“Creativity is the secret sauce of science, technology, engineering, art, and math. That’s why the STEAMx program at Lincoln is such a fantastic opportunity for students. It gives them the chance to develop their curiosity and love of learning.”
— John Diego Arango, Lincoln School STEAMx Program Director
STEAMx: Lower School
Lower School STEAMx offers a rich, multifaceted curriculum that empowers students to connect and apply their learning from different subjects through hands-on projects. This program encourages students to think critically and creatively, test and evaluate their ideas, and communicate their processes and solutions to others. Students are introduced to various tools, techniques, and technologies in a thoughtful progression that builds and strengthens skills and confidence. They are encouraged to explore and experiment with different methods, learning from mistakes and experiencing failure. By focusing on the thought process and problem-solving skills, students develop a growth mindset that will serve them well.
A key component of STEAMx education is hands-on, project-based learning. Students work on projects that incorporate their interests, allowing them to achieve curricular learning goals in ways that are meaningful to them. This approach fosters an environment where students’ ideas and experiences are valued, and success is not limited by intellectual constraints or fear of failure. With the flexibility to explore new concepts at their own pace and skill level, students become independent, critical thinkers well-prepared for future challenges.
STEAMx: Middle School
As Middle School STEAMx students progress through their academic journey, they become increasingly independent and capable of tackling more challenging tasks. The STEAMx program allows these young learners to explore and experiment in a way that encourages student agency, reflection, creative thinking, and discovery. STEAMx projects foster and deepen interest in specific areas of science or math.
Our Design Lab is a spacious collaborative space that encourages hands-on, project-based learning. Equipped with cutting-edge tools like laser cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers, and power tools, learners gain direct experience using materials, hardware, and software associated with the fields of robotics, technology and design, drafting technology, architectural technology, and advanced woodworking. This prepares students for various high-tech careers.
Sharing STEAMx with older students provides many benefits, including developing engineering, critical thinking, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills. Class projects and challenges also promote team building and collaborative skills, instilling a love for science and a broader understanding of the world’s workings. Students engaged in STEAMx activities develop a better understanding of mathematical concepts and the engineering design process while also enjoying fun and memorable experiences.
STEAMx: Upper School
In Upper School, we strive to incorporate STEAMx into our classes across the curriculum. Our mission is to equip high school students with the skills they need to succeed in college and the future job market. We emphasize content knowledge and 21st-century skills, including problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking. Our STEAM Hub is a spacious collaborative space that encourages hands-on, project-based learning. Equipped with cutting-edge tools like laser cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers, and power tools, our students are well-prepared for future study in robotics, technology and design, drafting technology, architectural technology, and advanced woodworking. The design-thinking framework is a crucial part of our curriculum, providing innovative learning opportunities.
As students progress through each grade level, they learn the importance of the design process. This process helps them brainstorm, prototype, test, and redesign their projects to solve real-world problems. In our 9th-grade class, Models and Fabrication, we start with simple shapes and move to more complex objects. The most exciting part is when students create their final projects using 3D printers. We use software like Tinkercad and other CAD design tools to assist students in bringing their ideas to life. It is truly amazing to witness the transformation of designs from mere sketches to physical objects!
Our STEAMx curriculum strengthens 21st-century skills such as communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, which are essential for success in the future workplace. Additionally, our multidisciplinary approach allows students to integrate topics from different subject areas for an interdisciplinary and applied approach, ensuring that they receive a well-rounded education that will prepare them for future challenges.