Nanoscience Research Modules as a Vehicle for STEM Education for African American Preservice Teachers

• In Event: Roundtable Session 33
  In Roundtable Session: Remaining STEM and STEAM Teach Preparation

Abstract

The American future depends on a scientifically literate workforce, armed with knowledge about the laws and theories of science, based on empirical facts instead of beliefs. However, many teachers are not scientifically literate, and especially in impoverished schools. The teacher’s ability to assist high-poverty students during STEM project-based activities is especially significant. These teachers must demonstrate the ability to actualize cutting-edge STEM activities and use them as a foundation for project and problem-based learning. Nanoscience is the unifying concept that spans all scientific content areas and points the way to the future. This study provides African-American pre-service STEM teachers with a Manual of Nanoscience Modules to use in the training of teachers, and ultimately in K-12 classrooms across America.

Authors

• Clair T. Berube, Hampton University

• Shawn T. Dash, Hampton University