Hands-on STEAM Skill Development

Preparation Phase

1. Set the Focus:Identify which STEAM skills the session will target (e.g., coding, robotics, design thinking, data analysis, etc.).

• Ensure the activity aligns with the mentee’s interests or gaps identified in prior sessions.

1. Prepare Materials and Tools:

• Gather all required materials (e.g., laptops, robotics kits, art supplies, software, etc.).
• Test any technology or tools in advance to avoid disruptions during the session.

1. Plan the Activity:

• Choose a specific hands-on activity that introduces new skills in an engaging way.
• Example Activities:
  • Build and program a simple robot using LEGO Mindstorms or Arduino.
  • Create a 3D model using TinkerCAD.
  • Conduct a simple science experiment (e.g., building a circuit or testing water pH).
  • Design a geometric pattern using art and math principles.

1. Define Clear Objectives:

• Example: By the end of this session, the mentee will learn the basics of programming sensors or create a prototype model.

Session Execution

1. Welcome and Introduction (5-10 minutes)

• Icebreaker: Start with a friendly conversation to ease into the session.
• Explain the Goal:
  • “Today, we’ll be trying out a new activity that introduces [specific skill]. This is an opportunity to explore something new and have fun while learning.”
• Encourage a Growth Mindset:
  • Remind them that trying and making mistakes is part of the learning process.

2. Introduction to the Activity (10-15 minutes)

• Explain the Activity:
  • Provide an overview of what they’ll be doing, ensuring the mentee understands the goal.
  • Example: “We’ll be programming this robot to follow a line on the ground using its sensors.”
• Demonstrate the Basics:
  • Show a quick example or demo to build familiarity with the tools or concepts.
  • Allow time for questions.

3. Hands-On Activity (30-45 minutes)

1. Engage in the Task:

• Guide the mentee as they perform the activity, offering support as needed.
• Let them take the lead to foster independence and problem-solving.

1. Encourage Experimentation:

• Motivate the mentee to try variations or explore creative solutions.
  • Example: “What happens if we change the code here?” or “Can we make the design more efficient?”

1. Facilitate Reflection During the Task:

• Ask questions to deepen their engagement:
  • “What do you think this part does?”
  • “Why do you think this step is important?”

1. Overcome Challenges:

• Help troubleshoot any issues, but allow them to try solving problems on their own first.

4. Showcase and Discuss Results (10-15 minutes)

• Review the Outcome:
  • Celebrate what they’ve created or learned, regardless of how “successful” the activity was.
  • Example: “You built and programmed a robot for the first time—how does that feel?”
• Reflect on the Experience:
  • Ask questions like:
    • “What did you enjoy most about this activity?”
    • “What part did you find challenging?”
    • “Is this something you’d like to explore more?”
  • Tie Back to STEAM Careers:
    • Connect the activity to real-world applications.
    • Example: “This skill is used by engineers designing autonomous vehicles.”

5. Wrap-Up and Next Steps (5-10 minutes)

1. Summarize Key Takeaways:

• Highlight the new skills or knowledge they gained.
• Example: “You learned how to use sensors in programming today. That’s a foundational skill in robotics.”

1. Discuss Future Activities:

• Suggest related activities or challenges they could try next.
• Example: “Next time, we could design a maze for the robot to navigate.”

1. Encourage Practice:

• Provide resources (e.g., tutorials, kits, software links) for practicing at home or school.

Post-Session Follow-Up

1. Document Progress:

• Record notes about what went well, challenges faced, and the mentee’s reflections.

1. Prepare for the Next Session:

• Plan follow-up activities that build on today’s learning.

1. Share Feedback:

• Provide constructive feedback and encouragement via email or a shared platform.