Learn how to sort, store, and access your STEM resources easily and efficiently with these tips and tools for K-12 educators.

I highlighted how my students were engaged and excited about STEM on my library blog and also on Twitter. I posted pictures and videos showing how my students learned to code, even as they faced initial challenges. I awarded a Certificate of Achievement to students who completed each coding unit and displayed them on the bulletin board. Furthermore, I shared pictures of my students holding the certificates on my school library blog. This way, my students received recognition for their accomplishments in coding.

How do you organize STEM resources?

As a K-12 educator, you know the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education for preparing your students for the future. But how do you organize all the resources you need to plan and deliver engaging and effective STEM lessons? In this article, we will share some tips and tools to help you sort, store, and access your STEM resources easily and efficiently.

1 Categorize your resources

One of the first steps to organize your STEM resources is to categorize them according to different criteria, such as subject, grade level, topic, format, or source. This will help you find what you need quickly and avoid duplication or confusion. You can use digital tools, such as folders, tags, bookmarks, or spreadsheets, to create and manage your categories. You can also use physical tools, such as bins, labels, or binders, to organize your printed or tangible resources.

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I agree with you. In my experience, it's beneficial to attach a barcode label to each physical STEM kit, such as a Lego box, coding robots, an electric circuit kit, etc., allowing them to be checked out at the school library, similar to books. This way, STEM resources can be managed like items in the school library's collection.

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2 Use online platforms

Another way to organize your STEM resources is to use online platforms that offer curated collections of high-quality and relevant STEM content and activities. Some examples of these platforms are STEMscopes, Discovery Education, and PBS Learning Media. These platforms allow you to browse, search, filter, and save your favorite resources, as well as access lesson plans, assessments, and professional development opportunities. You can also share your resources with other educators and collaborate on STEM projects.

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I curated the online resources and posted them on my school library website to share with teachers in my school district. My students can also easily access these resources by clicking on the links on our school's website

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3 Create a portfolio

A third way to organize your STEM resources is to create a portfolio that showcases your work and achievements in STEM education. A portfolio can help you reflect on your practice, document your growth, and demonstrate your impact. You can use a website, a blog, or an e-portfolio tool, such as Seesaw or Google Sites, to create and update your portfolio. You can include samples of your STEM lessons, projects, assessments, feedback, and awards, as well as links to your online platforms and resources.

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4 Review and update your resources

A fourth way to organize your STEM resources is to review and update them regularly. This will help you keep your resources current, relevant, and aligned with the standards and best practices of STEM education. You can use a calendar, a checklist, or a reminder system to schedule and track your review and update process. You can also seek feedback from your students, colleagues, or experts to improve your resources and identify any gaps or needs.

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5 Share and network with others

A fifth way to organize your STEM resources is to share and network with others who are interested in or involved in STEM education. This will help you expand your knowledge, learn new ideas, and discover new resources. You can use social media, such as Twitter or Facebook, to follow and join STEM-related groups, hashtags, or chats. You can also use online communities, such as Edutopia or TeachEngineering, to connect and collaborate with other STEM educators and professionals.

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I follow STEM educators on Twitter who are highly active in sharing their projects online, and I learn from their posts. Additionally, I share on Twitter how students are engaged in STEM education, including coding, to ensure that my school community is aware of the exciting work my students are doing in the field of STEM education.

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6 Enjoy and celebrate your resources

A sixth way to organize your STEM resources is to enjoy and celebrate them. This will help you appreciate your efforts, achievements, and contributions to STEM education. You can use newsletters, blogs, podcasts, or videos to showcase your resources and share your stories and insights with your students, parents, colleagues, or the wider audience. You can also use rewards, certificates, badges, or stickers to acknowledge and motivate yourself and your students for your STEM work.

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I highlighted how my students were engaged and excited about STEM on my library blog and also on Twitter. I posted pictures and videos showing how my students learned to code, even as they faced initial challenges. I awarded a Certificate of Achievement to students who completed each coding unit and displayed them on the bulletin board. Furthermore, I shared pictures of my students holding the certificates on my school library blog. This way, my students received recognition for their accomplishments in coding.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you organize STEM resources?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Categorize your resources

2 Use online platforms

3 Create a portfolio

4 Review and update your resources

5 Share and network with others

6 Enjoy and celebrate your resources

7 Here’s what else to consider

K-12 Education

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How do you organize STEM resources?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Categorize your resources

2 Use online platforms

3 Create a portfolio

4 Review and update your resources

5 Share and network with others

6 Enjoy and celebrate your resources

7 Here’s what else to consider

K-12 Education

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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