The 2024 Invention Convention Worldwide has come to a close at the Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan. Despite its conclusion, the stories of student inventions and innovators like Jay Flores, founder of Invent the Change and “It’s Not Magic, It’s Science,” continue to be shared.
Last year, NewsHour Classroom had the chance to interview Flores about his teaching methods in STEM education. He emphasizes connecting STEM concepts to students’ passions to ensure equity in education through easy-to-use activities that help students understand and engage with these important topics. You can watch a video of Flores discussing his teaching methods and the brainstorming process, including his appearance on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior. If you’re interested in getting your students involved in Invention Convention, you can find more information on how to participate.
If you want to be part of the Invention Education community, there are opportunities available such as NewsHour Classroom’s Invention Teacher Fellowship, curriculum writing and testing, and fun Zoom meetings with real inventors and education teachers. You can explore NewsHour Classroom’s free invention education lesson collection to get started. If you have an idea for an Educator Voice article or a Zoom show for NewsHour Classroom, contact vpasquantonio@newshour.org. Stay updated on the latest Daily News Lessons from NewsHour Classroom by signing up. This post was written by Benjamin Thernstrom, a senior at Washington-Liberty High School and intern with PBS NewsHour Classroom, and NewsHour’s Vic Pasquantonio.