Matthew Hayden, a teacher in Bristol Township School District for 25 years and an alumnus, published the book Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead: Unlocking the Power of STEM Content in Your Schools. Currently, Hayden is a technology teacher at Neil A. Armstrong Middle School, where he teaches Robotics, and Innovators and Makers.
“S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) is a current item a lot of teachers and schools are looking to add or incorporate more of into their lessons,” said Hayden.
Classrooms and schools are also filled with students who were raised on technology. Plus, the pandemic brought a lot of new devices and technology into the mix. Hayden felt it was the perfect time to write the book.
“It’s been a passion project of mine for a few years now that I’ve always been thinking about in the back of my mind,” he said.
Hayden started writing the book this past winter break and published it on June 5 through Kindle Direct Publishing.
Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead teaches students how to integrate S.T.E.A.M. lessons into existing programs or create new ones. Educators across all levels can apply the book in their classrooms. Parents or caregivers with students especially interested in technology may find the book insightful.
“One of the main things the book teaches is to have a broader definition of what technology and sciences are,” said Hayden. “It can be the way of thinking, the level of communication, and the willingness to step back and look at a problem from different angles.”
The book incorporates the 21st Century four Cs that are vital skills to succeed and learn: Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Creativity. Additionally, Hayden discusses Computational Thinking, or problem-solving the way a computer would, which includes methods that can be used in all areas of academics. Throughout the book, Hayden incorporates his own examples and stories.
“I have no problem trying new things, making mistakes and taking risks,” said Hayden. “I feel comfortable going outside my comfort zone in teaching and learning, and that’s what I want to impart on others. It’s something this district has really allowed me to do as a student and a teacher.”
Hayden hopes the book encourages others to try new things and take risks too.
“I hope they share those outcomes whether it’s positive or negative, so we can all learn from it and improve,” he said.
Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead is available to purchase as a Kindle ebook or paperback on Amazon. It is expected to be released as an audiobook on Audible in mid-July.
