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STEM is an approach to learning and development that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Through STEM, students develop key lessons used throughout life.

EL Learning (formerly Expeditionary Learning) believes that learning is active, challenging, meaningful, public, and collaborative. The EL model for teaching and learning challenges students to think critically and take active roles in classrooms and communities, resulting in higher achievement and greater engagement in their learning. The motto “we are crew, not passengers” guides us as we focus to build cultures of respect, responsibility, courage, and kindness – where students and staff are committed to quality work. 

Although the Montessori method feels dynamic and new, children have learned by its tenets for more than a century. Through her scientific observation and analysis, Dr. Montessori found that children have an innate desire to explore their environments and learn about the world. She also discovered that children learn most effectively by enhancing their natural periods of early learning in an environment where they feel supported and secure.  By allowing our youngsters to become responsible, resourceful and peaceful adults on their own terms, we help create a better world for everyone.

The STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, math) offer many opportunities for children to use their minds and hands to play, explore, and learn. Research shows that giving children exposure to quality, hands-on STEM learning opportunities are so important and familiarity with STEM concepts early on, is a key predictor of children’s school success.

In short, all children learn differently and all three education methods do a number of things that we find amazingly useful to support the students and staff. So, by pulling our favorite ideas from each model and by letting the methods support and compliment one another; The Learning Nest curriculum gets stronger and we are able to support and engage our students better.

By nature, STEM education shares many of the hallmarks of Montessori and EL education. For instance, question-based and hands-on learning, critical thinking, open-ended exploration and applying self-initiative. It is also a natural place for Montessori and EL activities to occur. This is a result of encouraging students to be independent, curious and innovative. With careful planning, materials that fully engage a student’s senses and a curriculum that reinforces that everything is related, showing the connection of topics across the 4 main areas in STEM education while looking at each and every child uniquely.  

Research studies show that STEM children are well prepared for later life academically, socially, and emotionally. In addition to scoring well on standardized tests, STEM children are ranked above average on such criteria as following directions, turning in work on time, working well in a group and independently, using basic skills and adapting to new situations. STEM enables students to become proactive, inquisitive, confident, learn not to be fazed by failures and inculcate and nurture a love for learning.