STEM Education: Why? & How?

ySTEM

Over the past few days, I have been evaluating and reevaluating my work in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education. With over 10,000 hours delivering STEM content, I found myself asking "why am I doing this, why am I teaching STEM, why is this so important?"  These are no random questions.  They actually come at a time when strategic planning is the number one priority for my nonprofit organization (Uplift, Inc.). Uplift, Inc. applied for and was selected to be a Fair Chance partner for the next year.  Fair Chance is a nonprofit that helps organizations serving children in wards 5, 6, 7, and 8 in Washington, DC.  Our projects certainly fit the bill.  As a matter of fact, we are one of few organizations that provide STEM education to students in these wards (this is … [Read more...]

Robotics in DC

I recently started teaching a Robotics course at a charter school in DC.  The course will progress through the school year as 2 classes of 5th & 6th grade students work toward designing and constructing robots.  I've created a bunch of avenues for the public to stay abreast of our progress, all centrally linked from our class website http://roboticsindc.wordpress.com. I enjoy teaching them a great deal!  It's like food for the soul.  I haven't been in a classroom with Black 5th & 6th graders since the late 90s.  They are truly a joy to work with!  Check us out from time to time. … [Read more...]