Each STC PROGRAM unit is based on a four-stage learning cycle that is grounded in research on how children learn. The learning cycle developed for STC includes the following steps:

• Focus

Students and teachers focus on what students already know about a topic and develop new goals for learning through brainstorming and discussion

• Explore

Students engage in hands-on exploration that builds upon their previous knowledge

• Reflect

Students analyze their observations and data, review their original ideas related to the phenomena investigated, and provide evidence for their explanations of what they have observed

• Apply

Students apply their recently developed understanding of science concepts to new situations.