a STEM Project” Video-Based Learning Module in order to give youth control of STEM learning experiences.
Improving Connections
Design dough creatures to learn to connect youths’ prior experiences to STEM activities.
Giving Youth a Role
Make Your Own Rules activity to learn how to support giving youth more control over their learning.