Community-Informed STEM Learning

Session Type: Working Group Roundtable

Abstract

Communities hold a multitude of STEM knowledge, yet that knowledge is rarely leveraged in STEM learning. In this roundtable, we consider how STEM knowledge derived from lived experiences might enhance formal and informal STEM learning. We also explore the design of STEM learning environments and experiences that are infused with community-based science knowledge. Utilizing research projects that engage community STEM knowledge, we will facilitate discussion around a focal question: In what ways is community-informed STEM learning useful, and why? We will then explore, with attendees, design considerations when engaging in this work. This roundtable is intended to convene researchers interested in including community-based STEM knowledge into STEM learning and offer both theoretical and practical support for doing so.

Sub Unit

• Division C - Learning and Instruction / Division C - Section 1d: Science

Chair

• Heather Killen, University at Buffalo - SUNY

Papers

• Strengthening Pre-Service Elementary Science Education with Community Storytelling - Ari Hock, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Tracing Purpose(s) in Practice: A case study of community-centered grassroots engineering in northern Tanzania - Maximilian Sherard, University of North Texas; Jessie Zarazaga, Southern Methodist University

• Designing Meaningful Computing Education for Diaspora Youth - Yeshi Paljor, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Contextualizing Institutional Data with Lived Experience: Collaborative mapping to catalyze data science learning and engagement - Heather Killen, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• How STEM Learning Impacts Indigenous Students’ Use of Community in Self-Identification - Victor Begay, Cascadia College

Session Organizer

• Heather Killen, University at Buffalo - SUNY