Building STEM Identity: How Smart Labs Prepare Students for Future Careers

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4d ago 44:22

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In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Dr. Jennifer Barry, CEO of SmartLab, discusses the importance of STEM education and the concept of STEM identity, which emphasizes students' self-belief and belonging in the STEM fields. She shares her journey into education, the role of educators in fostering a productive learning environment, and the necessity of community involvement in creating sustainable STEM ecosystems. Dr. Barry highlights the significance of hands-on, project-based learning and the need for continuous support and training for educators to ensure long-term success in STEM education.

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Key Takeaways:

Fostering STEM Identity: Building students' confidence and sense of belonging in STEM disciplines creates a foundation for lifelong learning.
Creating Supportive Environments: The physical space and skilled facilitators together create the optimal conditions for STEM discovery and growth.
Engaging the Community: Sustainable STEM programs thrive when businesses, families, and schools collaborate to support student learning.
Breaking Classroom Boundaries: Effective STEM education connects classroom learning with real-world applications and community resources.
Prioritizing Hands-On Learning: Project-based approaches allow students to physically engage with concepts, leading to deeper understanding.
Supporting Educator Growth: Continuous professional development ensures teachers can confidently guide students through evolving STEM challenges.
Building Integrated Systems: Successful STEM education harmonizes physical environment, curriculum design, and community partnerships.
Including Parents as Partners: Family involvement reinforces STEM learning and helps students see its relevance in everyday life.
Preparing Future-Ready Students: Today's STEM education develops the critical thinking and adaptability needed for tomorrow's careers.
Harnessing the Power of Narrative: Stories about STEM applications and innovations help students envision their own potential contributions.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to SmartLab and Dr. Jennifer Barry
01:57 The Journey to SmartLab: Dr. Barry's Background
05:38 Understanding STEM Identity and Its Importance
09:29 The Role of Educators in STEM Learning
13:34 Creating a Sustainable STEM Ecosystem
18:42 Community Involvement in STEM Education
21:51 The Future of STEM in Education
26:37 Observing Student Growth in SmartLab
32:24 Expanding STEM Opportunities Beyond Elementary School
36:51 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

About our Guest: Dr. Jennifer Berry

Dr. Jennifer Berry is the Chief Executive Officer for SmartLab. She has an extensive track record leading innovation and growth in multiple top K-12 education businesses, and will further CLS’s mission to transform the lives of future generations through innovative, career-focused STEM education solutions. Dr. Berry has spent the last 15+ years in senior leadership positions for prominent K-12 organizations including Presence, After-School All-Stars, Quantum Learning, and Kaplan. Dr. Berry holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California (USC), and her commitment to education is inspired by her daughter and a love of lifelong learning. She is a resident of San Diego, California.

A student's STEM identity is their self-belief that they belong in STEM, can master rigorous challenges, and can make a meaningful impact. It's not a fixed trait—it's a mindset that develops through repeated moments of success, challenge, and recognition. At SmartLab, we treat STEM identity as a critical outcome of learning, not just an added benefit.

About Company

Since 1987, Creative Learning Systems has pioneered converting traditional learning environments to project-based learning experiences. Today, CLS partners with the most innovative school leaders nationwide to implement learning solutions that increase a student’s capacity through engaged, active, and social problem-solving. Our mission is to ensure that today’s students will be tomorrow’s leaders, prepared and ready to solve the complex challenges in our ever-changing world.

Links of Interest

Website: https://www.smartlablearning.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-learning-systems/

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