8 STEAM TED Talks Worth Watching

TED talks were all the rave a while back, and for good reason. They are an interesting and excellent source of information, (though it is important to note that they typically reflect the presenter’s view) that can introduce you to new things and ways of thinking about the world.

TED talks discuss everything under the sun. There is no subject that has been left untouched. This is great news for us STEAM lovers since there have been many intriguing and inspiring presentations that are worth listening to. We’ve complied the best here.

From STEM to STEAM: How the Arts Introduced Me to Science
This inspiring talk will show you the importance of the A in STEAM. The speaker is Mandy Thornquest, a teenager, who shares her experience with dance and how it inspires her to strive for an interdisciplinary education.

The Future is STEAM-Y, But What About Inclusion?
The stats aren’t good now, but there is a lot we can do to change them. African Americans, Native Americans and Hispanics have poor STEAM enrollment rate. What are the issues surrounding this and what can we do to help them?

Let’s Teach Kids to Code
Coding doesn’t have to be complicated. Mitch Resnick of MIT breaks coding down into a simple way that makes it fun. He shows that it doesn’t take much to get creative with technology.

How Simple Ideas Lead to Scientific Discoveries
Everyone is capable of creating something great. Everyone is also capable of taking their thoughts and generating them into something that can be profound.

The Art of Science and the Science of Art
This talk seamlessly integrates these two usually separate subjects. Ikumi is able to take her passion and turn it into something profitable and educational. She is an inspiration to students everywhere.

Moving Sculpture
Another fascinating discussion about how science and art are intertwined. Arthur Ganson uses kinetic metal art in the form of sculptures to explore philosophical ideas.

Let’s Use Video to Reinvent Education
This is one for teachers who are looking to up their game and try something a little different. The buzzword “flipped classroom” really applies here.

The Cockroach Beatbox
A great one to show the kids and introduce them to neuroscience! They will be enthralled and fascinated for the entire talk, as will you be.

There are both talks about STEAM specifically, and talks that are related to STEAM subjects. The titles and short descriptions of the talks should give you a good idea as to the content matter. Some are perfect for educators while others are great to show to students to get them inspired.

Though not as popular as they once were, TED talk events still occur. If you ever have the opportunity to attend an event in your area, it’s highly recommended. You can stay updated on this page.