MAKE-YOUR-SPACE: SXSWedu’s makerspace “Playground” brought together some of the most maker-ish STEM products of the day this week. And since we got inspired by a Texas school that’s been using tech for students to virtually “meet” experts from STEM fields, we decided to check it out.
We’ve highlighted a few of SXSWedu’s maker tools and resources here to help you inspire your own students--the next generation of scientists, mathematicians, and imagineers.
- Tynker is a visual-based coding platform teaches kids computational thinking and programming skills. With colorful graphics and a self-guided curriculum system, students can use Tynker in the classroom, or learn to code on their own at home.
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SparkFun brings together tools and STEM curriculum. Using things like paper circuits and conductive thread, SparkFun’s retail store projects and products promote experiential learning and self-led exploration.
- A new startup from the Twin Cities, Play from Scratch, strives to be the most environmentally-friendly toy company out there. "An eco-friendly alternative to Lego," the YOXO kits allow kids to build structures out of everyday household items by providing sturdy connectors shaped like--you guessed it-- X, Y and O's, all made of 100% recycled materials.
- Surprise! ELA teachers, we didn’t want to leave you out. Power Poetry is the world’s first digital poetry community for youth. Power Poetry stands behind its message that “poetry has the potential to close the literacy gap.”
