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Unlocking Creativity: Jonathan Payne's Innovative Approach to STEAM Education

Show Notes:

Join Dr. Diane as we unlock the secrets of using hands-on STEAM to transform education in an energizing conversation with Jonathan Payne, Lackland ISD STEAM specialist and founder of The Innovative Mind Lab. How did an insurance salesman find his true calling as a passionate STEAM educator? What are some of his unique strategies for connecting with students and nurturing their individual interests through STEAM?

"We're like gardeners. You have to have that mentality. You know you want to see fruit, but you know gardening is not microwaving a plate. You know it's something that takes time, care, patience, and a certain heart to do it and to do it well."

Jonathan takes us on a journey through the exciting world of STEAM education. From robotic class pets that teach coding and biology to older students designing intricate Rube Goldberg machines, these projects offer more than just fun—they're critical in equipping the next generation with essential skills for the future.

Learn about Jonathan's brainchild, The Innovative Mind Lab, a dedicated space for children to explore and grow through hands-on STEAM and storytelling. We take a deep dive into the power of storytelling as a vehicle for fostering an inclusive learning environment and for showing kids the power of STEAM. Plus Jonathan shares specific strategies for bringing powerful STEAM experiences to your learning environment.

And if that's not enough, we discover that Jonathan is also a musician. Check out the links to his educational STEAM songs and videos that are not only fun but also enrich the learning experience for kids. This episode is a testament to the joy of STEAM teaching and the limitless possibilities when education and creativity unite.

Chapters & Timestamps:

• From Insurance to STEAM Leader: Jonathan's Journey [01:08]
• Connecting with Students: The Gardener's Approach [03:04]
• Exploring STEAM Education: Projects and Skills [7:03]
• Unpacking STEAM [11:47]
• The Innovative Mind Lab: A Haven for Creative STEAM solving [14:27]
• Storytelling in STEAM: Inspiring Future Leaders [19:29]
• Honoring Every Personality through STEAM Education [23:36]
• Strategies for Bring STEAM into Your Classroom [30:54]
• The Joy of Teaching: STEAM Songs [32:12]

Links:

Follow Jonathan on Instagram and Facebook.

The Innovative Mind Lab

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