STEM Education in Catholic Schools

Matt Kloser, Ph.D.Director, Notre Dame Center for STEM Education

STEM

STEM

STEAM

STREAM

STAMPER

eSTEeM

Myth #1: We need to make sure we don’t slight anyone in the name

7 SUBJECT SCHOOL DAY

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STEM Definitions• “...an interdisciplinary approach to learning where

rigorous academic concepts are coupled with real-world lessons as students apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in contexts that make connections between school, community, work, and the global enterprise enabling the development of STEM literacy and with it the ability to compete in the new economy”

(Tsupros, Kohler, & Hallinen, 2009).

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STEM Definitions• Integrated STEM: STEM is viewed not as separate

subjects, but as a pedagogy in which disciplines like science, technology, engineering, and math are indistinguishable from innovation and therefore the arts.

• S.T.E.M./S.T.R.E.A.M.: A collection of subjects that all students take - science, tech, engineering, math, the arts, and religion - with the hope of integration across disciplines.

Myth #2: STEM is for public schools

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Reynoldsburg eSTEM & STEM Elementary

• Design Cycle Application

• Collaborative Learning Space

• Capstone/STEM Block

• Extensive Teacher Team Collaboration Time

• University Partnership

STEM AcademyCritical Components

Sharon Lynch, George Washington, OSPrI

STEM Infused CurriculumProject Based Learning

Rich School CultureInnovative Tech Use

Formal/Informal OpportunitiesReal World STEM Partners

Qualified STEM Faculty Inclusive STEM Mission

Pairs or Triads Discussion

As the instructional leader in your Catholic school, discuss the following:

a. Which truths do you need to promote or which myths do you need to dispel about STEM Education to your school community?

b. What do you see as the best first steps for effectively integrating STEM elements in your school?

Plenary Discussion and Questions

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Major Decision Points

School Culture• Catholic Identity• Vision• Mission• Grad @ Grad

Executive Management

6. Communication & Marketing7. Program Evaluation

Instructional Leadership

1. Curriculum Scope & Sequence (Schedule)

2. Teacher/Admin PD Plan3. Student Assessment4. Capital & Material

Improvements5. Extra/Co-Curricular

Programs

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Curriculum Scope and Sequence

http://changetheequation.org/improving-philanthropy/stemworks