As we gear up for the ISTE 2024 conference, we’re filled with excitement and inspiration from the incredible journey we’ve had since last year. At ISTE 2023, we introduced our Climate Action Kit and were honored to receive the Best of Show award from Tech Learning Awards. This recognition has propelled us forward, and over the past year we’ve had the privilege of empowering hundreds-of-thousands of students with vital skills in coding, STEM, and climate action.
A Year in Review: Using Stem Activities for Kids to make Technical Subjects More Accessible
Our journey over the past year has been deeply inspired by the educators and students who have embraced the Climate Action Kit. We've heard countless stories of students who, typically reserved and hesitant, have found themselves fully engaged in collaborative projects, driven by the real-world relevance of climate action. One notable instance is of a student who struggled with technical subjects become fully engaged.
"There was one student who has struggled. She did not like coding and did not like doing micro:bits earlier in the year. But when I asked her what she thought of [the Climate Action Kit], she said it was super fun because she was able to solve problems with her teammate.
And as a teacher it was great to see and it was just awesome to see that she was so engaged in her learning with the coding and the robotics as well and connecting that to her previous learning."
Ryan Hong, Grade 7 Teacher
Watch the Full 3 Minute Video Here:
These experiences highlight a powerful trend: students who might not usually engage in STEM subjects are drawn in by the relatable and urgent theme of climate action. This thematic approach not only makes learning more accessible but also instills a sense of purpose in the next generation, encouraging them to think creatively and work towards solving some of the world's most pressing challenges.
What to Expect at ISTE 2024
This year at ISTE 2024, we’re bringing even more hands-on excitement to Booth 949. Attendees can get pick-up, build, and code with our Climate Action Kits and see firsthand how they make STEM and coding engaging and accessible. We will have a variety of interactive projects set up, demonstrating how easy it is to teach through climate action by building prototypes of real-life climate technologies.
Alongside the building and coding, booth visitors can explore our lessons. Our solution is designed to align with:
Each alignment is made possible by incorporating project-based and inquiry-based learning in each lesson, making it straightforward to integrate the kit into your curriculum in multiple ways.
Booth visitors will also have the chance to win a free trial kit and micro:bit to take home, so don’t miss out!
The Climate Action Kit Through a New Lens: Virtual Reality
We’re also thrilled to highlight the innovative work of Rohana Swihart and Dr. Paul Curtis as they bring climate education into the world of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in two separate sessions at ISTE 2024:
Empowering Sustainability Solutionaries through Inclusion, Virtual Reality, and PBL
Tuesday, June 25, 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Innovation Arcade: AR/VR Exploration Lab A
Symbiotic Spectrums: Bridging Ancient Eco-Wisdom and Emerging Digital Frontiers
Wednesday, June 26, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Poster Session in the Bluebird Ballroom Lobby, Table 9
These sessions will explore how AR and VR can enhance inclusion and engagement in project-based learning about the climate.
Join Our Journey
We’re excited to see our network of educators growing and finding creative ways to teach with the Climate Action Kit. Follow us on social media to keep up with our journey throughout the ISTE 2024 conference, whether you’re attending in person or following along from afar. If you’re at the conference, visit our booth for a chance to win trial kits and other exciting swag!
Together, let’s inspire the next generation to build a better future through STEM, coding, and climate action.
