STEAM
STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics to guide student dialogue, critical thinking, and creativity. STEAM takes STEM to the next level, giving students the opportunity to be expressive in demonstrating an understanding of design, problem-solving, and innovation. A more comprehensive definition is taken from the ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) website:
"STEAM, an interdisciplinary spin on STEM that includes an “A” for art, is an integral part of influencing kids’ interest in STEM by allowing kids to explore these subjects through hands-on making. STEAM is a popular movement that was founded in 2007 to promote and integrate design and art in STEM fields. The movement [is comprised of] "Science and Technology, interpreted through Engineering and the Arts, all based on elements of Mathematics.”
Council Rock's STEAM program is for students in grades 1 - 6 as part of the Specials rotation. Content covered includes coding, robotics, digital citizenship, digital fabrication, and the Engineering Design Process.
One of the pillars of our program is approaching STEAM instruction through the Engineering Design Process. The graphic below shows how students are introduced early to the language of problem-solving. This language, and the process it describes, prepares students to approach challenges in a multitude of disciplines and eventually becomes a thinking tool they can use in school and beyond. A good description of the EDP can be found on the TeachEngineering website:
"The engineering design process is a series of steps that guides engineering teams as we solve problems.
It emphasizes open-ended problem-solving and encourages students to learn from failure.
This process nurtures students’ abilities to create innovative solutions to challenges in any subject."
Pennsylvania promotes STEAM teaching and learning through the PA STEELS framework and standards released by the Department of Education in November 2022. Science, Technology & Engineering, and Environmental Literacy & Sustainability Academic (STEELS) Standards guide the study of the natural and human-made world through inquiry, problem-solving, critical thinking, and authentic exploration.
Council Rock is proud of its STEAM Team, and the forward-thinking concepts shared with our elementary students. Please contact me directly with any questions or for further information.
Andrea Mangold
STEAM Program Manager
Director of District Communications
amangold@crsd.org
215-944-1039
STEAM SPECIALISTS 2023-2024
Stephanie Andreoli
Nikki Birkbeck
Emily Butler
Traci Geller
Tara Handfinger
Danielle Pugliese
Nick Schmoyer
Jen Sinisi