How staff arrange the environment can impact the way youth engage and experience science, engineering, and math learning in an out-of-school time program. Learn how to set up space and arrange materials to maximize youth involvement. Strategies from practitioners include creative use of outdoor and indoor space and use of open-ended materials. Learn how to create affordable spaces of wonder and inquiry that differ from traditional school environments.

People who are comfortable with testing and retesting are better equipped for 21st Century STEM work. OST staff and volunteers can intentionally support the testing and retesting phase of science and engineering experiences to nurture this attitude in today’s youth. Learn the basics about testing during an inquiry experience and view examples of testing from OST settings. Try a simple STEM experience that staff can use to introduce the idea of testing variables to children.

Managing active children during science and engineering projects can be challenging even for seasoned out-of-school time staff. Learn how to structure STEM experiences and space for the most positive group interactions and learning. Through the advice of experts and front line staff, this module provides resources for safe, engaging group time during STEM experiences. Planning checklists and several activity instructions are included in this module.

Children and youth are born ready to explore. Many schools and out-of-school time (OST) programs now emphasize an inquiry-based style of learning. What does it take to support OST active STEM experiences? This module includes many hands-on program ideas, information on the emerging Maker Movement, and exercises that guide facilitators as they integrate active investigations into the curriculum. This is one of 20 STEM facilitation skills that help STEM click for school-age children and youth.