From Nature to Innovation: How Students Used Biomimicry to Solve Human Problems (PBL and STEM Education)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fumAknnkTg

Biomimicry, they developed nature-inspired solutions to real human problems.

This project, co-designed with my colleague Tracy Blair, was an experiment in meaningful transfer of learning—moving beyond just understanding concepts to applying them in new, complex contexts.

NGSS & Core Concepts

Our unit was anchored in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for 4th Grade, specifically focusing on:

  • Structure & Function: How internal/external structures support survival and growth.
  • Information Processing: How animals receive and respond to sensory information.
  • Cause & Effect and Systems: Understanding the relationships within natural systems.

We started by asking, "Why do animals and plants need structures?" Through observation and experiments, students learned that every beak, leaf vein, and stem has a specific function for survival.

Introducing Biomimicry

Once students understood nature's designs, we introduced biomimicry—learning from nature to solve human challenges. We looked at real-world examples:

  • Gecko-inspired adhesives for wall-climbing.
  • Self-cleaning paint mimicking the lotus leaf.
  • Bullet trains shaped like bird beaks to reduce noise and increase speed.

Inspired, students identified their own "How Might We" questions:

  • ie. How might we stop mosquitoes from biting us?
  • ie. How might we help children not wet the bed?

Connecting Sensors to Senses

To deepen the project, we connected animal senses to technology. Just as a cat's eye processes light to see a predator, a home security system uses sensors to detect movement.

We introduced the micro:bit and Hummingbird robotics kits. Students learned that sensors (light, sound, distance) are the technological equivalent of biological sensory receptors. This opened up a new realm of possibilities: Could we mimic a bat’s echolocation using ultrasonic sensors?

Prototyping & Rapid Iteration

Students sketched blueprints and moved into rapid iteration. We emphasized that prototypes aren't just about building; they are for thinking and communicating.

Some incredible student inventions included:

  • The Pelican Scoop: A trash-collecting device for rivers mimicking a pelican’s beak.
  • The Anglerfish Hamper: A laundry basket with a light to attract "prey" (dirty clothes), encouraging kids to tidy up.
  • The Echolocation Hat: A device using sensors to help with safe distancing, mimicking a bat.

Finally, students had to communicate their ideas. We watched Shark Tank pitches to learn how to present with passion and clarity. If you can't sell the value of your idea, it remains just an idea.

Thank you for reading! If you want to see the full journey, check out the video on my channel. Peace!

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