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  • Top 5 In-Demand Medical and Healthcare STEM Careers

    Top 5 In-Demand Medical and Healthcare STEM Careers

    Photo Courtesy of www.collegeconsensus.com

    In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, the fusion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) has given rise to many dynamic and sought-after careers. These professionals play pivotal roles in shaping the future of medicine, from designing cutting-edge medical devices to decoding the mysteries of our genetic makeup. In this exploration, we delve into the top 5 STEM careers in healthcare, unraveling the intricacies of each profession, from biomedical engineering to genetic counseling. As we navigate through these innovative fields, the potential for students to contribute to the forefront of medical advancements becomes not just a possibility but an inspiring call to action.

    1. Biomedical Engineer

    • Description: Biomedical engineers apply principles of engineering and biology to create technologies and systems that improve patient healthcare. They work on designing medical devices, artificial organs, and software to run healthcare machinery.
    • Salary: The average salary is around $99,550 per year.
    • STEM Connection: This career integrates principles from biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering.
    • Resource: Biomedical Engineering Career Path

    2. Health Informatics Specialist

    • Description: Health informatics specialists manage and analyze healthcare data to improve patient care. They design and implement health information systems, ensuring efficient medical information storage and retrieval.
    • Salary: The average salary is around $74,765 per year.
    • STEM Connection: This career involves using technology and data analysis within healthcare.
    • Resource: Health Informatics Career Path

    3. Clinical Research Scientist

    • Description: Clinical research scientists conduct experiments and trials to improve medical treatments and understand diseases. They work on developing and testing new drugs, therapies, and medical procedures.
    • Salary: The average salary is around $88,790 per year.
    • STEM Connection: This medical/healthcare STEM career applies biology, chemistry, and statistics principles to medical research.
    • Resource: Clinical Research Scientist Career Path

    4. Genetic Counselor

    • Description: Genetic counselors assess an individual’s risk for inherited conditions and provide guidance on genetic disorders. They work closely with healthcare professionals to offer information and support to patients.
    • Salary: The average salary is around $89,990 per year.
    • STEM Connection: This career integrates genetics, biology, and counseling skills.
    • Resource: Genetic Counseling Career Path

    5. Biostatistician

    • Description: Biostatisticians analyze health, medicine, and biology data to draw meaningful conclusions. They design experiments, develop statistical models, and interpret results in the context of healthcare and life sciences.
    • Salary: The average salary is around $93,290 per year.
    • STEM Connection: This career applies statistical methods to biological and health-related data.
    • Resource: Biostatistician Career Path

    In the beginning of medical innovation, the bridge between STEM and healthcare stands as a pillar of opportunity. The careers we’ve explored — from crafting artificial organs to deciphering the genetic code — showcase the diverse and impactful ways STEM professionals contribute to the well-being of humanity. As we conclude this journey through biomedical engineering, health informatics, clinical research, genetic counseling, and biostatistics, the call for cultivating a passion for STEM becomes even more apparent.

    By Srihitha Sunkara

    Do you want more resources on the topic of medical and healthcare STEM careers? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.

    Project-based learning enrichment provides high school students with college and career readiness. It gives them real-world relevance, transforming students into collaborators and imaginative problem solvers. They will gain the upper hand in a global landscape, stemming from enhanced confidence and grit. NSTEM provides these young STEM enthusiasts with a close community of like-minded fellow students and educators.  To start your 9-12 Chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • Festive Chemistry: 5 Holiday Experiments that Spark Joy in Middle School Labs

    Festive Chemistry: 5 Holiday Experiments that Spark Joy in Middle School Labs

    Photo Courtesy of www.shutterstock.com

    Exploring festive chemistry lab experiments for middle school students promises an engaging and educational journey into the wonders of science during the winter season. Let us discover five exciting lab experiments that add a touch of festivity and provide valuable insights into the principles of chemistry.

    1. Candy Cane Chromatography

    Link to Solution Science: Colorful Candy Chromatography

    Unveil the colorful secrets hidden within candy canes through chromatography. This experiment introduces students to the concept of separating mixtures and understanding the different components of festive treats. Candy Cane Chromatography educates students about chromatography principles, demonstrating how different components move at varying rates, resulting in colorful patterns.

    How It Works: Using chromatography paper and a solvent, students witness the separation of pigments in candy canes. This hands-on activity allows them to explore the science behind the vibrant stripes.

    Materials Needed: Candy canes, chromatography paper, a solvent (e.g., water or rubbing alcohol), and small containers.

    2. Wintergreen Sparkle

    Link to Wintergreen Sparkle Video

    Infuse chemistry with magic in the Wintergreen Sparkle experiment, where students create a winter-themed, sparkling reaction. This experiment explores chemical reactions and the factors influencing them. Wintergreen Sparkle teaches students about chemical reactions, including the role of acids and bases and the release of carbon dioxide gas.

    How It Works: Students witness a fizzing and sparkling reaction by combining wintergreen lifesavers and various household ingredients. This visually captivating experiment introduces them to the concept of chemical reactions.

    Materials Needed: Wintergreen lifesavers, baking soda, vinegar, and a clear container.

    3. Gingerbread Man Chemistry

    Link to Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment

    Fuse the joy of holiday baking with chemistry in the Gingerbread Man Chemistry experiment. This activity explores the science of leavening agents and their role in baking. Gingerbread Man Chemistry educates students about leavening agents and the chemical reactions during baking, contributing to the dough’s rise.

    How It Works: Students create gingerbread man cutouts with variations in the amount of baking soda or baking powder. They observe how these leavening agents affect the rise of the gingerbread during baking.

    Materials Needed: Gingerbread dough, baking soda, baking powder, and cookie cutters.

    4. Holiday Slime

    Link to Holiday Slime Inspiration

    Embrace the holiday spirit with a slimy twist in the Holiday Slime experiment. This gooey activity explores the science of polymers and non-Newtonian fluids. Holiday Slime introduces students to the science of polymers and non-Newtonian fluids, showcasing the fascinating properties of slime.

    How It Works: Students create a holiday-themed slime by mixing common slime ingredients with festive additions like glitter or sequins. This experiment delves into the properties of polymers and their unique behaviors.

    Materials Needed: White school glue, liquid starch, water, and optional festive add-ins.

    5. Peppermint Pop Rocks

    Link to Peppermint Pop Rocks Experiment Video

    Experience the pop and fizzle of the holiday season with PeppLink to Peppermint Pop Rocks Inspirationermint Pop Rocks. This experiment explores the science behind carbonation and gas release. Peppermint Pop Rocks teaches students about chemical reactions involving acids and bases, showcasing the release of carbon dioxide gas.

    How It Works: Students combine crushed peppermint candy with baking soda and observe the fizzy reaction when adding vinegar. This engaging experiment provides insights into chemical reactions involving acids and bases.

    Materials Needed: Peppermint candy, baking soda, vinegar, and containers.

    By Srihitha Sunkara

    As we wrap up these holiday chemistry lab experiments, consider the endless possibilities that await a deeper dive into STEM education. NSTEM provides a supportive community and resources to nurture young minds passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. To explore more STEM opportunities and foster a love for learning, visit NSTEM’s website. Start your journey into the exciting world of STEM today!

    Do you want more resources on the topic of holiday chemistry lab experiments? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list. 

    Middle School is where students are transformed, entering as children and emerging as young adults. Project-based learning enrichment helps students connect the dots between STEM and real life, making math and science relevant for them, keeping them engaged and interested. With a meaningful middle school experience, students are far more likely to focus on STEM disciplines in high school and beyond.  To start your 6-8 middle school chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • Winter STEMderland: Sparking Festive Curiosity with 3 High School Projects

    Winter STEMderland: Sparking Festive Curiosity with 3 High School Projects

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    As the holiday season wraps us in its coziness, it is the perfect time to dive into the world of STEM. This article will explore three captivating high school projects that infuse the winter season’s spirit with the wonders of STEM. Get ready to discover how these ingenious projects spark festive curiosity, inviting students to embrace the joy of learning while celebrating the magic of winter and Christmas.

    1. Holiday Card Circuits

    In this activity, students make a holiday card with an LED light-up feature on the cover. A flat battery connects to aluminum foil on the inside of the card to power a small LED sticking out of the front cover. To make this activity festive, students can place the outer light in a holiday drawing, such as Rudolph’s nose or a light-up star atop a Christmas tree. This project teaches students about electric currents and how a power source can be connected to a load with something as simple as aluminum foil.

    Activity link: Holiday Card Circuits

    Materials needed: cardstock, 3v coin cell batteries, aluminum foil, LEDs, tape, glue, and markers.

    2. Crystal Candy Cane Ornaments

    In this activity, students make crystal candy cane ornaments to hang up on Christmas trees. First, twist pipe cleaners into a candy cane formation. Then, put it into a solution to grow crystals on their outsides. Tie on a ribbon, and it is an ornament! This project is a simple chemistry activity that teaches students about chemical reactions and how they can be turned into fun holiday activities.

    Activity link: Crystal Candy Canes You Can Make

    Materials needed: borax, water, mason jars, pans, spoons, measuring cups, tablespoons, pipe cleaners, and ribbon.

    3. Fluffy Candy Cane Christmas Slime

    This activity allows students to make a scientific fluffy slime experiment while simultaneously engaging the holiday spirit! In this project, students create red and white slime, which they can twist into candy canes or any Christmas formation. This satisfying experiment teaches students the importance of mixtures in chemistry and how they can create special substances like slime.

    Activity link: Fluffy Candy Cane Christmas Slime

    Materials needed: white school glue, foam shaving cream, baking soda, food coloring, saline solution.

    These three winter high school projects captivate students with their innovation and showcase the potential for creativity within STEM. Curiosity knows no bounds, and the magic of discovery thrives in the winter and Christmas! These activities will inspire students to explore, learn, and create their advancements in the world of STEM, especially in the spirit of the holiday season!

    By Tyler King

    Do you want more resources on the topic of winter high school projects? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.

    Project-based learning enrichment provides high school students with college and career readiness. It gives them real-world relevance, transforming students into collaborators and imaginative problem solvers. They will gain the upper hand in a global landscape, stemming from enhanced confidence and grit. NSTEM provides these young STEM enthusiasts with a close community of like-minded fellow students and educators.  To start your 9-12 Chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • The ABCs of STEM: Integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math into Elementary Education

    The ABCs of STEM: Integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math into Elementary Education

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    Are you looking for ways to involve your elementary school students in STEM? If you want to explore a more technical approach to teaching, there are a few key factors you should know about. Here are the three ABCs for elementary school STEM education you need to know to get started.

    A: Application.

    When introducing your kids to STEM, it’s essential to encourage practical applications of what they learn. Introduce real-world scenarios to paint a picture of what STEM looks like in engineering challenges, technological problem-solving, and mathematical applications. Then, use hands-on activities, experiments, and projects to engage your students in their learning. Getting young learners involved with these enjoyable activities captivates and catches their interest, empowering them to embrace and participate in their educational STEM journey. This immersive approach supports deeper understanding and encourages lifelong curiosity and enthusiasm.

    Some activity ideas include making slime, DIY lava lamps, and making s’mores with a solar oven! For more ideas, visit the following website: 50 STEM Activities to Help Kids Think Outside the Box – We Are Teachers.

    B: Basics. 

    While engaging in activities, work on building a solid foundation in the core principles of each STEM discipline through your teaching. Ensure your students grasp the essentials before diving into more complex topics and experiments. Make sure you clearly explain the foundational aspects of STEM before going deeper. Establishing your kids with a solid understanding of the basics will pave the way for future explorations into more advanced learning. This emphasis on a sturdy foundation serves as the basis for their expansion of knowledge and future in STEM education.

    To solidify the basics, try short quizzes, exit tickets, or class questions and answers using personal whiteboards. You can also engage in more fun activities to emphasize the basics of STEM with the following Science Buddies.org website: Elementary School STEM Activities for Kids.  

    C: Collaboration. 

    One of the most critical aspects of teaching STEM to your elementary schoolers is collaboration. Encourage teamwork, group projects, and collective problem-solving in your teaching to promote cooperation. Collaboration stimulates communication, fosters innovation, and expands students’ social skills. Engaging your students in collaborative work enriches their educational experiences and develops their ability to combine the perspectives of the people around them. Collaboration lays the foundation for creative thinking and greater accomplishments in STEM.

    To encourage collaboration, put your students in pairs or groups for activities, assignments, and experiments. For a comprehensive list of collaborative activities, check out the following website: 48 Creative Team-Building Activities for Kids.

    These three tips make integrating STEM into your elementary school teaching easy. Just follow the ABCs!

    We encourage you to consider starting an NSTEM chapter at your school. NSTEM, with its commitment to innovative STEM education, can provide invaluable resources and support. By joining hands with NSTEM, you can help create a brighter future for our children. To get started, explore NSTEM resources to access a wealth of materials and guidance, enriching STEM education in 3-5 classrooms and beyond. 

    By Tyler King

    Do you want more resources on the topic of elementary STEM education? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list. 

    Grades 3-5 continue the STEM education journey, where students are interested in the natural world and in how things work, responding to stories told by teachers that give purpose and meaning to STEM disciplines, which molds them into thinkers, problem solvers, and creators. The National STEM Honor Society sees grades 3-5 as a critical point in the NSTEM journey. To start your grade 3-5 chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • Top 5 Significant Environmental STEM Careers

    Top 5 Significant Environmental STEM Careers

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    Environmental science is one of the most essential sciences there is to study. As the Earth and the environment are constantly changing due to the changes made by mankind, it is crucial to understand the impact of these changes. That is why considering a career in environmental science is of the utmost importance. Here are five environmental STEM careers you can consider for the future.

    1. Environmental Engineer

    Environmental engineers are professionals who apply engineering, chemistry, biology, and soil science principles to develop solutions to environmental problems. Their focus can stem from protecting the environment to human health in current environmental conditions. Environmental engineers work on air and water quality issues, waste management, pollution control, and sustainable development. The average yearly salary for this STEM career is $85,199. To better understand our environment and how it works, a career as an environmental engineer might be the one for you.

    2. Hydrologist

    A hydrologist is a scientist who studies the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the Earth’s atmosphere and on its surface. To be more specific, hydrology is the scientific discipline that deals with the properties of the waters on Earth and their environmental relationships. If you were a hydrologist, you would study various aspects of water, including rainfall, snowfall, runoff, groundwater, and water quality. The average yearly salary for this STEM career is $85,402. A hydrologist’s work is critical for understanding water resources, managing water supplies, and addressing water-related issues. So, if you are interested in water and all its properties, this is undoubtedly a career to consider.

    3. Wildlife Biologist

    A wildlife biologist is a scientist who studies and manages wildlife, including different types of animals, plants, and habitats. Wildlife biologists aim to understand the behavior, ecology, distribution, and population dynamics of various species in natural ecosystems. Their work often involves field research, data analysis, and conservation efforts to ensure the well-being and sustainability of wildlife populations. The average yearly salary for this STEM career is $57,231. If you are interested in animals and wildlife in general, this is the career for you.

    4. Microbiologist

    A microbiologist is a scientist who studies microscopic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae, and protozoa. Microbiologists are crucial in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, industry, and environmental science. They use multiple tools and techniques, including microscopes, molecular biology techniques, and computer-based analysis. Microbiological research contributes significantly to understanding life processes and human health and developing technologies with applications in diverse industries. The average yearly salary for this STEM career is $79,422.

    5. Arborist

    An arborist, also known as a tree surgeon, specializes in cultivating, managing, and studying trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants. Arborists are trained in the care and maintenance of trees, and they work to ensure the health, safety, and aesthetic value of individual trees and entire tree populations. Their work contributes to urban and natural landscapes’ overall health and sustainability. The average yearly salary for this STEM career is $76,248. Any lover of nature and trees will find this work to be illuminating. 

    These environmental STEM careers offer diverse opportunities to contribute to the well-being and sustainability of the environment. If you are interested in any of these areas, exploring them further as you progress through high school is beneficial.

    By Rameen Naviwala

    Do you want more resources on the topic of environmental STEM careers? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.

    Project-based learning enrichment provides high school students with college and career readiness. It gives them real-world relevance, transforming students into collaborators and imaginative problem solvers. They will gain the upper hand from enhanced confidence and grit in a global landscape. NSTEM provides these young STEM enthusiasts with a close community of like-minded fellow students and educators.  To start your 9-12 Chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • 3 Original Family Activities to Boost Your Child’s STEM Experience

    3 Original Family Activities to Boost Your Child’s STEM Experience

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    Are you seeking engaging family activities to enhance your elementary school child’s STEM experience before they embark on their high school and college journey? Look no further. This article presents three activities the whole family can enjoy: fostering STEM knowledge while creating lasting family memories. These activities stimulate your child’s interest in STEM education and strengthen family bonds through fun and timeless experiences.

    1. Tower Building 

    Who doesn’t love Jenga or Legos? Engage in a friendly family competition to build the tallest tower using materials such as Jenga blocks, Legos, paper cups, cards, or random household items. Set a timer to add a competitive edge and track the time spent constructing the towers. This activity brings laughter and knowledge about engineering, emphasizing the intricacies of creating tall and stable structures. It might even ignite an interest in real-life building design. Consider making this activity a regular part of your family game night.

    2. Paper Circuits

    Transform arts and crafts time into a STEM learning opportunity with paper circuits. Gather paper, copper tape, LED lights, coin batteries, and clear tape. Follow the Science Buddies.org website instructions to create a paper circuit that lights up, teaching your child about circuits and conductivity. Make it a friendly competition to create the fastest or most elaborate paper circuit. This activity combines creativity with STEM education, making it an enjoyable and enlightening experience for the whole family.

    3. Can This Float?

    Turn everyday household items into a science experiment with “Can This Float?” Collect items such as cups, paper plates, paperclips, candle holders, pencils, erasers, and golf balls. Fill a bucket with water and challenge your child to predict whether each item will float or sink based on size, shape, weight, and density. Test their hypotheses by placing the items in the water. This activity teaches concepts of density and volume while encouraging educated guesses. Add an element of fun by having everyone guess, awarding points to those with correct predictions. It is a playful way to explore science and make a splash!

    These are just some activities you can do at home with your family to help boost your elementary school children’s STEM experiences. Encouraging your child to take an interest in STEM will help advance their future and education, and participating in these activities will allow them to feel more comfortable with the unknown. So have fun with these family activities!

    By Rameen Naviwala

    Do you want more resources on the topic of STEM family activities? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list. 

    Grades 3-5 continue the STEM education journey, where students are interested in the natural world and in how things work, responding to stories told by teachers that give purpose and meaning to STEM disciplines, which molds them into thinkers, problem solvers, and creators. The National STEM Honor Society sees grades 3-5 as a critical point in the NSTEM journey. To start your grade 3-5 chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.