Virtual reality is helping to bring complex math concepts to life through a new tool called CalcFlow.

According to Singularity Hub, the impressive new tool could very well signify a change in how math is taught--and consequentially understood.

"VR math simulations are going to change the way we think about numbers and their connection to our lives. They're going to create incredibly engaging experiences. And they will forever reshape how we teach and learn mathematics," says Jason Ganz, CEO of Agora VR and contributor for Singularity Hub.

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Parents Who Simply Talk to Their Children About STEM Boost Their Achievement, Study Finds

A new study from researchers at the University of Chicago has found that parents who actively tell their children about the benefits of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math are likely to significantly increase their child's achievement in said fields.

The findings "show a 12 percentage point increase on the math and science ACT for students whose parents were provided with information on how to effectively convey the importance of science, technology, engineering and math," said Science Daily.

"The same students also are likely to be more interested in pursuing STEM careers, including taking STEM classes in college and having a favorable impression of the fields."

The researchers urge local and state leaders to take advantage of the study's findings by encouraging parents to help "improve the STEM motivation and preparation of students."

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New STEM Curriculum Uses Local Weather Data to Teach Students

Earth Networks in partnership with WeatherSTEM have announced a new digital curriculum that exposes students to an exciting science topic: weather.

"WeatherSTEM powered by Earth Networks combines real-time observations from Earth Networks' global network of climate, lightning, and greenhouse gas monitoring sensors with the WeatherSTEM safety alert platform to provide schools with a next generation weather data-based STEM curriculum while protecting students against dangerous weather events," said WeatherSTEM in a statement.

Further, the curriculum uses customized weather stations to measure real-life conditions around the students' school.

The curriculum also provides a unique opportunity for classrooms to engage with their communities; "every WeatherSTEM weather station has its own social media presence and can send out automated information on Twitter or Facebook about the weather at the school/organization on a set schedule."

Read more about the new digital curriculum here.

You Can Inspire Your Student to Be America's Top Young Scientist

Do you know a student who is passionate about and skilled in science? You can now recommend him or her to be America's Top Young Scientist through a competition started by Discovery Education and 3M.

To enter, students must submit a one- to two-minute-long video describing an idea that uses science to benefit their local, national or global community.

The first-prize winner will not only earn the title of top scientist, he or she will also earn a $25,000 cash prize.

Find out more about how to enter here.

Nicole Gorman, Senior Education World Contributor

1/19/2017

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