Engineering is an exciting field that requires creativity, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking abilities. To encourage children to become interested in engineering, it is important to introduce them to fun and engaging activities that build these skills. Educational STEM games offer an excellent way for children to learn about engineering while having fun at the same time. In this article, we will explore the benefits of educational STEM games and provide some examples of games that parents and teachers can use to encourage children to play and learn engineering.
Benefits of Educational STEM Games
Develops Problem-Solving Skills
One of the key benefits of educational STEM games is that they help develop problem-solving skills. Children are presented with a challenge that they must solve, and they must use critical thinking and creativity to find a solution. This helps to develop their problem-solving skills, which are essential in the field of engineering.
Encourages Creativity
Educational STEM games also encourage creativity. Children are often given open-ended challenges that allow them to use their imaginations and come up with unique solutions. This type of creative thinking is essential in the field of engineering, where new and innovative solutions are constantly being developed.
Builds Technical Skills
Another benefit of educational STEM games is that they help build technical skills. Many games require children to use tools and equipment to build or create something. This helps to develop their technical skills, which are essential in the field of engineering.
Fosters Collaboration and Communication
Educational STEM games also foster collaboration and communication skills. Many games are designed to be played in groups, which encourages children to work together to find a solution. This helps to develop their collaboration and communication skills, which are essential in any field.
Examples of Educational STEM Games
GoldieBlox and the Spinning Machine
GoldieBlox and the Spinning Machine is a game designed to encourage girls to become interested in engineering. The game comes with a storybook that introduces children to Goldie, a girl who loves to build things. The game challenges children to help Goldie build a spinning machine using various tools and materials.
Lego Mindstorms
Lego Mindstorms is a popular game that allows children to build and program their own robots. The game comes with a set of Lego pieces and a programmable brick that children can use to create their own robots. The game also comes with a software program that allows children to program their robots to perform various tasks.
ThinkFun Gravity Maze
ThinkFun Gravity Maze is a game that challenges children to build a maze that will allow a marble to reach its target. The game comes with a set of building blocks and a marble, and children must use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to create a working maze.
Bridge Constructor
Bridge Constructor is a game that challenges children to build bridges that can withstand the weight of cars and trucks. The game comes with a variety of materials and tools, and children must use their problem-solving skills and engineering knowledge to create strong and stable bridges.
Kerbal Space Program
Kerbal Space Program is a game that allows children to design and build their own spacecraft. The game challenges children to plan and execute missions, and they must use critical thinking and engineering skills to successfully complete their missions.
Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a game that allows children to design and create their own 3D models. The game comes with a variety of tools and materials, and children can use their imaginations to create unique and innovative designs.
Conclusion
Educational STEM games offer a fun and engaging way for children to learn about engineering. By playing these games, children can develop their problem-solving, creativity, technical, collaboration, and communication skills. The examples provided above are just a few of the many educational STEM games available, and parents and teachers are encouraged to explore the variety of options available to find the ones that best suit the needs and interests of their children.
