by Kareem Aziz
June 7, 2024 | 3:10 pm
In Nigeria today, having a strong foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is crucial to future success. Thankfully, there are plenty of exciting gadgets that make STEM learning fun and accessible for Nigerian students. However, many students and parents are unaware of these gadgets, so we…
In Nigeria today, having a strong foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is crucial for future success.
Thankfully, there are plenty of fascinating gadgets available that can make STEM learning fun and accessible for Nigerian students. However, many students and parents are unaware of their existence. Here are the top 5 must-have gadgets to develop your child’s STEM skills.
Raspberry Pi and Arduino:
Every bright student in Nigeria should try out Raspberry Pi and Arduino. Raspberry Pi is a mini computer that allows students to learn programming, build electronic circuits and even create projects. This helps with critical thinking and problem solving skills. Importantly, it is highly sought after by employers.
On the other hand, Arduino is an open source electronic platform and an alternative to Raspberry Pi. With Arduino, students can understand electronics and even learn how to build robots. Recall the efforts of Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), Kiki Shaggie, Sagamu, which is a perfect example of what both platforms can offer.
LEGO MINDSTORMS:
LEGO Mindstorms takes STEM skills to the next level. This ingenious system combines classic LEGO bricks with easy-to-program components so students can design and build robots, fostering creativity and an understanding of mechanical engineering principles.
Additionally, LEGO Mindstorms teaches students the fundamentals of computer science and gives them the opportunity to harness their creativity, which is important in Nigeria today, with a 2023 report from the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics indicating that there will be a significant increase in employment opportunities in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.
Dream it, print it: 3D printers
3D printers like the MakerBot and Prusa i3 allow students to distinguish the difference between imagination and reality. Nigerian science students can create objects in the virtual world using 3D design software and bring their designs to life through printing. This automatically fosters understanding of design principles and exposes students to the fascinating world of 3D modeling and manufacturing processes.
Fun coding with Sphero and Microbit
Today, coding is an essential skill for the 21st century, and Sphero and Micro:bit make learning to code an engaging experience. Sphero is a programmable robot designed to make learning fun for students. Moreover, it is made for beginners. This gamified approach makes learning to code fun and more enjoyable. Micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer that is another great tool to introduce coding concepts.
Related article: Nigerian Students Embrace Codingal: Bridging the Digital Divide with 21st Century Skills
Ozobot:
Ozobot is a small robot that uses color-coded code to follow paths and complete tasks. This playful device is a great way to introduce coding concepts and problem-solving skills to young Nigerian students in a fun and interactive way. As students experiment with Ozobot, they develop computational thinking skills – a valuable foundation for future success in STEM subjects.
Incorporating these fascinating gadgets into your child’s learning journey will equip them with the skills they need to succeed in the ever-evolving world of STEM. Remember, a love of learning is paramount – these gadgets should not replace traditional classroom learning, but rather stimulate curiosity and encourage exploration.