If there’s one topic making buzz in the STEM education world, it’s remote learning. The field has been brought into the spotlight – and for obvious reasons. Between the catalyst event of a global pandemic and the fast advancements in technology fueling the fire, we’re seeing a strong and sudden shift away from the dominance of traditional learning environments. But the unprecedented change leaves us with much to celebrate – alongside some lingering misconceptions about its usage in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
In this article, we’ll consider four of those prevalent misconceptions and myths about remote teaching and learning and discuss how they’re debunked with modern educational tools and science virtual lab solutions – like those provided through the Mentis Sciences Engineering Toolkit (MSET).
Misconception 1: Remote Learning Lacks Hands-on Experience
When it comes to understanding important scientific principles – from the basics to those more complex – hands-on experience is an indispensable learning tool. Observation is a powerful teacher in the world of STEM! But – does remote learning truly lack the opportunities to offer this experience to students?
In fact, no! Modern science virtual lab solutions such as the MSET meet this need. These kits are designed to cater to different educational levels and needs – so students can perform experiments from the convenience of their homes (or from wherever they choose to learn).
Whether these experiments involve materials testing (like tension, buckling, and dynamic impact) to physics experiments involving friction, density, and simple harmonic motion, the MSET can help students interact with science concepts in a practical manner. Amplifying learning experiences is possible when learners can apply hands-on experiments and connect the theory provided in their remote education to a tangible practice.
Misconception 2: Remote Learning is Too Expensive
Here’s a myth to unpack – STEM learning relies heavily on cost-prohibitive equipment to be effective, and remote learners could never replicate the experience to its true effect. Mentis Sciences has considered these concerns, too – and it prompted the need for our affordable, yet versatile solution. The MSET allows an almost endless number of experiments to be conducted, covering a variety of material types and science disciplines. With unmatched functionality, the kit offers plenty of accessible experiences for STEM learners.
The MSET’s cost varies based on specific selections, but overall, the kit aims to offer an affordable solution for a range of budgets. Plus, there’s a massive impact to be had in the remote classroom – the value provided by these kits isn’t just in their initial affordability, but in their expandability. The MSET boasts an array of experiments that can be added on, providing both excellent value for your money along with an ability to grow along with the students’ educational journey. It may be one resource – but it offers a whole world of possibility.
Misconception 3: Remote Learning is Too Complicated
If you’re worried that setting up and operating experiments can be too complex for students to handle remotely, don’t be alarmed! This roadblock has been considered in the creation of the MSET – which provides comprehensive yet user-friendly documentation. Each kit comes prepared with an operation manual, and each experiment is accompanied by an instructor information manual and detailed experiment procedure document. All bases are covered, from background information to setup instructions, procedures, data acquisition, and analysis. All in all, we aim to make the full process as simple as possible for remote learners.
The kits are designed, first and foremost, for intuitive use that puts the learning process first. Whether it's being used at the middle school, high school, or college level, the instructions and operations are tailored appropriately and accordingly.
Need further support? Mentis Sciences hosts an MSET resource center, too. This space features instructional videos and a support page where users can submit their questions to a representative for additional assistance. We’re here to assist your learning journey, each step of the way!
Misconception 4: Remote Learning Lacks Customizability
Ever wonder if remote learning opportunities are too rigid for the needs of the modern classroom? Each student is different, and it’s clear that adaptability is key to STEM learning. Being able to meet the unique needs of each learning experience can help define success – in the physical classroom or outside its walls. MSET overcomes this limitation by offering an impressive degree of customization. Specific experiment suites can easily be tailored to the needs of a class or even an individual student. Plus, you’ll find custom color schemes available, too! Here, you’ll find a learning experience that can be catered to changing needs, adding a new level of ease to finding an engaging educational journey.
As remote learning continues to evolve and shape the educational landscape, it's crucial to confront these misconceptions about the remote classroom and address how the right toolset can actually work in favor of students’ needs. Understanding the potential of science virtual lab solutions helps us appreciate the true value and impact that the hands-on experiences can have on STEM education – and can help us drive the highest quality of educational opportunities available for our learners.
In the realm of remote STEM education, the MSET by Mentis Sciences aims to serve as an invaluable asset to students by providing interactive, affordable, and user-friendly learning experiences. Our kits foster curiosity, promote innovation, and facilitate the development of practical skills – and it can do it all from the comfort of a student’s home! We aim to help shape the engineers and scientists of tomorrow, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and contribute to an increasingly technological world.
To learn more about the MSET and how it might benefit your remote learners, visit our website or connect with our team for further information today.
