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TECH Quest Resource Center: Using Tech for Good

STEM Next’s TECH Quest Resource Center helps educators turn STEM learning into real-world problem solving by inviting young people to use technology to explore challenges that matter to them. These resources include practical activities and educator stories to help afterschool and summer programs bring this approach into their own learning environments.

TECH Quest Activity Bundle

STEM Next has developed this activity bundle for youth in grades 5-8  to use technology to make a real impact. The lessons are designed as a “quick start” for afterschool and summer learning program providers looking to bring TECH Quest into their programs.

Three students in a classroom sit at desks using microscopes. The student in the center looks toward the camera and smiles while others focus on their work. The background shows colorful charts and bulletin boards.

Be the Voice of Science

Learn how science communication helps others learn about scientific topics by creating a science communication piece using Keynote to explain a complex scientific idea clearly and creatively.

Go to Activity
A smiling child wearing a beanie and yellow sweater examines green leaves with a magnifying glass in a sunlit, leafy outdoor setting.

Planet Protectors

Take on the role of Earth and Space Scientists to explore how scientific discoveries help us understand and protect our planet. Youth will use creativity, teamwork, and technology tools to communicate their findings effectively.

Go to Activity
A young girl sits at a table using a tablet with a keyboard, exploring AI literacy, while an adult man sits beside her, watching attentively. Classroom drawings are visible on the wall behind them.

AI for Good

Explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used and apply creative problem-solving to design an AI-powered idea that makes a positive impact in the school or community.

Go to Activity

How STEM Next and Apple Are Scaling Technology Education in Afterschool

Impact in Action

Through the Apple Tech & Careers Community of Practice, program leaders have been engaging in hands-on learning, coaching, and collaborative planning that equips them to serve as trainers and mentors for other afterschool educators. As they gain experience implementing practices with youth, they share what works with others, helping extend these practices across programs to reach more young people.

Read the Story
A child holds a tablet, taking a photo or video of classmates and a teacher at the front of a bright classroom while other children look on or participate in the activity.

What Educators are Saying about TECH Quest

“The impact I hope to see is youth becoming more confident in exploring STEM topics and sharing what they discover. If students can document their thinking and communicate ideas, it helps them start to see themselves as participants in STEM.”

Nancy Coddington

Creative Director, SciComm Solutions

“I’m in love with the [TECH Quest] framework. I truly understand the high-quality academic engagement that transpires from engaging, investigating, and [taking] action.”

Jeremy Smith

Executive Director, Freedom Scholars Learning Center, Inc.