By Joëlle Walls
Published in GoSTEAM's A Program in Review 2018-2024
The upper elementary classrooms at Edwin S. Kemp Elementary School embarked on a tiny house design challenge idea in year two of the school’s GoSTEAM participation, which evolved into a project-based learning unit, integrating various aspects of STEAM instruction.
For example, fourth graders used persuasive language and informational writing to create online ads for the homes. Fifth graders enhanced the tiny home models built by incorporating smart technology, including LED lights that responded to songs all the students coded using EarSketch.
Fourth grade teacher Justin Watts and fifth grade teacher Nicole Sanders found the project fun and engaging, resulting in sustained student engagement throughout the process.
“All the students, including the English language learners, eagerly built the smart homes from kits we purchased,” said Watts, who teaches reading and social studies. “They chose their teams, defined roles, and collaborated effectively, becoming classroom leaders and helping other groups troubleshoot issues.”
“For teachers, it’s about student engagement. Incorporating STEAM into the classroom is essential to grab their attention and ensure they grasp the concepts,” added Sanders, who teaches math and science. “We’re preparing students for future jobs that do not exist yet by teaching them to think critically now in every area.”
Over the last year, Georgia Tech undergraduate Jahwill Fannings served as the innovator-in-residence at Kemp Elementary. Fannings, a business administration and management major, became familiar with GoSTEAM after presenting at STEAM Innovation Day in 2023. As a self-employed music mixing engineer, he demonstrated to over 250 students how to produce music on mobile devices and compose lyrics using artificial intelligence.
“My role as a workshop host became an opportunity for me to become an innovator later on,” said Fannings, who guided fourth- and fifth-grade students in creating a song for the school’s annual music video. “The students were genuinely interested in my journey and success with my music studio. I’ve not only made a living but also pursued my passion. It was important to show them that being inquisitive can help turn their talent into a STEAM-inspired career!”
Fourth grade teacher Jasmine Avril praised Fannings’ interactions with her students when he collaborated with music teacher Shannon Ladson during specials to teach music theory. “We absolutely adore Jahwill! He’s such a bright light and we all lit up when he was in the building,” Avril said. “He really connected with the kids.”
