Teacher Picks: SeaMATE Store Favorites for Hands-On STEM Learning
For educators looking to bring hands-on STEM learning into their classrooms, the SeaMATE Store offers a range of ROV kits that make engineering and marine technology accessible and engaging. This month, we’re highlighting “Teacher Picks” from two experienced educators who regularly use SeaMATE products to inspire the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.
John, Tybee Island Maritime Academy
Top Pick: Pufferfish ROV Kit
John McDonald recommends the Pufferfish ROV Kit as the best option for new students entering his program. The kit introduces essential STEM skills, including soldering and troubleshooting, which help students develop critical problem-solving abilities.
“These kits have taught students how to solder and problem-solve. The experience of having to find and fix issues has helped them grow in class,” says John.
A particularly memorable moment in his classroom came when students took the course for a second time to compete again, this time using the Triggerfish Kit. Their passion for ROVs and the hands-on experience provided by the kits kept them engaged and eager to learn more.
What do students love most about working with SeaMATE kits? “The hands-on experience—especially learning about electricity, soldering, and building circuits,” John shares.
For educators considering incorporating SeaMATE kits into their curriculum, John highly recommends them, stating, “It keeps students engaged and gives them a purpose in class. They love to compete!”
Raegan, STEM Academy @ Bartlett
Top Pick: Pufferfish ROV Kit
For Raegan, the Pufferfish ROV Kit is an ideal choice for her classroom. She particularly appreciates the included practice board and the extensive online resources available on the SeaMATE website, which make it easier for teachers to implement the kits into their curriculum.
Raegan uses the Pufferfish kit to teach systems and problem-solving throughout the school year. She emphasizes that while building the robots is a challenge, the struggle makes success even more rewarding. “Failure is my best story,” she says. “The robot is a struggle, but when they finally get it to run… they are so excited!”
Her students’ favorite part? Soldering! Like John’s students, they enjoy the hands-on aspect of working with circuits and seeing their work come to life.
For educators hesitant about tackling ROV building, Raegan reassures that SeaMATE kits are affordable and well-supported, making them accessible even to those without prior experience. “Even if a teacher is not totally comfortable building something so complex, SeaMATE kits provide the support to do it,” she explains.
Why SeaMATE?
Both educators agree—SeaMATE kits keep students engaged, encourage teamwork, and build real-world STEM skills. Whether students are learning to solder for the first time or fine-tuning their troubleshooting skills for competition, these kits offer an exciting and educational experience that extends beyond the classroom.
Are you using SeaMATE kits in your classroom? We’d love to hear your story! Share your experiences with us for a chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter.