Girls STEM Insitute: Engaging Families in STEM Learning

Sheramie Velazquez, School of Education

Crystal Morton, School of Education

Girls STEM Institute: Fostering and Maximizing Interdisciplinary Learning Year-round (F.a.M.I.L.Y) examines an innovative approach to positively influence Black girls, guys, and their parents/caregivers' STEM learning experiences. The F.a.M.I.L.Y project provides Black girls, guys, and their caregivers an opportunity to complete life-enriching multidisciplinary STEM experiences collaboratively to explore how these learning experiences impact Black girls and their caregivers' enjoyment of STEM and interest in STEM content and careers. Seven families for a total of 11 students and 7 caregivers are participating in this ongoing study. Preliminary qualitative data analysis of reflective journal responses after the first four of ten sessions revealed themes such as (1) gaining a deeper appreciation for STEM; (2) recognizing an intergenerational transference of knowledge (caregivers and their children realizing they can teach and learn from each other); (3) increasing interest and captivation in STEM; and (4) holistic approach to teaching-examining societal issues while exploring STEM subjects.


Velazquez & Morton.pptx