STEAM revisited…surfing on hold today…

A major objective of my sabbatical is “engaging in a dialogue and see the planning, organization and delivery of course content and project-based learning in the area of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) that leads to enhanced understanding of the processes that underlie how individuals become lifelong STEAM learners, STEAM practitioners and STEAM researchers as well as the structures and mechanisms that lead to achieving these outcomes.” A bit academic perhaps, but these ideas heighten our knowledge and understanding of the “collaborative nature of academic disciplines” that engage and create opportunities for interdisciplinary study, innovative and creative instructional and curricular design, as well as student work and research.

At TED 2002, Dr. Mae Jemison (physicist, dancer, and the first African American woman in space), said, “The difference between science and the arts is not that they are different sides of the same coin… or even different parts of the same continuum, but rather, they are manifestations of the same thing. The arts and sciences are avatars of human creativity.” She further states, “Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity.”

Schools nationwide are abstaining from a wide variety of “arts” programs (Visual, Performing, Fine, Language, and the Liberal Arts) to instead focus on teach-to-the-test courses catered to math and reading. The problem here is that a narrow focus on testing reinforces narrow-minded thinking. The STEAM approach is a critical “bridge” in moving from the “silo-ridden landscape” of high stakes testing to more creative and innovative collaborations and partnerships. STEAM education is a model of collaboration. The world is connected in so many ways that this allows for the collaboration to work together, and to solve problems as a model for education.

In my opinion, HTHSCV is an innovative school and program that embraces a “STEAM community of learners.” As, one teacher told me, “everything we do is STEAM –fascinating idea actually!” The depth and breadth of knowledge and understanding of design thinking is central in keeping a keen eye on how to “apply” this information through an array of student generated exhibitions, concept models, digital and art designs, conversations and dialogues, and external community projects.

Just one more thought. If as Jemison states, “The arts and sciences are avatars of human creativity,” then the HTHSCV teachers and support staff are the “epoxy” that is crucial to successfully providing a remarkable interdisciplinary “world-view” experience with students. The teaching staff is one of the best I’ve seen in 40 years of teaching. As is often said, “you know quality when you see it,” and the variety of experiences I’ve enjoyed (as observer/listener, lecturer, volunteer, co-teacher, etc.) have provided a rare opportunity to become part of a unique and dynamic learning community.

If we are to fully embrace STEAM, we need to have innovative and creative instructional leadership in the classrooms, studios and labs to mentor, guide and facilitate instruction. Just wanted to take a moment and thank all the HTHSCV teachers for all you do – you are an extraordinary group of professionals and I’m honored to be on the journey with you! Now I can go surf and have Rubio’s afterwards!