Empowering STEM Innovators: A Strengths-Based Approach to Nurturing Talent in Underrepresented Populations
Monday, Feb 03, 2025
This comprehensive, full-day workshop combines two critical aspects of STEM education: supporting neurodiverse students and identifying underrepresented talent in STEM fields. The program is designed for K-12 educators seeking to create inclusive, culturally responsive STEM classrooms that nurture the innovators of tomorrow.
Morning Session:
Neurodiversity in STEM Education focuses on neurodiversity awareness and support strategies for STEM educators. Participants will:
- Explore the importance of neurodiversity in education, particularly in STEM fields
- Learn comprehensive strategies to address the needs of neurodiverse students
- Develop skills to promote inclusivity in STEM classrooms
Afternoon Session:
STEM Talent Search: Discovering and Nurturing Tomorrow's Innovators focuses on the exciting process of identifying and fostering the abilities of the STEM stars of tomorrow, with a particular focus on underrepresented student populations who are too often overlooked and mis-identified. The session will begin with a comprehensive discussion on defining STEM talent and understanding the societal and cultural barriers that may deter underrepresented students from pursuing STEM fields. Educators will then learn strategies for identifying and nurturing STEM talent in these student populations, gaining an understanding of the myriad ways STEM aptitude may present itself. The concluding segment of the workshop will be dedicated to engagement techniques and creating supportive environments for underrepresented students in STEM. It will provide strategies for motivation, resources for nurturing talent, the importance of mentorship, and guidance on building an inclusive STEM learning environment.