In Nigeria today, having a strong foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is crucial for future success.
Thankfully, there are a lot of engaging gadgets that can make STEM learning fun and accessible for Nigerian students. However many students and parents are not aware of these gadgets, so we have help in bringing the top five must-have gadgets to cultivate your child’s STEM skills:
The Raspberry Pi & Arduino:
Every brilliant student in Nigeria should try having access to the Raspberry Pi and Arduino. The Raspberry Pi is a mini-computer, that empowers students to learn programming, build electronic circuits, and even create their projects. This helps critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Importantly it is highly sought after by employers.
Meanwhile, Arduino is an open-source electronics platform, that is an alternative to the Raspberry Pi. With Arduino, students can understand electronics, and even learn to build robots. Recall what the Federal government girls’ College (FGGC) did in Sagamu, Kiki Shaggy, that is a perfect example of what both platforms can offer you.
LEGO Mindstorms:
LEGO Mindstorms takes STEM skills to the next level. This ingenious system combines classic LEGO bricks with easy programmable components. Students can design and build robots, bringing about creativity and an understanding of mechanical engineering principles.
Additionally, LEGO Mindstorms brings students to the fundamentals of computer science as they bring their creativity to life. This is important in Nigeria today, where a 2023 report by the National Bureau of Statistics indicated a significant rise in job opportunities within the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.
Dream It, print It: 3D printers
3D printers, like the MakerBot or Prusa i3, allow students to identify the difference between imagination and reality. Using 3D design software, science students in Nigeria can create objects in a virtual world and then bring their designs to life through printing. This automatically brings an understanding of design principles and introduces students to the fascinating world of 3D modelling and manufacturing processes.
Playful Coding with sphero & micro bit
Nowadays coding is an essential skill for the 21st century, and the Sphero and Micro: bit make learning to code an engaging experience. Sphero is a programmable robot that has been designed in a gameable way for students. Moreover, this is created for new beginners. This gamified approach makes learning to code fun and more enjoyable. The Micro: bit, is a pocket-sized computer, and is another excellent tool for introducing coding concepts.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Students Embrace Codingal: Bridging the digital divide with 21st century skills
The Ozobot is a compact robot that uses colour codes to follow paths and complete tasks. This playful gadget is a fantastic way to introduce younger Nigerian students to coding concepts and problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive manner. As they experiment with Ozobot, students develop computational thinking skills, a valuable foundation for future success in STEM subjects.
By incorporating these engaging gadgets into your child’s learning journey, you can equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in the ever-evolving world of STEM. Remember, a love for learning is paramount. These gadgets should spark curiosity and encourage exploration, not replace traditional classroom learning.
