Program Overview
Build to STEAM is a unique education program designed to introduce kids, ages 4 and up to the diverse fields of STEAM through fun lessons built around the world's most recognizable toy, LEGO. The lessons are designed to integrate fun while encouraging students to learn about the rapidly changing world and how modern science and robotics can solve real-world problems. We offer a variety of group classes for students, activities to help strengthen family connections, and one-on-one learning for children with special needs. We also offer specialized and fun classes oriented to adults.
Adding the A to STEM
STEAM education, integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, is vital as it fosters innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills essential for the modern world. By combining these disciplines, STEAM encourages creativity and collaboration, preparing students to tackle complex real-world challenges. It nurtures curiosity and a love for learning, equipping students with the adaptability needed for the ever-evolving job market. Additionally, STEAM education promotes diversity by appealing to a wide range of interests, helping to bridge gaps in traditionally underrepresented fields and fostering a more inclusive and dynamic workforce.
Learning Through Play
"Learn Through Play" with LEGO products is a dynamic component of Build to STEAM, an after-school robotics program aimed at sparking curiosity and education in young learners through engaging, hands-on activities. Utilizing the adaptable and captivating LEGO Education kits such as LEGO SPIKE Prime and LEGO SPIKE Essential. The SPIKE program is the evolution of LEGO Mindstorms which introduced the past generation to robotitcs. Our program introduces students to the basics of robotics, engineering, and coding. With a curriculum designed for various skill levels, students participate in themed projects and regular challenges, developing essential STEAM skills while also boosting creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. This method not only makes learning enjoyable and accessible but also cultivates a lasting interest in science and technology.
Becky Gorlin
Becky Gorlin is a certified teacher for 8 years and has taught 1st- 8th Grade CTE and General Education Classes. She first started introducing LEGO to her classroom to help connect with her students. This quickly evolved to using LEGO to help with hands-on, active learning. Since then she has become a LEGO Education Ambassador, giving her access to additional resources provided by LEGO. She has introduced LEGO Robotics programs to grades Kindergarten through 8th grade and started multiple successful after-school FIRST LEGO League Teams. The teams she coached have gone as far as Semi-Finals for the State of Washington and one of those teams taking home Tournament Champions for their qualifiers and top Core Values at the Semi-Finals. Becky currently teaches 1st/2nd grade in the Edmonds School District.
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Learning through play is her favorite style of teaching. Students see toys and start to play. Becky sees students practicing their problem-solving skills, learning how to work with others, being creative, as well as working on fine motor skills. All of this, while students are playing with the most recognizable toy.