Children Become Confident Creators Through Invention Education

As the world becomes ever more complex, there’s an even greater need for creative ideas and solutions. To address this, increasingly, educators across the country are turning to active forms of education that challenge students to solve real-world problems.

At the National Inventors Hall of Fame^® (NIHF), we have seen firsthand the power of active learning. For over 30 years we have developed innovative, hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) programming enjoyed by millions of children across the country.

Our approach to invention education, a powerful style of learning that invites students to create, prototype and market their very own inventions, instills crucial STEM skills, builds confidence and helps students develop their identities as confident creators.

Proven Creative Identity Exploration

According to a study published in the Journal of STEM Outreach, invention education has been shown to provide the ideal learning environment and context for creative identity exploration. Researchers found that children participating in this type of learning preferred activities that helped them feel confident, including novel elements that were relevant to their interests.

The effectiveness of this approach is backed by nationally recognized research published by Opportunity Insights, which found that the earlier children are exposed to innovation, the more likely they are to innovate as they grow. Because innovation often results from uncovering solutions that do not yet exist, students who have the chance to participate in this type of curricula build confidence in themselves as creative problem solvers.

Because all NIHF education programs are developed using lessons and stories from some of the world’s greatest inventors, our NIHF Inductees, children who participate in our programming have the opportunity to learn from diverse STEM role models who can encourage them to pursue further study in these fields.

Hear What Educators Are Saying About Invention Project

“As a classroom teacher I am always looking for new, innovative ideas to stimulate my students. I participated to explore new topics and interesting hands-on approaches to teaching.” Cottie J., Lake Charles, LA
 

“I believe it is vital for our students to be exposed to and experience the benefits of collaborating, the freedom to create and explore, and the exposure to other careers they may not have known about before.” Jamie G., Reno, NV
 

“All of the resources and materials provided were the best part. It makes things so easy to step in and teach students.” Lisa F., Eagle Mountain, UT

Learn How Invention Project Can Help Your Students Build Confidence

Are you looking for equitable PreK-8 STEM experiences for your district? NIHF is excited to announce our new Invention Project^® program, offering 25 unique modules that adapt to your in-school, afterschool or summer learning needs. Aligned with national and state learning standards, this flexible program can be implemented as an instructor-led or self-led experience and provides opportunities for authentic social-emotional learning.

To learn more about how we can customize a hands-on invention education program for your school or district, we invite you to visit our website.