Enhancing STEM education and preparing students for technical careers.

Mike Vargas discusses his involvement in the Arizona STEM Acceleration Project, a $10 million grant aimed at improving STEM education in the state. He highlights the need to start STEM education early and the importance of project-based learning. Vargas emphasizes the need for authentic science experiences and the role of mentors in inspiring students. He also addresses the challenges faced by rural teachers and the efforts to connect science careers with teachers through initiatives like Stem to Space. This conversation explores various themes related to STEM education and career opportunities. The discussion highlights the wide range of STEM careers available in the federal space, the importance of external influences in career choices, and the need for career education in schools. The conversation also touches on the Smart Scholarship and other opportunities for students, the evolving thinking between four-year degrees and CTE paths, and the value of teaching critical thinking skills. The challenges of shifting paradigms in education, the need for statistics education in high school, and the importance of interpreting data and studies are also discussed. The conversation concludes with a focus on the effort to increase the number of certificates and degrees, the outcomes measured in the project, and the creation of an archive of STEM lesson plans.

Learn more about the Arizona State University STEM program https://stemteachers.asu.edu/ ABOUT MIKE

Mike Vargas is a 20-year veteran Physics teacher who is a founding member of the Cactus Caucus, a group of Arizona Physics teachers who helped pass legislation to advance science teacher education in Arizona. This effort led to the Arizona Department of Education's "Get Set for STEM"program which aimed to increase the number of higher-level STEM teachers state wide. This initiative helped increase the number of physics teachers in Arizona by nearly 20%. Mike is also a founding member of STEMteachersPHX and has extensive ties to the Arizona Science Teachers Association, the American Modeling Teachers Association, and the American Association of Physics Teachers. Mike served as a board member to the Northern Arizona University K12 Center and has been an active participant in the Arizona Education Foundations efforts to promote STEM education with its "TeachSTEM" program. Mike has served on the Air Force Association National Aerospace Council for the last few years and co-led the Space Force's first national education outreach project, "STEM to Space". Mike served on the Federal Coordination in STEM's Interagency Working Group for Strategic Partnerships (IWG-SP) and served as a Department of Defense Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow to the Department of the Air Force K12 STEM National Office as well as the Department of Defense's Strategic Manufacturing Education Workforce Development program. His policy and strategic partnership experience has been essential for the creation of Arizona State University's newest initiative -The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project. He is currently the Co-Principal investigator and Senior Program Manager for ASAP.

Innovative science teaching through simulated space exploration.

In this conversation, Lauren shares her experience of flying in zero gravity and conducting experiments. The chapters cover various aspects of the flight, including the parabolic flight pattern, the duration of zero gravity, and the unpredictability of movement in zero gravity. Lauren also discusses the experiments conducted, such as the Diet Coke experiment and the hydrophobic material experiment. The involvement of students in experiment design and the funding and organizations supporting the flight are also explored. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging students in real-world science experiences and the potential for future flights and experiments.

Learn more about Limitless Space Educator Program https://www.limitlessspace.org/limitless-educator-program/

ABOUT LAUREN

Lauren Parker teaches seventh- and eighth-grade science at Fort Worth Academy in Fort Worth, Texas. She has earned many recognitions in her teaching career including being named District Teacher of the Year, The Bayard H. Friedman Hero Award, and the Tony So Excellence in Education Award. She was also selected to present with her students at the NASA/Sally Ride Science GRAIL MoonKam Teacher Expo in Washington, D.C. to share how the mission was incorporated in the classroom. She serves as a member of the Space Exploration Educator Crew program at Space Center Houston; a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador, a Space Station Ambassador with the ISS National Laboratory, and a Limitless Space Institute Educator Ambassador. Most recently, Lauren was one of eight teachers nationwide to participate in the Embedded Teacher Program through the Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium in partnership with Space for Teachers. This allowed Lauren's students to develop experiments for a microgravity environment which she then flew and conducted for them on board a Zero-G parabolic flight.

AI: the benefits, ethics, and future of critical thinking skills.

Tammie Schrader, Science Coordinator in Washington State, discusses the impact of AI in education. She and Dave explore the challenges and benefits of implementing AI tools in the classroom, as well as the need for ethical guidelines and critical thinking skills. They also touch on the evolving nature of technology and the importance of updating educational materials to reflect current advancements. The conversation highlights the potential of AI to enhance learning experiences and foster critical thinking skills among students. Additionally, they discuss concerns related to privacy, ownership, and the competitive nature of gifted students. In this conversation, Tammie and Dave discuss the use of AI tools in education and the importance of critical thinking. They explore the assessment of critical thinking skills and the potential of AI to assist in data analysis.

They also discuss the role of AI in coding and the future of AI in education. The conversation highlights the need for student involvement in AI discussions and the importance of addressing biases in AI. They emphasize that AI should be seen as a tool, not a replacement for teachers, and discuss the power of AI in differentiating instruction and promoting equity in education. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the potential of AI in education and the importance of using it to enhance learning experiences. This conversation explores the power of technology in education and the role of AI in equalizing opportunities for students. It emphasizes the importance of understanding versus writing and encourages students to solve real-world problems.

The conversation also discusses the value of passion in problem-solving and the need for authentic learning experiences. Additionally, it highlights the limitations of traditional education and the flaws of word problems. The role of AI in education, the importance of critical thinking in teams, and the value of social-emotional learning are also explored. The conversation concludes by emphasizing the need for authentic conversations and the importance of thinking critically about AI.

ABOUT TAMMIE

Tammie is a Regional Science and Computer Science Coordinator for Northeast Washington Education Service District 101 in Washington State. Tammie was a science teacher at Cheney Middle School, in Cheney, Washington for 15 years. She is currently an adjunct science methods instructor at Whitworth University. She taught Life Science as well as Computer Programming, Gaming Programming, Robotics as well as coaching the Science Olympiad Team, Robotics Club, SeaPerch Team as well as Future Business Leaders of America at her middle school. She has her B.A. in Education as well as a B.S. in Biology. She earned her M.A. in Education and Teaching At-Risk Students from Gonzaga University. She is currently enrolled as a Ph.D. candidate and is writing her dissertation on Leadership and Game-Based Education in the Classroom.

Georgia Curriculum Director uses technology to enhance learning.

Dr. Scott Sweeting talks with us about integrating AI in science and computer science education, highlighting how it can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills vital for today's students. Key topics include using AI for more efficient assessment writing, fostering creativity through AI tools, and adapting teaching methods for future technological advancements. The talk also covers practical applications of AI in classroom settings, such as Swift code generation and open AI tests, preparing students for emerging jobs. Additionally, it touches on the exciting use of AI in environmental science, the significance of events like solar eclipses, and the role of planetariums in sparking student interest, all essential for science educators looking to enrich their curriculum and teaching strategies.

ABOUT SCOTT

Dr. Scott Sweeting epitomizes a lifelong dedication to advancing science education. With over 23 years of experience in the field of science education, his journey has been marked by a profound commitment to igniting curiosity and fostering a deep appreciation for the wonders of science. As a High School Science Teacher, STEM Coordinator, and now as the Secondary Curriculum Director for Thomas County Schools, Dr. Sweeting has continually pushed boundaries and championed innovation in science education. He has embarked on a mission to transform science education at both the local and global levels.

Dr. Sweeting's academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Florida State University, where he laid the foundation for his passion for the natural sciences. Building upon this, he pursued higher education at Valdosta State University, earning both a Master's and Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Within the Thomas County School system, Dr. Sweeting spearheads an array of programs aimed at nurturing scientific curiosity and prowess. From science and computer science to Artificial Intelligence and physical education, his influence extends across diverse domains. He oversees initiatives such as Project Lead the Way, the Gentian Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, and Lego League, providing students with immersive experiences that transcend traditional classroom boundaries.

Beyond curriculum development, Dr. Sweeting is a fervent advocate for promoting the significance of science within the community. He tirelessly communicates the importance of scientific literacy to teachers, students, and the wider public, emphasizing its role in shaping our understanding of the world. His efforts have garnered international recognition, with Thomas County Schools participating in the prestigious Pocket Lab Unconference SCIC 8. This global platform showcased the collaboration between the school system and Georgia Tech on Urban Heat Island research, attracting over 8,000 educators from around the world.

In a landmark collaboration with Chattooga County Schools, Georgia Public Broadcasting, and the Georgia Department of Education, Dr. Sweeting helped lead the production of the groundbreaking middle school science series, "Science in Action." This initiative exemplifies his vision of a 3D science classroom, where students are engaged through hands-on experimentation and real-world applications.

Dr. Scott Sweeting's unwavering dedication to science education has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape. His tireless advocacy, innovative initiatives, and collaborative spirit continue to inspire generations of students and educators alike, propelling science education into new frontiers of discovery and enlightenment.

USASEF Director discusses learning motivation and discovery in STEM education.

Amy Oliverio, Director of the USA Science and Engineering Festival discusses various topics related to learning, motivation, and the joy of discovery. They delve into the idea of challenging oneself and the satisfaction derived from overcoming obstacles, drawing parallels between learning experiences and the rush of endorphins experienced during magic tricks. Amy shares insights from neuroscientist Andrew Huberman, emphasizing the importance of tackling difficult tasks to develop the brain and highlighting the physiological changes that occur when individuals engage in challenging activities. They discuss the gratification derived from problem-solving, whether it's analyzing data to uncover anomalies or exploring new concepts like bonsai plants on YouTube, showcasing the value of lifelong learning and adaptability.

Throughout the conversation, Dave and Amy reflect on the enduring nature of skills acquired through learning, illustrating this with examples ranging from starting YouTube channels in one's 80s to fostering problem-solving skills in students. They underscore the transformative power of curiosity and the rewards of persistence, emphasizing the role of mentors and supportive environments in nurturing a culture of exploration and growth. They conclude with a call to action for teachers interested in applying for fellowships, encapsulating the theme of continuous learning and the collective pursuit of knowledge.

USA Science and Engineering Festival: https://usasciencefestival.org/ Free X-STEM lessons (NGSS and CASEL): https://app.thepocketlab.com/pocketlab-library?filters=X-STEM

ABOUT AMY

Since joining the Festival in 2019, Amy has contributed to the development of partnerships, programs, and marketing strategies that include the creation of an extensive email outreach program targeting Title 1 schools across the country and implementation of a social media marketing and advertising strategy. After 13 years with a major corporation and 10 years running her own travel and event business, she is loving the switch in gears to a mission-driven non-profit organization that serves the educator and helps to fill our nation's upcoming workforce needs in the STEM fields.

Empowering student innovation with the US Department of Education.

In this conversation, Kari Byron (Mythbusters, EXPLR Media, Crash Test World) is joined by National STEM Champion Sritej Sai Padmanabhan. Kari, Sritej and Dave discuss his STEM Festival project Neuralize, which aims to quantitatively measure disease markers associated with Parkinson's disease. Inspired by his grandfather's diagnosis, Sritej wanted to create a tool that could remotely monitor the condition of Parkinson's patients, especially those in rural and underserved areas. This conversation explores the themes of problem-solving, technology, and the importance of support in the STEM field. The guests discuss the desire of the younger generation to make a difference and the impact of technology on problem-solving. They also highlight the time and effort required to solve problems and the importance of starting small and thinking big. The National STEM Festival is promoting students and their projects like this one with the goal of creating a community where young innovators can showcase their brilliance and be inspired to pursue their passions in STEM fields. They believe in fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to excel and make a meaningful impact on the world.

ABOUT KARI

For nearly two decades Kari Byron has been a strong presence in the world of science television. She is best known as a host on Discovery Channel's Mythbusters but has gone on to host and produce shows spanning several networks;Head Rush, Punkin Chunkin, LDRS, Thrill Factor, Strange Trips, America Declassified, The White Rabbit Project, Positive Energy and Crash Test World.

ABOUT SRITEJ

Sritej Sai Padmanabhan is a 10th grader from North Allegheny Intermediate High School. Srtiej's project observes how getting medical access in rural areas is a struggle for those who suffer from neurological disorders such as Parkinson's Disease (PD). His objective was to create a telehealth solution through a computer vision tool that can quantitatively measure Parkinsonian Disease Markers and then use these values to quantify the disease severity.

This project is very close to Sritej- as two years ago, his grandfather was diagnosed with Parkinson's' disease, and it was difficult to monitor conditions remotely. He noticed firsthand how much hand tremors can affect one's daily life and set off on the task to address this with his skills in computer science.

Hawaii teacher discusses teaching strategy with project-based learning.

Mia-Pia Cummins shares her journey as a middle school science teacher, tackling curriculum challenges and emphasizing hands-on learning and adaptability in education. She discusses the beauty and challenge of teaching in such a rural area like she is in Hawaii. Mia-Pia discusses the challenges she faces as a middle school science teacher, particularly with curriculum choices and state standards. She highlights the importance of having flexibility in teaching materials and the need for mixed media, including printed resources, to cater to different learning styles. Mia-Pia emphasizes the value of allowing students to make mistakes and engage in hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, Mia-Pia and Dave discuss the frustrations teachers encounter with mandated curricula and the importance of adapting to students' needs. Throughout the conversation, they underscore the necessity of empowering teachers with the autonomy to choose and customize their instructional materials.

They dig into differences in different learning environments and cultures stemming from Mia-Pia's experience growing up in Europe. They emphasize the importance of allowing students to make mistakes and encouraging critical thinking in the learning process. Mia-Pia shares her experiences with using Kesler Science materials and the benefits of having access to a diverse range of resources for teaching. They conclude the conversation by expressing their commitment to improving education and finding innovative solutions to address the limitations of the current system.

Hawaii Science Teachers Association: https://hasta.wildapricot.org/

ABOUT Mia-Pia

Aloha, I'm Mia-Pia Cummins-VanHerreweghe, and I am a 7th-grade Science teacher at Konawaena Middle School in Kealakekua on the Big Island of Hawai'i. I started teaching Math in 2007, and switched to teaching 8th-grade Science in 2012 and 7th-grade Science in 2014. I hold dual licensure for Math and Science 6-12. My students are a very diverse group of students from various backgrounds and ethnicities. My classes are fully inclusive for both English language learners and Special Education students. My passion is using project-based and culturally relevant learning opportunities for my students while also focusing on NGSS. I was born and raised in Belgium and attended the KU Leuven Medical School. After leaving the medical field and moving to the US, I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Hawai'i at Hilo, and my Post-Baccalaureate in Secondary Math Education from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, where I also obtained my Master's of Education in Learning Design and Technology with a Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning. I currently serve as president of the Hawai'i Science Teaching Association, and will be serving as National Science Teaching Association Director for District XVI (California, Hawaii, Nevada, American Samoa, Guam, Territory of the Pacific Islands) starting this summer. Before and after school, I work on my farm in South Kona, where I raise various types of chickens, ducks, geese, and sheep. In my spare time I enjoy baking bread.

In this bonus episode, we have an extension of our conversation with professor, speaker, and author, John Spencer. We dig into his love of project-based learning and how he stays inspired in his classroom.

https://spencerauthor.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@spencereducation

https://twitter.com/spencerideas

https://www.facebook.com/spencereducation/

https://www.instagram.com/spencereducation

ABOUT JOHN

Hi, I'm John Spencer. I'm a former middle school teacher and current college professor on a quest to transform schools into bastions of creativity and wonder. I want to see teachers unleash the creative potential in all of their students so that kids can be makers, designers, artists, and engineers. I explore research, interview educators, deconstruct systems, and study real-world examples of design thinking in action. I share what I'm learning in books, blog posts, journal articles, free resources, animated videos, and podcasts.

You can subscribe to John's newsletter at https://spencerauthor.com/newsletter/.

In this week's episode, Dave joins Dr. John Spencer to take a dive deep into the evolution of technology, education, and innovation. Their conversation delves into the importance of project-based learning in education, emphasizing the value of empowering students to explore, experiment, and learn through hands-on experiences. They discuss the significance of embracing failure as an inherent part of the learning process and highlight the parallels between classroom dynamics and real-world industries like music and semiconductor manufacturing. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the need for engaging, curiosity-driven education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability.

By sharing personal anecdotes and insights, Dave and John underscore the importance of fostering a culture of experimentation and risk-taking in both education and professional fields. They emphasize the power of phenomena-based learning, drawing connections between scientific principles and real-world applications. Through examples ranging from Elton John's music career to Steve Spangler's captivating demonstrations, they illustrate the concept of prolific creation and the iterative nature of success. Ultimately, the episode underscores the need for educators to embrace innovative teaching methodologies that prioritize curiosity, exploration, and resilience, preparing students for a rapidly changing world.

https://spencerauthor.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@spencereducation

https://twitter.com/spencerideas

https://www.facebook.com/spencereducation/

https://www.instagram.com/spencereducation

ABOUT JOHN

Hi, I'm John Spencer. I'm a former middle school teacher and current college professor on a quest to transform schools into bastions of creativity and wonder. I want to see teachers unleash the creative potential in all of their students so that kids can be makers, designers, artists, and engineers. I explore research, interview educators, deconstruct systems, and study real-world examples of design thinking in action. I share what I'm learning in books, blog posts, journal articles, free resources, animated videos, and podcasts.

You can subscribe to John's newsletter at https://spencerauthor.com/newsletter/.

In this podcast episode, Dave engages in a conversation with Christa Dillabaugh, Director of the Morpho Institute, discussing their conservation efforts and educational programs in the Amazon rainforest. Krista shares insights into the institute's initiatives, highlighting the delicate balance between progress and conservation in the region. They delve into the challenges of managing biodiversity while accommodating human presence, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that involve indigenous communities and diverse perspectives.

Furthermore, Christa elaborates on the Morpho Institute's educational programs, detailing their Amazon research program and efforts to broaden participation and diversity. They discuss upcoming projects, including biodiversity monitoring and field investigations, underscoring the importance of hands-on learning experiences for educators and students alike. Through collaborative efforts and thoughtful planning, the Morpho Institute aims to foster a deeper understanding of tropical ecology while advocating for sustainable conservation practices in the Amazon.

https://morphoinstitute.org/

PocketLabs in the Amazon! https://morphoinstitute.org/pocketlab-in-the-amazon/

https://www.instagram.com/morphoinstitute/

https://www.facebook.com/morphoinstitute

ABOUT CHRISTA

Christa's journey through science, biology, and education has been a bit like the Amazon River - lots of curves and switchbacks, but all culminating in where she is today. She is currently the director of the Morpho Institute, a conservation education non-profit that develops field study programs for US K12 educators - all based in the Peruvian Amazon. Her love of the Amazon and neotropical rainforests began while leading expeditions for my middle school students.

Her current passion is blending inquiry, place-based education, and community-based conservation into professional learning experiences for teachers. Her next big project is developing a 'research experience for teachers' that focuses on biodiversity monitoring in the Amazon.

She have a Bachelor of Science from Purdue University and a Masters of Biology from Miami University. Before founding the Morpho Institute, she was a middle and high school science educator. She has also worked as a science consultant for Pearson Education and Discovery Communications, contributing to curriculum and activity guides as well as educator in-service workshops and training materials focusing on STEM and Understanding by Design in the science classroom.