In the rapidly evolving digital world, preparing our children with a robust STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) is crucial for their success.
Steamoji Coquitlam is at the forefront of this educational revolution, offering an innovative approach that nurtures future innovators, inventors, builders and entrepreneurs.
Unlike traditional programs, this maker academy provides a comprehensive curriculum that spans 3D printing, coding & robotics, engineering, digital art, and beyond, fostering a deeper understanding of STEAM fields and equipping students with the skills to face tomorrow's challenges confidently.
Here are three ways Steamoji inspires children to connect with STEAM education and empowers them to be the next generation of innovators:
1. A holistic, curriculum-based approach to STEAM education
Steamoji Coquitlam's curriculum is meticulously designed to offer more than just a superficial glance at technology and science. It delves deep into the essence of STEAM, teaching children (five to 15 year olds) the critical importance of thinking like an engineer, a designer and an inventor in ways that traditional school systems are unable to offer.
Academy director of Steamoji Coquitlam Namita Gupta was drawn to the program when looking for a well-rounded STEAM program for her own young son.
"While there were many after-school programs, their focus was predominantly on coding. I struggled with the idea of him learning to code in a language that may not be relevant in the future. We were looking for a more holistic STEAM program, where the emphasis was on how apprentices can leverage key technical concepts to build things themselves," Gupta says.
“Ultimately, we’re looking to support a growth mindset. How can I have a young child thinking about a problem they want to solve and the steps they need to take to bring that solution to life?”
This approach ensures that children are not just consumers of technology but active creators and problem solvers.
2. Empowering through hands-on learning
At the heart of Steamoji's philosophy is the belief in learning by doing. The academy's hands-on, maker-mindset curriculum encourages students to engage directly with technology, from 3D printing to robotics, fostering a deep understanding and passion for STEAM.
"It's very tactile," Gupta says, emphasizing the importance of children making and building as a crucial part of their learning journey.
This direct engagement with technology not only enhances learning outcomes but also instills a sense of confidence and capability in young minds.
3. Inspiring innovation and creativity
Beyond technical skills, Steamoji Coquitlam is dedicated to nurturing innovation and creativity among its students. The curriculum is designed to challenge students to think critically about the world around them and to devise inventive solutions to real-world problems.
“Our students are able to not only think of a solution, but the skills and access to tools like 3d printers and laser cutters that Steamoji gives them helps them go ahead and make the ideas come to life,” Gupta says.
By fostering an environment that values creativity and innovation, Steamoji prepares students to become the inventors and entrepreneurs of tomorrow.
The upcoming grand opening of Steamoji Coquitlam, planned on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., promises to be an exciting showcase of what the academy has to offer, with interactive games, project demonstrations and activities designed to enlighten parents and children about the benefits of comprehensive STEAM education and Steamoji’s unique maker approach.
"We take so much pride in the amazing things our apprentices build and are excited to demonstrate the same and introduce Steamoji to the Tri-Cities in a big way," Gupta says.
To learn more about Steamoji Coquitlam, visit www.steamoji.com/canada-bc-coquitlam or book a free 30-minute trial session. To RSVP for their opening event at 224 Newport Dr, Port Moody, visit this website.
