Abstract

In a world where technological advancements and scientific discoveries shape our future, the role of educators in guiding young minds, especially those of Black and Latina women, towards a STEM-oriented path is crucial. Our speech, “Empowering Black and Latina Young Women through STEM: Cultivating Identity and Innovation,” is dedicated to inspiring educators to foster an inclusive and supportive STEM environment in their classrooms, one that not only teaches STEM subjects but also embeds them into the very culture of learning. At the heart our presentation is the concept of ‘STEM identity,’ particularly for Black and Latina young women. This involves guiding these young women to discover and embrace their unique STEM identities by connecting STEM with their personal interests and cultural experiences. By highlighting relatable role models and contextual examples that resonate with their backgrounds, educators can dismantle the barriers that often discourage Black and Latina young women from pursuing STEM fields. The speech emphasizes that STEM is not just a subject but a diverse and dynamic culture that transcends traditional educational boundaries. We will share innovative strategies for educators to seamlessly integrate STEM into their lessons, discussions, and classroom ethos, with a focus on inclusivity and representation. These strategies will include practical examples of how to transform everyday topics into engaging STEM learning experiences that are particularly relevant and inspiring for Black and Latina students. A key part of the presentation is the exploration of problem-based learning, where students address real-world challenges through a STEM lens. This approach is instrumental in not only deepening academic knowledge but also in developing skills such as critical thinking, creativity, effective communication, collaboration and resilience. The speech will also highlight the importance of creating a classroom environment that is inclusive, where Black and Latina young women feel seen, heard, and motivated to explore and excel in STEM fields. Furthermore, the role of technology in advancing STEM education for Black and Latina young women will be explored. By incorporating digital tools and resources, educators can create interactive and relatable learning experiences. This involves teaching not just technology use but also digital literacy and computational thinking skills, which are essential for success in the digital age. The latter segment of the speech will contextualize the importance of fostering a STEM culture for addressing global and community-specific challenges. By integrating STEM principles into education, we can empower Black and Latina young women with the skills and confidence to become problem-solvers and innovators, capable of tackling issues such as health disparities, environmental justice, and technological inequities. In conclusion, the speech will underscore the transformative impact educators can have in inspiring Black and Latina young women to pursue STEM. By embedding STEM into pedagogical practices and fostering a culture of exploration and representation, educators can ignite a lifelong passion for STEM among these young women. The speech aims to leave the audience with practical insights and an invigorated sense of purpose in their role as facilitators of an inclusive and diverse STEM future.

Speakers: Denise Barrett and Eurydice Stanley

Published in: Ireland International Conference on Education (IICE-2024)

  • Date of Conference: 2-4 April, 2024
  • DOI: 10.20533/IICE.2024.0011
  • ISBN: 978-1-913572-70-9
  • Conference Location: Dún Laoghaire, Ireland

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