As we start kicking off the new year, let’s take a moment to discuss what’s ahead for EdTech in 2019. Computational Thinking, Robotics, and Coding As we see an increase in makerspace and STEAM, computational thinking, robotics, and coding will continue to grow in 2019. Schools will be looking for solutions to help their students … Continue reading
Filed under 21st century skills …
Top 5 Posts of 2018
Can you believe that 2018 is coming to a close? 2018 has been a great year to say the least. We’ve heard a lot about STEAM education, collaborative classrooms, and so much more. Here is your 2018 recap from VAR Connection. #1 Infographic: Decision Makers in School Districts #2 How to Increase Girls’ Interest in STEM … Continue reading
9 Way to Make a Better Makerspace
Makerspaces are becoming the favorite way to bring STEAM learning to the classroom. Research shows that makerspaces help elementary students develop critical thinking, design thinking, and problem-solving skills. Research from Macquarie University in Australia shows how teachers can use makerspaces to improve teaching and learning outcomes. Using makerspaces has led to higher student engagement, confidence, … Continue reading
How to Prepare Students for the Job Market
For students to stay competitive in the changing job market, there are key skills they need to learn. Students need to start developing these skills as early as pre-kindergarten. These skills include learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills. Learning skills teach students how to adapt and improve upon a modern work environment. These skills … Continue reading
What’s Next with Wireless Internet
Schools are relying more and more on technology for classroom instruction. As schools add more technology, they need to rely on a fast wireless connection. Telecommunication giants are racing to roll out the fifth generation of wireless technology to keep up with the changing technology. 5G will expand VR/AR for classrooms, create a more personalized … Continue reading
Three Way to Transform Classrooms with Technology
Technology is changing the way students are learning. Gone are the days of textbooks and in-class lectures. Students are expanding their learning and career opportunities by traveling through the human body, visiting Antarctica, and doing hands-on activities. Technology and innovation are becoming more of a priority in school districts. Here are three tools educators are … Continue reading
How to Create a Successful STEM Program
We’ve been hearing about STEM education for quite some time now. Even though we’ve been talking about STEM for a few years, a poll from 2016 found that only 40% of U.S. schools were offering programming or coding classes. In order to successfully implement a program, educators need to know where to focus their time … Continue reading
Infographic: The Benefits of Tech in the Classroom According to Parents
In a survey from Microsoft and YouGov, 1,000 parents expressed their opinion on tech in the classroom. Technology is viewed mostly as a positive aspect of the classroom by parents. However, there are some concerns about how much screen time students are exposed to. Source: Microsoft and YouGov
Interest in STEM Careers is Declining for Boys. Now What?
Research found that boys are 12 percent less interested in STEM careers than last year. The main reason young people aren’t pursing STEM careers is because they feel these careers are too hard. So how do we get students interested in STEM? A good place to start is with the tools used in the classroom. … Continue reading
Transforming Learning with Video Games
With many new technologies in the workforce, engagement is critical to keep current on new information and mastering skills. However, keeping students engaged and trying to keep up with our fast-paced world can be difficult. The perfect way to keep students engaged is through video games. Video games capture attention, convert extrinsic rewards into intrinsic … Continue reading