Benefits of STEAM in a nature-based learning environment

STEAM is a bit of a buzzword in education at the moment—and we’re here for it. In fact, we’ve always embraced multidisciplinary learning models at Woodbury Boston for the countless benefits it brings to our students. Here’s how we’re using STEAM projects to turn our students into real-life designers and project managers on an upcoming campus building project!

what is steam education?

STEAM (which used to be called STEM) stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Instead of studying each subject in 40-minute intervals (which is difficult and draining for almost everyone), STEAM is an integrated learning experience.

A multidisciplinary approach breaks down barriers between learning areas, which is great for students. That’s because it helps your child understand how concepts are interconnected as well as why they’re being asked to learn them.

Thanks to smart project design, STEAM allows your child to explore, experiment, and engage with the world around them—in a tangible, hands-on way.

WHAT we’re working on

With small numbers and lots of space, we’re lucky to be able to include the whole school in our latest STEAM project. From Pre-Primary to Year 6, everyone is on board to develop an outdoor classroom for our school. Learn more about the process in this article. 

benefits of nature-based steam

Multidisciplinary learning has stacks of benefits, starting with the fact that it mimics real-life problems. Think about it: when was the last time you (as a grown up) had to solve an algebra problem in isolation?

Twenty-first century problems demand a collaborative approach as opposed to the regurgitation of rote learning—and it makes our kids happy, too. Here’s what your child will love about STEAM education.

Problem solving

Coming up with hands-on solutions to real world problems helps your child approach challenges with creativity, logic, and open-minded innovation. 

Teamwork and collaboration

When they put their heads together to solve a tricky problem, children learn to respect diverse perspectives and contribute positively to group dynamics. 

Resilience

Real-life problem solving can be tricky—but setbacks and failures are a normal part of the experimentation process. Learning to overcome obstacles gives your child the chance to learn from experience and try again. 

Technological literacy

STEAM isn’t all about robots! Our students love using various tools, software, and technologies to get to the bottom of tricky problems. 

Love of learning

STEAM education gives every child a chance to shine—which makes the learning process more exciting and meaningful. This positive association with learning can help your child become a life-long learner with a natural curiosity for exploration. 

Real life connection

STEAM is all about relevant, real-world problems. Taking learning off the page and making it relevant boosts motivation and makes learning much more interesting.    

Environmental awareness

At Woodbury Boston, we base STEAM activities on sustainability and fostering respect for our natural environment. This helps your child become an environmentally conscious, caring citizen.  

Multidisciplinary or bust!

Traditional, subject-based learning is a thing of the past. And solving real-life problems is fun! We’re proud of our holistic approach to learning, which helps your child develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them—and prepares them to tackle future challenges with confidence and creativity. 

The Woodbury Boston way

If you’d like to learn more about how your child will learn at Woodbury Boston, why not book a tour? Or explore the five educational models that make up our teaching style, our philosophy on educating the Whole Child, and our innovative Out & About program.


 

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Woodbury Boston Primary School is a progressive independent school nestled in the bush between Denmark and Albany WA. We know that children learn best when they’re happy and having fun. With a strong focus on community, respect, independence and nature-based teaching, our students learn the Western Australian Curriculum and so much more. For more information or to book a personal tour, please ring 9845 1185.

Martha Barnard-Rae