Project Description:
This project is based on a core theme from the National Science standards. We wrote and received a LANL (Los Alamos National Laboratory)Foundation grant for the Taos Academy which brought two interdisciplinary teachers into the school to lead an 8 week intensive workshop focusing on that theme. Dutch Installation Designer, Dienke Nauta, and Creative Technologist, Steve Storz explored the theme of Space, Matter and Movement through hands on multidisciplinary activities. Each teacher guided the students through the process of creating objects and spaces that explored scientific and mathematical concepts. Students presented their creations to their peers school wide and explained the thought process that led to their discoveries.
STEM Concepts:
STEM Report by Karin Molton, Coordinator at Taos Academy:
Dutch Installation Engineer, Dienke Nauta, and Creative Technologist, Steve Storz offered courses beginning January 2010. Both educators guided students through the process of creating objects and spaces that teach concepts about space, matter and movement. Students presented their creations to their community and explained the thought process that led to their discoveries. As a result of their success, film production and animation classes were added to the STEMArts program in February 2010. Students utilize Taos Academy’s state-of-the-art science, media, and technology lab and instructors for production of students’ digital portfolios and final presentations. The STEMArts program fits perfectly into the philosophy and mission of Taos Academy. Our vision is to be a model 21 st-century learning community developing strong leaders who have the academic and social skills necessary to succeed in the modern world. Students who participated in the STEMArts program have shown an increase in leadership skills as well as a greater understanding of STEM concepts. According to Dmitri Calvert, an engineering teacher at Taos Academy, “The students who participated in the STEM Arts classes show a noticeable difference in their ability to understand engineering concepts.” We created and distributed a workshop quiz to students to measure what they learned (see attachment)
The Installation Art class, taught by Deinke Nauta, had a deep impact on the students who participated. There were four ninth grade students and one tenth grade student who participated. Participation in this STEM Arts class increased students’ self esteem and confidence. One student created an amazing mural in the main part of Taos Academy’s technology lab. An accompanying narrative is inspirational to all students, staff and parents in our community. The experience was transformative for this student. All students gained math skills and confidence in presenting their work.
Sponsors
This STEMArts workshop was made possible through a LANL Foundation Small Grant to Taos Center for the Arts and Taos Academy.