by Leena Bakshi McLean (Author)
Help close the STEM gap through theory and practical tools
Containing all of the practical tools needed to put theory into practice, STEM for All by Leena Bakshi McLean provides a roadmap for teachers, instructional coaches, and leaders to better understand the challenges that create low engagement and scores in STEM subjects and implement exciting and culturally relevant teaching plans. This book covers a wealth of key topics surrounding the subject, including classroom culture, discourse, identity, and belonging, family and community participation, and justice-centered core learning.
This book uses the Connect, Create, and Cultivate framework from STEM4Real, an organization that provides socially just and culturally relevant STEM teaching and standards-based learning strategies, combined with stories and case studies of real students throughout to provide context for key concepts. In this book, readers will learn about:
- Six pillars that can throw off the foundation of a classroom, including non-inclusive curriculum and lack of equal access
- Moments of triumph and resilience that can be used to navigate rocky and recalcitrant relationships
- Implicit and unconscious biases that can unravel our impact despite our best intentions
STEM for All earns a well-deserved spot on the bookshelves of all educators motivated to close the STEM gap and better prepare their students for future college and career opportunities in math and science fields.
Back Jacket
"Bakshi McLean has created a roadmap for educators who are beginning to braid together NGSS-aligned standards, principles of belonging, and culturally responsive pedagogy. She offers a call to action to find our professional learning squad so we can collectively uplevel STEM instruction to meet the needs of all students, with a steady eye on those who have been historically marginalized."
-- ZARETTA HAMMOND, teacher-educator and author of Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain
"This is a must-read for STEM teachers and educational leaders who are passionate about inclusivity, equity of opportunity, and children's deep learning--Dr. Bakshi McLean demonstrates the power of connecting classroom experiences with students' cultural and family backgrounds, in ways that make every individual feel seen, heard, and capable of constructing knowledge of the world around them."
--DR. MARK WINDSCHITL, professor of Science Teaching and Learning, University of Washington
A practical guide to improving STEM interest, access, and scores in students
STEM for All helps teachers engage students in science and mathematics using a three-part framework that educators can pair with Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core State Standards, or other state and national initiatives. Offering a clear-cut journey from theory to practice, this book enables educators to quickly identify what students are doing and what they need to know.
The lived reality of many families and students, especially in our most vulnerable populations, is an opportunity gap and a lack of access to STEM. STEM for All is an essential guide for educators, including teachers, instructional coaches, and leaders, on how to prioritize STEM subjects and create a real access point for every student, regardless of background.