AGIS Conference 2024 Potsdam

Description: This interactive workshop is designed to equip early years and elementary educators with the tools and knowledge to implement the FIRST LEGO League Explore program in their classrooms. Participants will engage in hands-on activities using LEGO kits to explore the fundamentals of this globally recognized STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiative. Through collaborative play and creative storytelling, educators will discover innovative methods to inspire their students' curiosity, enhance problem-solving skills, and foster teamwork.
The session will begin with a brief overview of the FIRST LEGO League Explore program, highlighting its objectives and impact on young learners' development. Teachers will then participate in a guided LEGO building activity, demonstrating how to incorporate narrative techniques to make STEM concepts accessible and engaging for children. Facilitators will offer strategies for integrating these activities into the curriculum, addressing classroom management, and assessing students' learning in a fun and inclusive environment.
Aims:

• To introduce educators to the FIRST LEGO League Explore program and its potential to transform STEM education.
• To provide hands-on experience with LEGO building and storytelling as effective teaching methods.
• To empower teachers with creative approaches for engaging young learners in STEM learning.

This workshop promises to be an inspiring introduction to the world of LEGO-based learning, offering teachers new perspectives on integrating STEM education into early childhood and elementary classrooms.
Outcome(s): 
Attendees will come away with:

• A foundational understanding of the FIRST LEGO League Explore program and its benefits.
• Practical experience in using LEGO as an educational tool to teach STEM concepts through storytelling.
• Strategies for implementing engaging and interactive STEM activities in their classrooms.
• Resources and ideas for creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment that encourages exploration and innovation.

Proper breathing techniques and movement can greatly benefit students’ attention, focus and learning. In this session we will have a brief overview of the science behind breathwork and movement, and how it can benefit students in a school setting, or anywhere! Kristine is a level 1 SOMA Breath instructor and will provide some activities to get you moving and breathing!