In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse, we’re stacking up the benefits of using LEGO bricks as a powerful educational tool across all subjects! From math and science to language arts and history, discover how these iconic blocks can transform your classroom into a dynamic, hands-on learning environment. Join host Dan Thomas as he explores creative ways to integrate LEGO into your lessons, enhancing creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among your students. Whether you're a seasoned LEGO master or just getting started, this episode is packed with ideas to help you build a more engaging and interactive curriculum—one brick at a time!

In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast, I take you on a journey into the world of engineering and design, using LEGO bricks as the ultimate teaching tool. Discover how you can introduce your students to key engineering principles through hands-on activities that are as educational as they are fun. From building simple machines like levers and pulleys to designing an entire playground and developing problem-solving prototypes, Dan shares practical ideas to make these concepts come alive in your classroom. Tune in to learn how LEGO bricks can inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for engineering in your students. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to STEM, this episode will give you the tools to build the future—one brick at a time.

Visit coachthomastech.com/blog for more resources and detailed guides on bringing these activities to life in your classroom!

"Unlock the power of LEGO bricks in your classroom with this exciting episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast! Join host Dan Thomas as we dive into how LEGO challenges can transform your teaching approach by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students. Whether it’s constructing a bridge that holds real weight, spinning a LEGO-crafted story, or solving puzzles under pressure, these hands-on activities will engage your students like never before. Discover how these simple, yet powerful tools can turn learning into an epic adventure and equip your students with skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how to make education an unforgettable experience with LEGO! Don’t miss out—subscribe, share, and join the conversation today!"

Lesson Plan Link

In this episode of TechEd Clubhouse with Dan Thomas, we explore how LEGO activities can be a game-changer for building classroom community at the start of the school year. Join Dan as he shares creative and effective strategies for using LEGO to foster teamwork, collaboration, and a positive learning environment. From icebreakers to collaborative builds, learn how these hands-on activities can help your students connect, engage, and thrive together.

If you find this episode helpful, please like, follow, and share it with a colleague who would benefit from these insights. Let’s inspire more educators to create classrooms where every student feels a sense of belonging

Welcome to the Summer Retooling Series podcast! In this episode, we're diving into the transformative power of retooling your teaching plan. Imagine a classroom where students are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in their learning journey. We'll explore practical strategies for integrating innovative teaching methods, including STEM, Project-Based Learning (PBL), play-based learning, and technology. Learn how to create a dynamic and effective learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and social skills. Tune in to discover how you can revolutionize your classroom and prepare your students for a rapidly evolving world.

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #RetoolYourTeaching and share your experiences and tips!

In Episode 3 of the Summer Retooling Series podcast, we explores the transformative power of integrating STEM into the classroom. This episode covers the fundamentals of STEM education, its importance, and the benefits it offers in enhancing student engagement and developing critical skills. Practical strategies for integrating STEM, such as starting with simple projects, incorporating technology, and using real-world problems, are shared.

The episode also addresses common challenges educators face and provides solutions and resources to support them in their STEM integration journey.

Join the conversation with the hashtag #summerretool and take your teaching to the next level with STEM!

Resources Mentioned:

• Science Buddies
• TeachEngineering
• Scratch
• Code.org
• LEGO Education
• VEX Robotics
• PhET Interactive Simulations
• Makerspaces.com
• National Science Foundation
• DonorsChoose
• NASA STEM Engagement
• National Science Teaching Association (NSTA)
• STEMteachersNYC
• Edutopia STEM Community
• Amazon STEM Kits
• Lakeshore Learning
• STEMfinity

1. PBLWorks by the Buck Institute for Education

   • Website: PBLWorks
   • Description: A comprehensive resource for PBL, offering tools, resources, and professional development opportunities for educators.

2. Edutopia: Project-Based Learning

   • Website: Edutopia PBL
   • Description: A rich collection of articles, videos, and case studies on PBL, including practical tips and success stories from classrooms around the world.

3. PBL Online

   • Website: PBL Online
   • Description: A platform providing PBL resources, including project examples, planning guides, and assessment tools.

4. High Tech High

   • Website: High Tech High
   • Description: An educational organization focused on PBL, with extensive resources and examples of student projects.

5. The Buck Institute for Education: Free Project Search

   • Website: BIE Free Project Search
   • Description: A searchable database of free PBL projects suitable for various grade levels and subjects.

6. Project-Based Learning: Real Questions. Real Answers. How to Unpack PBL and Inquiry

   • Author: John Larmer and Suzie Boss
   • Description: A practical guide for educators looking to implement PBL, with answers to common questions and real-world examples.

7. The Project-Based Learning Handbook

   • Authors: Thom Markham, John Larmer, and Jason Ravitz
   • Description: A step-by-step guide to PBL, including project planning, execution, and assessment strategies.

8. EdTechTeacher: PBL Resources

   • Website: EdTechTeacher PBL
   • Description: A collection of PBL resources, including lesson plans, project ideas, and technology integration tips.

9. Twitter Chats and Hashtags:

   • #PBLChat: Join the conversation with educators discussing PBL strategies and experiences.
   • #EdChat: A broader educational chat where PBL is frequently discussed.
   • #SummerRetool: Share your retooling journey and connect with other educators this summer.

Stay Connected:

• Blog: coacthomastech.com/blog
• Twitter: Follow us @coachthomastech for daily tips and resources.
• Podcast: Subscribe to our podcast for weekly episodes on retooling your teaching.

Welcome to the first episode of our Summer Retooling Series podcast! In this episode, we explore the importance of using the summer break for professional development and the benefits of retooling your teaching methods. We'll dive into the key concepts of Project-Based Learning (PBL), STEM, and playful education, and discuss how these approaches can transform your classroom into a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Join us on this journey to enhance your teaching practices and inspire your students with innovative and effective approaches. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make the upcoming school year your best one yet!

Call to Action: Subscribe to our podcast and follow our blog for weekly tips and resources. Join the conversation on Twitter using #SummerRetool and share your retooling journey with us!

Dan Thomas #notatISTE24 (@coachthomastech) / X (twitter.com) Coach Thomas Tech – Playful Learning, Serious Results Blog – Coach Thomas Tech