Image

TV-Show-Inspired Website Cultivates STEM Experience

April 5, 2016
PBS’s Design Squad, a television series repurposed into an interactive website, now includes Design Squad Global (DSG), where kids from all around the world can share engineering and STEM ideas.

1. Design Squad Global lets kids explore engineering solutions from all over the world.

PBS’s Design Squad, a television series repurposed into an interactive website, now includes Design Squad Global (DSG), where kids from all around the world can share engineering and STEM ideas. DSG expands cross-cultural understanding among participants and raises awareness about global issues that are solvable using available resources. Geared toward parents, educators, and kids ages 8 to 13, the redesigned site was launched this February. It is supported by the National Science Foundation and the Lemelson Foundation.

Visiting Design Squad Global, I found myself having a lot of fun. The videos were funny, informative, and applicable. The site also provides a range of games, such as Don’t Flood the Fidgets, where kids design a city that will be protected in the case of flooding. 

Shown here are the six latest hands-on projects that can be done at home. There are many more.

One of the most impressive features of the site is the expanding library of creative DIY projects. Those taking part in the projects use everyday items and tools to build functional end products or parts that demonstrate fundamental physics or engineering concepts. Featuring clear step-by-step instructions with pictures for easy, medium, and hard projects, the projects can also be extremely useful for STEM educators.

Furthermore, Design Squad Global has a newsletter so that parents and educators can stay up to date on new videos and projects.

The executive producer of this new online hub explains, "There is a growing awareness that technical skills alone aren't enough to compete in a global economy. The call for equipping young people with what's needed to live in today's world—defined by the digital revolution and unprecedented human migration—is dominating education today. Design Squad Global is meeting that call." 

About the Author

Leah Scully | Associate Content Producer

Leah Scully is a graduate of The College of New Jersey. She has a BS degree in Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical specialization.  Leah is responsible for Machine Design’s news items that cover industry trends, research, and applied science and engineering, along with product galleries. Visit her on Facebook, or view her profile on LinkedIn

Sponsored Recommendations

Flexible Power and Energy Systems for the Evolving Factory

Aug. 29, 2024
Exploring industrial drives, power supplies, and energy solutions to reduce peak power usage and installation costs, & to promote overall system efficiency

Timber Recanting with SEW-EURODRIVE!

Aug. 29, 2024
SEW-EURODRIVE's VFDs and gearmotors enhance timber resawing by delivering precise, efficient cuts while reducing equipment stress. Upgrade your sawmill to improve safety, yield...

Advancing Automation with Linear Motors and Electric Cylinders

Aug. 28, 2024
With SEW‑EURODRIVE, you get first-class linear motors for applications that require direct translational movement.

Gear Up for the Toughest Jobs!

Aug. 28, 2024
Check out SEW-EURODRIVEs heavy-duty gear units, built to power through mining, cement, and steel challenges with ease!

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!