PARENT RESOURCES
​WHAT IS STEM LAB?

ABOUT THE CLASS


​STEM Lab is one of the Special Classes that students attend once a week for thirty-five minutes at Cahaba Elementary School.  STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.  In Trussville City Schools STEM Labs, we focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics concepts and skills that pertain to digital literacy and computer science.  

CONCEPTS & SKILLS

​Your child will learn a great deal in STEM Lab.  We have five major goals for Kindergarten through 5th Grade students to become:
​
Computational Thinkers
​Computational thinkers understand the integral part computer technologies play in our world, the way that computers use systematic problem solving processes, and begin learning computer programming languages.   Concepts and skills students will learn and develop to become computational thinkers are:
  • Coding Languages
  • Encryption
  • Computer Algorithms
  • Systematic Processes
  • Computer Programming
Digital Citizens
Digital citizens understand safety and security, responsible use of technology, and the influence of technology on its users.  Concepts and skills students will learn and develop to become digital citizens are:​
  • Security Technologies
  • Digital Identity
  • Using Technologies Responsibly 
  • Digital Ownership
  • Assistive Technologies
  • Web Advertising
  • Personal and Private Information
  • Tracking Technologies
  • The Impact of Technology
  • STEM Professions 
Global Collaborators
Global Collaborators develop research skills to create artifacts and use digital tools to communicate or exchange information.  Concepts and skills students will learn and develop to become global collaborators are:
  • Digital Tools and Apps
  • Digital Products
  • Keyboarding
  • Collaborative Research 
  • Validity and Credibility of Online Resources
  • Collaboration Technologies
Computer Analysts
Computer Analysts understand and use various devices to solve a problem and accomplish a task in the most effective way.  Concepts and skills students will learn and develop to become computing analysts are:
  • Gathering, Organizing, and Presenting Data
  • Digital Devices
  • Machines and Systems
  • Interactives and Simulations
Innovative Designers
Innovative Designers develop new solutions, products, and processes using the design thinking process and are familiar with the advantages and limitations of technology.  Concepts and skills students will learn and develop to become innovative designers are:​
  • Human and Computer Partnerships
  • Engineering and Design Processes
  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • Developing and Testing Prototypes
  • The History of Technology

ALABAMA DLCS STANDARDS

Click on the icon below to see the Alabama Digital Learning and Computer Science Standards.