“Of all the investments we make in educational technology, the SmartLab has been the most effective in actually putting technology in the hands of our students.”

Dr. Velma Villegas
Superintendent, Southwest Independent School District

About Creative Learning Systems

Creative Learning Systems develops 21st century STEM and media labs for schools. We call them SmartLabs™. Every SmartLab program is custom designed to meet the needs of each unique school community. We work in close collaboration with each partner school to ensure the success of each SmartLab program – through design, implementation, professional development and world-class ongoing support. Since creating the first technology lab in a U.S. school in 1987, the company’s SmartLab learning systems have set the standard for integrating technology and academics. We are committed to innovation, pioneering STEM, digital media production and alternative energy exploration programs for schools.

While the technologies behind our learning solutions continue to evolve, our educational philosophy remains consistent. Every SmartLab is grounded in a set of guiding principles:

• All learners require proficiency in STEM, not just our nation’s top math and science students. STEM learning resources must be adaptable to a wide range of abilities, learning styles and individual interests.
• Project-based, student-centered learning is a powerful way to engage learners and develop higher-order thinking skills.
• 21st century skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, collaboration and communication, project and resource management, creativity and adaptability are necessary to succeed in a fast-paced, global economy. Blending these skills with academic content is a uniquely effective way to enhance student performance.
• College and career readiness requires the ability to integrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics. A multidisciplinary approach that also integrates social studies, communication skills and the arts provides a powerful framework to engage learners in STEM.
• The application of technology to work flow is a critical and sustainable competency, whereas technology taught as a set of stand-alone skills offers only short-term value.
• Evaluation of higher-order thinking requires authentic assessment. Presentation and working portfolios provide a meaningful basis for assessment while developing necessary communication.

Together with our many partner schools across the country, Creative Learning Systems challenges and engages today’s learners while preparing them to succeed in a global economy.