Prairie Wind Elementary School, nestled in the heart of Omaha Public Schools, recently played host to an extraordinary evening of exploration and learning during their annual STEAM Night. The event, powered by Prairie STEM and others, brought together students, parents, and educators for an immersive experience in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. From the breathtaking underwater adventures with Oculus Qwest 2 to the electrifying demonstrations of magnets and electricity in Nathan’s Science Show, the night was a celebration of curiosity, innovation, and hands-on learning.
STEAM Magic Unleashed: Bingo the Robot Dog Takes Prairie Wind Elementary on a Technological Adventure from Cafeteria Lunchtime to STEAM Night Extravaganza
Bingo, our beloved robot dog, brought an extra dose of excitement to Prairie Wind Elementary’s STEAM Night festivities. Before the event kicked off, Bingo took a lively stroll through the cafeteria during lunch, turning heads and eliciting joyous reactions from students. His playful antics not only added a touch of whimsy to the lunchtime routine but also served as a preview of the technological wonders awaiting everyone at STEAM Night. As the night unfolded, Bingo continued to be a star, greeting attendees and spreading delight as he strolled through the school corridors. His interactive presence showcased the seamless integration of technology into education, creating memorable moments and fostering a sense of wonder among students and parents alike. Bingo proved to be not just a robot companion but a charismatic ambassador of the future, symbolizing the innovative spirit that defines Prairie Wind’s commitment to STEAM education.
Oculus Qwest 2 and Ocean Rift: Diving into the Depths of Discovery
Prairie Wind students embarked on a virtual journey into the oceanic realm using Oculus Qwest 2 goggles and the Ocean Rift app. The immersive experience allowed them to explore marine ecosystems, encounter fascinating sea creatures, and learn about the importance of ocean conservation. The fusion of cutting-edge technology and educational content not only made learning enjoyable but also sparked a sense of wonder and appreciation for the underwater world.
Drone Soccer Arena: Taking Flight into STEM
The soccer arena at Prairie Wind transformed into a buzzing hub of excitement as drones took to the sky. Students, guided by skilled instructors, piloted drones, honing their skills in aerial maneuvering. This exhilarating activity not only introduced them to the principles of aerodynamics and technology but also emphasized the importance of precision and teamwork. The drone flights showcased the potential of technology to inspire the next generation of engineers and aviation enthusiasts.
Kamigami Bug Robots: Controlling Creativity with iPads
In an engaging twist to the Kamigami bug robot activity at Prairie Wind Elementary’s STEAM Night, families discovered a unique opportunity for parent-child collaboration. The session became a delightful shared experience as many parents eagerly joined their children in using iPads to control the Kamigami bug robots. This interactive parent-child activity not only bridged generational gaps but also showcased the inclusive nature of STEAM education. Together, parents and children navigated the intricate challenges, fostering a sense of teamwork, communication, and shared excitement. The Kamigami robots became a conduit for family bonding, illustrating that the exploration of technology and robotics can be a collaborative adventure that transcends the classroom and resonates within the family unit. Prairie Wind’s commitment to involving parents in the learning journey was evident, creating a harmonious blend of education and familial joy during this dynamic STEAM Night event.
Nathan’s Science Show: Unveiling the Mysteries of Magnets and Electricity
Nathan’s Science Show took center stage, captivating the audience with mind-bending experiments involving magnets and electricity. From the mysterious allure of “Thor’s Hammer” to demonstrations showcasing the invisible forces at play, students were immersed in the world of science and physics. The show not only entertained but also educated, making complex concepts accessible and inspiring a newfound appreciation for the wonders of magnetism.
Straw Rocket Build and Launch: Blasting Off into Engineering
Prairie Wind students embraced hands-on creativity by building and launching their own straw rockets. Guided by STEM principles, they designed, tested, and modified their creations, learning about aerodynamics and engineering in the process. The straw rocket activity brought together elements of design thinking, problem-solving, and experimentation, reinforcing the idea that learning is most effective when it’s a thrilling, hands-on experience.
Conclusion:
Prairie Wind Elementary’s STEAM Night was a resounding success, showcasing the power of hands-on, immersive learning experiences. From virtual ocean exploration to drone flights, robot control, magnetic mysteries, and rocket launches, the night illuminated the diverse avenues through which STEAM education can ignite curiosity and inspire the next generation of innovators. Prairie Wind continues to lead the charge in fostering a love for learning, ensuring that their students are well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in our ever-evolving world.
