Simplifying STEM [6-12]: Four Equitable Practices to Inspire Meaningful Learning

"While the field of integrated STEM is still relatively new, several schools and teacher preparation programs have increased their focus on integrated STEM education, which is defined as using multiple STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, and math) to collaboratively solve real-world problems with the ultimate goal of increasing students' STEM literacy. Despite structural siloing of the STEM subjects in middle and high schools, teachers are being encouraged more and more to work across departments to implement STEM within their instruction, but many may not be aware of what high-quality STEM experiences look like, sound like, or feel like in the classroom. This book is designed for teachers, coaches, and instructional leaders of mathematics, science, engineering, and/or technology to students in grades 6-12, who are integrating two or more STEM content areas into their lessons"--
Start, focus, or extend your integrated STEM education journey with an authentic interdisciplinary perspective!In response to calls for active STEM learning that builds students’ agency and sense of belonging, teachers and leaders are being encouraged more and more to equitably implement integrated STEM instruction. This practical guidebook is designed to help educators create integrated STEM learning experiences that are inclusive for all students and allows them to experience STEM as scientists, innovators, mathematicians, creators, engineers, and technology experts!Addressing the STEM status quo and promoting inclusiveness in STEM fields, the authors center their work around the Equity-Oriented Conceptual Framework for STEM Literacy, which provides high-quality integrated strategies to connect students' lived experiences to STEM learning. Simplifying STEM provides a ground-breaking model of the four Integrated STEM Practices (ISPs) to ensure coherent and aligned teaching across disciplines through authentic opportunities to meaningfully engage students.Learn how to simplify STEM with these four equitable practices to inspire deep learning Use critical and creative thinking to seek solutions Collaborate and use appropriate tools to engage in iterative design Communicate solutions based on evidence and data Recognize and use structures in real-world systemsIncluding a STEM planning guide as well as instructional strategies and assessments for standard alignment, this is an essential resource for any educator seeking to empower their students with meaningful STEM learning experiences. The book includes an online implementation toolkit to give educators opportunities for powerful professional development built on collaboration and connection.