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STEAM Newsletter – Wednesday, November 1, 2023
STEAM Newsletter Vol. 35
Exciting Opportunities in Tech : CSEdWeek 2023 and Illinois Innovation Challenge
The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology will participate in High-Tech CHI (registration link: https://hightechchi.eventbrite.com), a day-long event focused on exposing K-14 students to new and innovative technology. This event will be part of the Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek) celebrations taking place across the globe and will be hosted at Google, 320 N Morgan St Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60607 from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm on December 9, 2023.
In a dynamic showcase of collaboration, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) will host the Illinois Innovation Challenge at High-Tech CHI. This competition invites students to propose ingenious solutions to real-world opportunities within state government, fostering a culture of innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. Winning projects will be highlighted on the DoIT STEAM website and DoIT Newsletter.
DoIT will host a webinar to provide an overview of the competition and answer questions from 4pm to 5pm on Monday, November 13, 2023. The link to join the webinar will be posted on the DoIT STEAM website.
Computer Science Education Week is being celebrated December 4-10, 2023 across the world as a way to promote computer science across the enterprise with students, families, educators, businesses, and communities. During this week, educators and families are encouraged to organize an Hour of Code to recognize the importance of inspiring students of all ages to better understand computer science and coding concepts. Resources, tutorials, and promotional ideas can be accessed through the Hour of Code and CSEdWeek websites to help guide participation across the curriculum.
Let off some STEAM with these fun activities!
Recent News on STEAM
Two Tech Hubs Designated in Illinois: IFIB and Bloch Tech Hub
"The Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Hub (iFAB) is one of 31 newly designated Tech Hubs designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration to accelerate regional innovation and growth. Biomanufacturing converts crops like corn and soybeans into a wide range of high-value commodities, creating more market stability and growth in bio-based businesses. While the U.S. demand and potential are great, the infrastructure is lacking. iFAB is poised to respond by growing Illinois bioprocessing into a best-in-the-world hub for fermentation manufacturing. Learn more about opportunities for growth."
“The Chicago region has been named an official US Regional and Innovation Technology Hub for quantum technologies by the Biden-Harris administration, a designation that opens the door to new federal funding and recognizes the growing strength of an ecosystem poised to become the heart of the nation’s quantum economy. The Bloch Tech Hub (pronounced “block”), a coalition of industry, academic, government, and nonprofit stakeholders led by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, was one of 31 designees from nearly 400 applications across the country."
"From artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to new cross-institute collaborations and funding concepts, NIEHS is continually seeking a deeper understanding of precisely how the environment affects our health. These and other topics were presented at the National Advisory Environmental Health Sciences Council (NAEHSC) meeting Sept. 12-13." Credits: by Jennifer Harker
"American cities and towns started switching their streetlights from sodium lamps to LEDs about 15 years ago, which changed the color of many nighttime roads from yellowish orange to bright white. But lately an odd new nocturnal color has been spotted across the nation—and the globe. Anecdotal reports of purple-looking streetlights have been popping up since early 2021 in states including Florida, Utah, Texas and Massachusetts, as well as in Canada and Ireland." Credits: by Karen Kwon
"We're looking forward to International Education Week (IEW) 2023, November 13-17! IEW is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education is part of our efforts to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences.
This year’s theme, “The Future Is …” explores the many ways that international education is driving us into the future."
Colleges and universities across Illinois will celebrate IEW with various programs. Celebrations include activities at Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and University of Illinois at Springfield. Explore the benefits of international educational opportunities!
"NOAA scientists investigating the stratosphere have found that in addition to meteoric ‘space dust,’ the atmosphere more than seven miles above the surface is peppered with particles containing a variety of metals from satellites and spent rocket boosters vaporized by the intense heat of re-entry."
Upcoming Events
Wed. Nov 1 - Fri. Nov 3 | Bank of Springfield Center, Springfield, IL
“Education and technology leaders throughout Illinois gather in central Illinois to learn, collaborate, and connect. Sessions focus on technology integration strategies, engaging instructional practices, digital tools and resources, and emerging trends. With over 600 attendees, 120+ sessions and workshops, and 70+ vendors, IETC offers unique and intimate learning opportunities.
IETC is produced by the Learning Technology Center and is recognized as one of the midwest’s most influential education technology conferences. It serves as an important learning opportunity for teachers, instructional coaches, library and media specialists, administrators, and IT leaders and highlights a combination of local and national experts. Attracting approximately 600 attendees, the event is held annually in November at the BOS Center in Springfield.”
Sat. Nov 4 | 1 pm - 4 pm | Urbana Free Library, Busey Mills Reading Room
"Join us to celebrate the launch of the first publicly accessible quantum network in the nation. The Urbana Free Library is the first connection to what will be a larger network across Champaign-Urbana and the region.
See for yourself how quantum particles can "affect" each other no matter the distance between them, through a live demonstration of the experiment for which the Nobel Prize in physics was awarded in 2022. Come on over, do some science, and help us build technologies of the future. There will be activities for all ages from kids to adults. Refreshments will be provided throughout."
Mon. Nov 6 | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm | Online
“Artificial intelligence is here, and unlike what you’ve seen in the movies, AI isn’t coming to destroy humans – it’s coming to disrupt our classrooms. Should educators be afraid, excited, or both? Can educators embrace AI’s potential while ensuring their students still learn the value of creating original work?
Join us as we cut through the AI buzz and examine the implications of artificial intelligence in an education setting. In particular, we’ll focus on how recently released and forthcoming AI tools could impact how students learn and create going forward.”
Tue. Nov 7 | 4 pm - 5 pm | Online
Share or Beware, The STEM Edition: Sorting Science Fact from Fiction
"Headline-catching tech innovation and bold research findings define the STEM fields. But the speed of the news cycle can make it hard to separate new science facts from oversimplification, sensationalization, and straight-up misinformation.
In this interactive edWebinar, learn how to identify the signs of spotty science reporting, then practice identifying and evaluating credible sources using pro fact-checking strategies. We’ll also play our favorite game, Share or Beware, a free, virtual game from KQED. Educators will leave with ideas, teaching tips, and ready-to-use resources for STEM classrooms and any learning environment that uses current events and informational media.
This edWebinar will be of interest to K-12 teachers, especially those teaching science, STEM, or STEAM, and librarians. There will be time for questions at the end of the presentation."
Wed. Nov 8 | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm | Online
"Join Skill Struck for this #WednesdayWebinar to explore the exciting possibilities of using AI to revolutionize education. Discover how AI technologies can personalize learning experiences, automate busy work, and improve educational outcomes.
Participants will collaborate through hands-on learning experiences as they explore our new AI platform Chat for Schools and gain valuable resources to utilize in their classrooms and district overall. Let's unlock the potential of AI to transform the way we teach and learn!
Illinois educators can earn 1 PDH for attending this webinar live."
Mon. Nov 13 | 9 am - 11 am | Online
“Searching for more meaningful ways to integrate 3D printing in the classroom? Join us to explore the limitless potential of 3D printing and how it can be harnessed to address real-world issues and foster positive change within our schools, neighborhoods, and beyond.
Participants will delve into the principles of 3D printing, its applications, and the ways it can be leveraged to instill a sense of community responsibility among students. Our students can solve real-world problems at their schools, design prototypes to solve significant global problems, and even build prosthetics for people in need. With an emphasis on social impact, this workshop aims to foster an enduring commitment to serving the greater good and nurturing a compassionate school community.
Let’s unleash the transformative power of 3D printing technology to create a brighter future for our school communities and beyond.”
Wed. Nov 15 | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm | Online
“Calling all K-12 computer science and STEM educators! Join your peers from across the state each month for an informative, engagement-rich networking meeting centered on topics that matter most to you.
Hosted by CS & STEM Program Director Sarah Phelps, each month’s networking meeting is a place where participants can:
- Learn about new resources
- Ask questions
- Share experiences
- Expand their CS and STEM professional network
Teachers, administrators, and curriculum stakeholders are invited to attend, as well CS & STEM educators of all experience levels and at all grade levels. Whether you’re just starting out or interested in taking your district’s CS & STEM program to the next level, this networking group will help you achieve your goals!”
Thu. Nov 16 | 7 pm | Online
“Educators will explore advancements in AI and its application in the world of education, with a focus on supporting students with diverse learning needs. The landscape of AI has expanded exponentially, offering adaptive technologies such as text-to-speech, speech-to-text, AI tutoring, and predictive text functionality, among others. These tools can revolutionize the learning experience for students with disabilities, providing them with personalized pathways to understand and engage with the content they are studying. Participants will explore AI and accessibility, discover and experience AI-enabled technologies, and discuss ethics and responsible use.”
Thu. Nov 16 | 9 am - 12 pm | Online
“Join us as we delve into the fascinating realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and its incredible potential in education. This workshop offers educators a comprehensive exploration of AI’s fundamentals, advantages, and limitations, along with invaluable insights into leveraging AI tools to elevate teaching and learning experiences in the classroom.
In addition, participants will have the opportunity to acquaint themselves with ChatGPT3, discovering its impressive capabilities and recognizing the boundaries it operates within. This groundbreaking, state-of-the-art language model will be showcased as a powerful tool for generating captivating and innovative educational content.”
Mon. Nov 27 | 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm | Online
Using Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Elementary Classrooms
“Your classroom could use a little AI magic! Join us to explore how artificial intelligence tools can enhance learning in your elementary classroom by personalizing learning, automating tasks, and creating engaging learning experiences.”
Tue. Nov 28 | 5:45 pm - 7:45 pm | Online
Europa: Jupiter’s Habitable Moon? A Grand Tour of the Solar System
“Jupiter’s satellite Europa almost certainly hides a global saltwater ocean beneath its icy surface and may be the most plausible world in our solar system to host life beyond Earth. NASA’s Europa Clipper mission is scheduled to launch in October 2024 to visit this moon. Samuel Howell, project staff scientist on the Europa Clipper mission, discusses Europa and the plans to explore it."
Wed. Nov 29 | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm | Online
“Tomorrow’s computer science engineers and innovators are in your classroom today. With coding tutorials and activities from Girls Who Code, you can help them learn CS basics while teaching them to value an inclusive STEM culture, both in school and in a future career.
Join us to learn more about Girls Who Code, including how their free CS programming can help support girls and non-binary students in your class toward positive, long-term outcomes in STEM fields. We’ll also explore how these same resources can help foster social-emotional development, both for these students and for all students passionate about becoming tomorrow’s scientific problem-solvers.
Illinois educators who register here and attend live through Streamyard can earn 1.0 PD credit.”
Mon. Dec 4 | 6 pm - 7 pm | Online
"Join us on Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, from 6-7 p.m. CT as we kick off CSEdWeek 2023. CSEdWeek is an annual program that inspires K-12 students to take an interest in CS. This year, our focus will be on the Impacts of Computing. “Impacts of Computing” refers to the positive and negative effects on various aspects of our lives, including education, privacy, security, and accessibility. A panel of 2023 CSHeroes will discuss these topics with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science."
Mon. Dec 4 - Sun. Dec 10 | Online
"Hour of Code is available year-round, but every year in December your class can join millions of students around the world celebrating Computer Science Education Week with the Hour of Code. Registration for the annual celebration starts each year in October."
Educator's Corner
STEAM resources for in-person, hybrid, remote learning, and professional development
STEAM Resources Spotlight
“STEM Challenges are real-world projects that create opportunities for high school students to work alongside STEM professionals as mentors. Students and mentors from STEM Challenge industry partners collaborate over the course of six months to explore, create, and build innovative solutions.
“Innovative schools and educators are being sought for phase two of the Agriculture Biology Curriculum Development Project Pilot, a collaboration of Illinois Science Teaching Association and Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers. The course uses storylining to help students identify phenomena and solve problems, is aligned with the Illinois Science Assessment, and is explicitly linked to the Next Generation Science Standards.
Writing teams have developed a semester of storylines that are being piloted currently in 10 Illinois high schools (phase one). Schools and teachers joining for phase two will receive access to the curriculum, professional development, and grant funds for implementation of the material. Participants will engage in a professional learning community to build capacities using storylining to explore biology in the context of agriculture.
The deadline to apply for phase two of the pilot is Dec. 8. Additional information and the application are here.”
“Explore face recognition with cutting-edge techniques such as convolutional networks, siamese networks, and triplet loss function. Efficiently map similar and dissimilar faces in picture embeddings for enhanced accuracy in computer vision.”
"2024 Presidential Primary Sources Project (PPSP) program series is an interactive distance learning program in collaboration with numerous National Park Sites and Presidential Libraries around the country. These sites present a series of free 45-60 minute interactive videoconferencing programs aimed at students in grades 4-12.
The 2024 program series will engage students in learning how to use and analyze primary sources as they are guided on a journey through the historical legacies of our presidents. A participating teacher explains, “You get to learn from an expert and virtually visit a location of historical value and interest in a truly immersive learning experience, where kids are not just being recipients of information but participating in the actual learning process by asking questions and analyzing artifacts."
"The series will run from January through April 2024. Free registration is now open, so feel free to visit the project web page for more information and to sign up today!
- 2024 PPSP Announcement: https://internet2.edu/announcing-the-2024-presidential-primary-sources-project-series/PPSP
- 2023 PPSP Success Blog: https://internet2.edu/presidential-primary-sources-project-reaches-new-record/"
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.
"First Spacesuit on the Moon
Neil Armstrong wore this spacesuit when he made his historic “one small step” onto the surface of the Moon on July 20, 1969. Before and after his two-and-a-half-hour lunar walk, he wore it inside the lunar module, but without the special gold visor helmet and with different gloves.
Neil Armstrong’s A-7L Lunar Spacesuit Apollo 11
Armstrong’s spacesuit is basically a form-fitting spacecraft. It provided air to breathe; protected him from temperature extremes, radiation, and high-speed meteoritic particles; and allowed him to communicate with others.”
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.