STEM (short for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is a terrific area of study. Its emphases on innovation, creation and problem-solving have real-world benefits, helping ensure our future is brighter, more efficient and advanced. And on a practical level, STEM degrees set students on a pipeline toward well-paying, satisfying jobs.

If that school-aged person in your life – whether it’s a child, nephew or acquaintance – shows an interest in STEM-related fields, the best thing you can do for them is encourage their passion.

Here are a few types of online resources that you can direct them toward to help them nurture their interests, get ahead in their studies, and start changing the world!

Learn Programming at an Online Coding Camp

Virtually every facet of modern life is, in one way or another, dependent on code. It’s what breathes life into our mobile apps; it’s how banks manage transactions; it underpins logistics, medicine, sales… you name it. Behind every digital interface in our lives, a programmer is hard at work.

If your young STEM enthusiast is interested in learning more about coding, consider an online camp. These online meeting places put young people in direct contact with experienced coders and like-minded peers to understand the complicated craft of creating something extraordinary from a few simple lines of text.

Get Ahead in STEM-Related Subjects at an Online High School

If your young math and science wiz feels unchallenged by their current coursework, consider an online high school. Online schools are self-paced and flexible, meaning they allow gifted students to work ahead in advanced grades. It’s a fantastic opportunity for a student to spread their wings and flex their STEM muscles without feeling hampered by a slow classroom pace.

Look for ministry-inspected online schools that grant credits toward a diploma. In particular, draw their attention to challenging courses like Grade 11 Physics and MHF4U Grade 12 Advanced Functions. Completing these courses sooner puts your STEM student in a better position to apply for competitive university programs.

Try Interactive Experiments on a Science Simulator

Post-secondary institutions like the University of Colorado (among others) offer a free science experiment simulator for curious young minds.

These “sims” include a wide range of experiments and learning opportunities. Students can build a nucleus, test the Archimedes Principle with buoyant objects, fiddle around with gene expressions, peer at the inner workings of the human eye, or add mutations and environmental factors to a closed population of rabbits to view Darwinian theory in action – all from the comfort of their home computer!

Meet Likeminded STEM Enthusiasts on Forums and Meetup Groups

Sometimes, genius just needs a friend. Luckily, you can find several online forums and Meetup groups tailored toward discussing STEM from a high-school-aged perspective. Peruse the various subreddits on Reddit to find communities of experts swapping knowledge and asking questions. Or browse online communities that meet locally to chat about STEM.

Please note that sites like Meetup (which coordinates actual, real-world meetings with people) should be used under the supervision of an adult.

These resources are perfect for fostering curiosity, spurring science-related enthusiasm, and fast-tracking your STEM lover’s education. The only thing left to do is sit back and watch them flourish.  

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