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STEAM Newsletter – Wednesday, January 1, 2025
STEAM Newsletter Vol. 49
Happy New Year and Welcome 2025!
As we begin a new calendar year, we welcome new learning opportunities to share with students and educators across Illinois. We hope that the resources shared in this newsletter provide ideas for your work in STEAM education. We appreciate feedback on ways that we can make our contributions more helpful to you. You can share ideas with us through the multiple avenues provided at the end of this newsletter.
On December 7, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) participated in High-Tech CHI as part of the celebration for Computer Science Education Week in Chicago. The sold-out day-long event focused on introducing K-14 students to new and innovative technology. As part of the celebration, DoIT hosted the Illinois Innovation Design Challenge to invite students to learn how to tackle real-world opportunities within state government. Students engaged in discussions regarding technology integration and offered innovative solutions. Thanks for inspiring new ideas!
Let off some STEAM with these fun activities!
Recent News on STEAM
"Over the summer, as part of the Open Quantum Initiative (OQI) Undergraduate Fellowship, 17 undergraduate students participated in quantum-science research projects hosted at multiple institutions across the Midwest.
The OQI is a group of researchers, educators and leaders in the Chicago Quantum Exchange that champions diversity, equity and inclusion in quantum information science (QIS). The goal of the OQI Fellowship is to expand the quantum workforce into a more diverse and inclusive community by helping undergraduate students from a broad variety of backgrounds gain hands-on experience.
Four OQI undergraduates spent their summer at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory developing QIS technologies. Three of the students contributed specifically to research at Q-NEXT, a DOE National Quantum Information Science Research Center led by Argonne."
"There’s something exhilarating about tackling a problem for which there is no manual. You get to explore the problem’s subtleties, perfect the procedure and write the playbook.
Six undergraduates at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) have been writing the playbook for a process that will help accelerate the creation of materials that host qubits — the fundamental units of quantum information — specifically, membranes made of diamond.
The development of diamond membranes for quantum technologies is an important area of research at Q-NEXT, a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Quantum Information Science Research Center led by DOE’s Argonne National Laboratory. During the students’ 10-week internship at Argonne, they contributed to Q-NEXT by writing software to automate one of the more intensively manual parts of diamond-membrane production."
"Since the inception of the UChicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, ongoing research has looked at the potential of artificial intelligence to develop artificial proteins, biocompatible electronics and other new technologies.
As AI technology has advanced, so have UChicago’s innovations.
In addition to using AI, UChicago PME researchers are also advancing the technology, charting new educational pathways for AI-assisted learning and, as UChicago PME Prof. Supratik Guha recently outlined for The Economic Times, building a roadmap for quantum computing to cut AI’s carbon impact.
UChicago PME Prof. Andrew Ferguson said AI is rapidly evolving to become a commodity tool in scientific inquiry.
“Nobody uses a slide rule anymore,” Ferguson said. “You use calculators or microcomputers. In the same way, AI is now becoming a standard tool for doing science.”"
"While the sleuths on popular forensic crime shows make solving a case with science look easier than it actually is, a researcher at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is refining those methods using chemical analysis of local tap waters.
Chris Stantis, assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology, helped lead a recent survey and analysis of tap water from 30 cities across the U.S. The resulting paper, which compares the variability of oxygen-stable isotopes in the various samples, recently was published in the journal PLOS One.
Because the body’s oxygen isotopes signify the water the person drinks when forming tissues, those telltale signs have long been to study migration patterns in archeological studies and increasingly with success in forensic identification investigations. But researchers wanted to examine how much variation exists in such isotopic values in any given place, which could significantly impact the accuracy of such tests.
Analyzing more than 4,000 samples and bringing her expertise in statistical analysis to bear, Stantis examined how variable oxygen-stable isotope values were in tap water samples from diverse locations. Nailing down those variations could in turn help investigators identify the body of a missing person by indicating where that person grew up."
Upcoming Events
Wed. Jan. 1 | 7 am - 6 pm | Illinois State Parks
“Jump into the New Year with a hike! What better way to start the new year than enjoying nature with friends on the first day of the year! Enjoy a new park, a new activity or just share your old favorites with friends and the public.
First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of hikes will be organized in all 50 states. Kids and adults across America will be participating in First Day Hikes, getting their hearts pumping and enjoying the beauty of a state park. Last year nearly 55,000 people rang in the New Year, collectively hiking over 133,000 miles throughout the country!
You are invited to savor the beauty of Illinois state park’s natural resources on the first day of 2025, so you may be inspired to take advantage of these local treasures throughout the year.
Tuesday Evenings | Jan. 7 – Mar. 25 | 6 pm – 9 pm | Macon County Extension Office | Register
“Be an environmental steward and become a Master Naturalist!
The Illinois Master Naturalist Program is a volunteer training program offered by University of Illinois Extension. This training program trains and educates adult volunteers to effectively share natural resource information and support environmental conservation and restoration efforts in their communities. We all share the responsibility to protect our local natural resources to ensure a sustainable future. Through partnerships with local agencies, University of Illinois Extension delivers science-based educational opportunities, fostering connections between people and nature and promoting engaged environmental stewardship.
Throughout the 12-week program, participants gain knowledge and have a better understanding of the following topics:
Geology, Soils, Weather & Climate, Wetlands, Understanding the Natural World, Ethics, Entomology, Prairie, Botany, Forests, Rivers & Streams, Natural Divisions, Ornithology, Herpetology & Mammalogy.
As part of the hands-on learning process, participants go on field trips throughout Illinois.
Previously visited sites include Great River Museum, Pere Marquette State Park, Emiquon Nature Conservancy, Rock Springs Nature Center.
Once interns have graduated from the 12-week course they are given two years to accumulate 60 volunteer hours to become a certified Master Naturalist. Once certified, 30 volunteer hours and 10 continuing education hours are required annually to maintain certification.”
Junior Historian Art Contest | Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Entries must be postmarked by Friday, January 10, 2025
“Every year, Illinois students, grades K-12, are invited to participate in an annual Art Contest sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Board of Education. This exciting collaboration creates more visibility for young Illinois artists and showcases their talent while reinforcing the importance of the arts in the growth and development of all students.
Click here for this year's contest flyer.
We invite Illinois students across four entry levels (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12) to participate. After entries are received, a panel of seasoned judges evaluate artwork on creativity and general design before selecting the finalists and runners-up in each category. All winners and runners-up have their work displayed by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. One student's work will be chosen by the judges as "Best in Show" and featured on a poster to celebrate the arts during Illinois Arts Education Week during the week of March 10-14, 2025.
2025 Contest
This year's theme is "A Touch of Art!" The world is a vibrant tapestry of shapes, colors, and textures, where art can be discovered in the most unexpected places. By taking a moment to truly observe the details around us, we unlock new perspectives and experiences, each unique to how we engage our senses with the world. As you embark on your creative journey, we invite you to explore the interplay of textures and forms, crafting a piece that either evokes a sense of touch or brings it to life through its design.
Entries must be postmarked by Friday, January 10, 2025.
Tue. Jan. 14 | 10 am – 12 pm | ROE 51: Menard/Sangamon, 2201 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield
“You are invited to an open forum discussion on current educational technology topics and trends. This networking opportunity is open to all educational technology professionals, including technology directors, instructional technology coaches, and any other roles interested in exploring the present landscape of technology in our schools.
A brief presentation from may start us off; however, most of the meeting will be dedicated to participant-led conversation, allowing attendees to share their experiences and challenges with the group.
We look forward to your valuable insights and contributions.”
Sat. Jan. 18 | 9 am – 3 pm | The Grove, Glenview | Register
“Learn all about the winter birds that live in Illinois-from songbirds to birds of prey. Participants will learn what adaptations birds have to make them so successful to withstand the harsh Illinois winters. Appropriate for educators in grades K-4, but educators for all grade levels welcome but may need to adapt the activities and resources to be appropriate for older students. Please make sure to dress for the weather, as we will be going on the trails to look for signs of birds in the winter. Supplemental resources will be provided. Professional Development Hours are available. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.”
Fri. Jan. 24 | 9 am – 4 pm | Astroth Community Education Center (ACEC), Heartland Community College, Normal, IL
"This one-day interdisciplinary conference will equip PK-12 educators to maximize student success through engaged learning for students and staff. Breakout sessions with expert guest speakers, district and school staff, and MTSS and NIU STEAM coaches will provide practical examples, actionable strategies, networking opportunities and lessons learned.
Expect to walk away with ideas and tools to use in your classroom right away!
Participants can earn up to 7 ISBE Professional Development Credit Hours.
Keynote
Engaged Learning: Beyond the Definition
presented by:
Dr. Lori Hensold, Director of IL-MTSS Network
Dr. Kristin Brynteson, Director of NIU STEAM
Attendees will
This conference will be of interest to classroom teachers, instructional coaches, interventionists, support staff and school administrators who want to learn more about the impacts of engaged learning through STEAM and MTSS. Come join us if you are interested in learning more about:
- Successful evidence-based practices in STEAM and MTSS.
- Practical examples and stories from district and school leaders.
- Innovations in engaged learning.
- Successful ways to use STEAM strategies to promote college and career readiness.
- Practical application in schools and networking with other educators."
Sat. Jan. 25 | 9 am – 3 pm | Illinois Department of Natural Resources | Register
“Explore Coyote Track interactive visualization tool. This online site centers around coyote ecology and behavior related to data collected from radio-collared coyotes in urban and rural areas of Illinois. Using real data, this workshop will guide participants through the visualization data tool and standard-based lessons that support the unit. Participants will learn about how and why scientists are studying coyotes in Illinois including learning about telemetry and how the information is gathered. The workshop is for teachers of Illinois high school and middle school students. Professional Development Hours are available. Sponsored by the IDNR, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.”
“AI isn’t making our current classrooms obsolete. But if we harness this new tool for learning now, we can future-proof our classrooms and better prepare our students for many evolving learning paths ahead.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence in education with this workshop designed for practicing educators. From AI’s roots to today’s cutting-edge developments in generative AI, we’ll start by exploring a broad overview of AI’s history and introduce you to many fundamental AI concepts.
From there, we’ll explore where AI and education meet, including key AI literacy principles and potential application in a classroom environment. You’ll even gain some hands-on experience with current AI tools that can streamline lesson creation and other day-to-day teaching tasks.
Join us for an enlightening and engaging exploration of AI’s growing influence in education and the broader world.”
“Increased reliance on technology to empower learning means increased risk.
At SecurED Schools, you can prepare your institution to face that risk head on.
At this online summit, join technology professionals and school leaders from across the Midwest to take part in panel discussions and hands-on demonstrations led by local and national cybersecurity experts. During peer-led presentations, you and your technology team will also discover timely strategies, tools, and best practices – all tailored to the unique needs of K-12 networks and data.
No matter where you are in your cybersecurity journey, SecurED Schools is the place to start on the next step.”
Mon. Feb. 17 - Wed. Feb 19 | Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel | Register
"IDEAcon isn't just a conference; IDEAcon is an experience.
For three days, educators become immersed in a community of leaders and learners. Attendees enjoy a welcoming environment as they create their own journey full of breakout sessions, exhibit hall demos, hands-on activities, thought leader talks, networking opportunities and more. Go at your own pace, take the time to discover, and relish the opportunity to learn, share, and play. IDEAcon is where you'll find your next learning adventure. "
Educator's Corner
STEAM resources for in-person, hybrid, remote learning, and professional development
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: For Educators
- Resource Library | Arts Education Partnership
- Empowering Young Minds: The Impact of Invention Education in K-12 Classrooms | National Education Association
- Educator Resources | Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Professional Development | Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
STEAM Resources Spotlight
"The Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing Program (GOMO) is dedicated to providing and supporting global ocean observations and informing society about the ocean’s role in environmental change. This work is supported by a wide range of communication, outreach, education, and capacity building efforts informed by and aligned with our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
The GOMO team and our partners work with a range of audiences, including K-16 students and educators, early career ocean professionals, and stakeholders and rights-holders to raise awareness and support the next generation of ocean observers and researchers."
"Poetry Out Loud encourages students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary history and contemporary life.
Poetry Out Loud uses a pyramid structure that starts at the classroom level. Students advance to a school-wide competition, through a regional contest, to State Finals, and ultimately to the National Finals.
Since 2005, Poetry Out Loud has grown to reach more than 3 million students and 50,000 teachers from 10,000 schools in every state, Washington, DC, the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
Poetry Out Loud provides resources and materials to assist teachers in implementing the program in their schools. Awards are available at the state and national level.
While teachers, students, and poetry lovers everywhere can use the Poetry Out Loud website and its accompanying educational materials to organize their own recitation contests, the official contest is limited to the programs run by each state's Arts Agency. Teachers can review the How to Participate page to learn more about the program."
"With Learning Blade you can easily integrate STEM, CS, and CTE concepts into a child’s education. Appropriate for grades 5-9, Learning Blade provides 13 “missions” that contextualize learning and engage all students, including underrepresented and special populations, while reinforcing academic standards. Each of our lessons and resources is indexed so you can see what state standards are being met.
With over 100 careers and technologies explored in more than 400 lessons in the specific contexts of science, math, English and social studies included, Learning Blade provides the perfect supplemental materials to integrate STEM, CS, and CTE into core courses or be used as a stand alone program (implemented before school, after school, through the counselors office, and more)."
Link for Illinois educators to sign up for their free accounts
Learning Blade - a supplemental resource designed to boost STEM, Computer Science, and CTE career awareness - is available to all Illinois educators and students at no cost! Training and support are provided!
For questions or to request a demonstration, email colleen.ross@edynamiclearning.com.
This opportunity is fully funded through a collaboration of the Maritime Industrial Base and BlueForge Alliance.
“IMSA’s Center for Teaching and Learning provides NGSS-aligned professional development trainings and model lessons for educators and students. Customized learning experiences for your team, school, or district engage educators in constructing activities that support K-5 Next Generation Science Standards, identifying gaps in current science curricula, and creating lessons in collaboration with IMSA specialists and colleagues. Our team is available to host in-person professional development at IMSA, visit local schools, or provide consultation online.”
The 'A' in STEAM
"Arts foster scientific success" -Dr. Temple Grandin
This series is dedicated to showing how art and creativity play a crucial role in our society within the STEM fields.
A basket in progress in Frey’s studio, 2023 [Photo by Jared Lank (Mi’kmaq)]
"A few years back, memes circled the internet featuring words in foreign languages that didn’t have a direct English translation.
One that stuck with me was the German word Waldeinsamkeit, the feeling of being alone in the forest. It conjures a sense of calm, contemplation, and deep connection with nature.
Waldeinsamkeit might be considered a sort of throughline in the art of Jeremy Frey, a Passamaquoddy basketmaker. He literally begins his work by walking through Maine’s forests looking for ash trees and assessing whether they have the right qualities for making baskets. He has to know these trees inside and out, anticipating which ones might be hiding crooked grains, knots, or other irregularities. Once he’s selected and harvested a tree, he engages in the painstaking labor of processing the timber: stripping the bark from the trunk, rhythmically pounding the log with the back of an axe to separate the growth rings, and splitting the fibrous layers into thinner and thinner strips. Is there a more intimate or intense way of coming to know a tree than disassembling it with your bare hands?
To prepare the wood for weaving, Frey slices it into narrow widths—some as thin as 1/32 of an inch—using gauge cutters he made from sharpened steel clock springs. Sometimes he leaves the wood its natural blond color; more often, he dyes the fibers a luminous array of hues. Finally, he engages in the methodical, repetitive, and solitary act of weaving—over, under, over, under—basically reconstituting the fragments of tree trunks over a wooden mold that he turned on a lathe. His hands spend months completing one of his elegant and intricate baskets, providing his mind ample time to muse on and mull over his next creation. Each step of Frey’s art is a communion with wood as he transforms it from one sublime state of being to another."
Please submit STEAM ideas, comments, or questions using our contact us form.
Any links being provided are for educational purpose use only; they do not constitute an endorsement, approval, affiliation, sponsorship, or partnership by the State of Illinois, Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) of any products, services or opinions of any of the linked entities. The State of Illinois bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content. The State of Illinois reserves the right to add or remove the links provided at any time without notice in its sole discretion and shall not be obliged to give a reason for doing so.