CSIRO’s Post

How can we inspire, educate, train, and innovate in STEM fields and STEM careers? This week, a new five-year Federal Strategic Plan for Advancing STEM Education and Cultivating STEM Talent was released. Developed by agencies across the federal government and the Smithsonian Institution, represented by Carol O’Donnell, Lapp-Keiser Director of the Smithsonian Science Education Center, this plan provides a framework for the advancement of equitable access to education, workforce, and research opportunities for all. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/ecHZjxdK

Good morning world! In today’s pivotal era, as we re-examine equity and inclusion, the importance of precise language cannot be overstated—especially when discussing diverse and underserved communities. Terms like “in,” “from,” and “of” these communities often populate dialogues, but do they truly capture the spirit of inclusivity? The title of the new book, “Qualitative Research With Diverse and Underserved Communities,” proposes a subtle yet profound shift to “with,” inviting us to rethink our approach to inclusiveness. This phrasing isn’t just semantic; it signals a partnership and a shared journey in the research process, emphasizing collaboration and mutual respect. As we delve into the insights this book offers, let’s challenge ourselves to not only consume information but to also participate in a transformative dialogue. Congratulations to the co-authors for leading us into this necessary conversation. Let’s explore what “with” really means and the possibilities it unveils. Join the movement towards more inclusive research practices. Now is the time! #InclusiveResearch #DiversityAndInclusion #EquityInAction #SocialImpact #CommunityEngagement #QualitativeResearch #ClaremontGraduateUniversityAlumni #GloriaWillinghamConsults #BlackWomenSpeak #TheVillageProjects #ScholarsWithin @VillageProjects.net

Happy anniversary to the Fisk-Vanderbilt Bridge Program! This year, the program celebrated 20 years of improving representation in STEM fields. Studies have shown that underrepresented minority students are more likely to use a master’s degree as a pathway to obtain a Ph.D. To increase the number of underrepresented minority students engaged in Ph.D.-level STEM research, in 2004 Fisk University and Vanderbilt partnered to form the Bridge Program. At the time, they had no idea how impactful it would be. “I stumbled on this program, and I respected what it stood for,” said Hannah Nnabugwu, who is working toward her master’s in chemistry from Fisk. “I am in this program because I want to grow my resume and network, meet people who are similar to myself, and create a solid foundation—mentally and physically—and skills before entering into a doctorate program, especially with having access to the resources at Vanderbilt University.” Celebrate the Bridge Program’s anniversary, learn more about its history, and hear more student experiences ⬇ https://lnkd.in/ewsNGuXn

H-FOR HUMAN FOUNDATION: Empowering the Future of STEM Talent and Leadership We are thrilled to announce the launch of Technology Leaders of the Future, a global initiative aimed at empowering outstanding young talents in mathematics, physics, computer science, and design technology 🌍💡 With 50 full scholarships already available, this program offers passionate students aged 14+ an unparalleled academic journey at H-FARM International School, supported by a dedicated team of specialized educators. “This is a concrete step towards building a strong community of passionate young students in key subjects.” – Riccardo Donadon, President of the H for Human Foundation. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, ensuring students have access to excellent education and resources.” – Antonello Barbaro, CEO of H-FARM Education. This initiative doesn’t just enhance STEM education—it shapes future leaders ready to tackle global challenges with confidence and competence. The first selection phase is open to students from CIS countries and the Baltic Republics, offering a chance to join a vibrant international community and immerse in Italian culture. Join us in shaping the future. Your support can amplify our mission to reach even more regions and create opportunities for young talents worldwide. Learn more about the program and how to contribute: https://lnkd.in/d289Ps2t Anthony C. A. Saccon

Applying to elite STEM programs is more competitive than ever. In this free webinar, a former Caltech admissions officer reveals exactly what it takes to stand out and get accepted. Discover strategies for building a strong application and what top schools are really looking for. Register now, spots are filling up fast: https://hubs.li/Q02VjRFr0

The Impact of STEM Education on School Grades 🧑🎓 In today’s rapidly evolving world, STEM (Science 🧪, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics🧮) education is crucial. It equips students with the skills and knowledge needed in a technology-driven world, but its benefits extend beyond career preparation. Let’s explore how well-designed STEM programs can significantly impact students’ school grades across various subjects. https://lnkd.in/dcBv3DQM

It's great to see The University of Sunderland inspiring the next generation. The future of innovation lies in the hands of the younger generation, and it’s crucial that we encourage them to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). STEM isn’t just about understanding complex equations or coding the next breakthrough app; it’s about solving real-world problems, driving progress, and shaping the future. By nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a passion for discovery, we equip young minds to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Mentorship, hands-on learning opportunities, and showing the relevance of STEM in everyday life can ignite this passion. The possibilities in these fields are endless, and the next wave of inventors, thinkers, and problem solvers are right in front of us.

"I'm not a science person" I've heard that reaction so many times from adults after sharing I have a PhD in chemistry. But it stings differently and more impactfully, when it comes from a student. From a kid who hides behind that identity as a protection mechanism, thinking it will lower my expectations of them, to a kid using it as an excuse to "check out." Or a kid who just is not that interested in the content because their passion is in drama, or political science, or poetry, or fine arts, or.... I've found that when a student takes on that as part of their identity, it is rooted in not having experienced science yet. The true experience of developing an experiment you care about, the struggle of carrying it out, gathering data, and the satisfaction of answering your question. Because the truth is, we should all have a part of our identity rooted in the scientific method. The curiosity and creativity, the perseverance, the skepticism, the methodical approach, the critical thinking and problem solving, the project management... We need more STEM research experiences, earlier, and often! So when I read this report, I found it to be so valuable, so validating, as someone who has dedicated their career to STEM research education. And this part stood out to me: "Of all the arguments supporting increased investment in STEM education R&D to solve our current STEM crisis – tepid federal spending, ominously powerful inventions, and the dearth of talent for advancing and managing those inventions – a fourth argument eclipses each of them: STEM education improves the lives of individuals irrespective of their occupation. And in so doing, STEM education improves communities and the country at large. Learners fortunate to enjoy quality STEM education develop creativity through imaginative design, interpretation, and representation of investigations. The tools they use strengthen technology literacy. The mode of discovery is highly social, honing communication and cooperation skills. With no sage-on-the-stage they develop independence of thought. Failure happens, forging perseverance and resilience in its wake. Asking and answering questions nurtures curiosity. Defending and refuting ideas cultivates critical thinking, Truth and facts are evidence-based yet always tentative. Empathy is cultivated through alternative interpretations or points of view. And confidence to pursue STEM as a career comes from doing STEM. The prospect of an entire population of Americans thus equipped is the most compelling case for strategically increased R&D investment in STEM education." Every student should have STEM experiences that make them feel like a science kid, even if its not their career choice. Stay tuned! We at STEMbridge Consulting are developing new core offerings and are undergoing a website revamp. Can't WAIT to share what we've been working on as we try to ensure all students are having valuable STEM research experiences, early and often.

Today we celebrate National STEM Day where we unite to celebrate the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. When most people think of industries that use STEM disciplines, construction is often overlooked when in reality science, technology, engineering and mathematics are present in and around construction in many ways. And these aren’t just the theoretical parts of STEM – it’s STEM actually being applied to real-life purposes.

#996 "I invited you to a public debate about your claims as I’ve been fighting this insinuation of inferior American values in STEM for 35 years or more. It’s a myth that came out of the @NSF & @theNASEM. Let’s debate this in public. On camera. The claim that America is inferior in STEM is calumny. What is true is that Americans in STEM behave like *Americans*. Our own scientists aren’t going to act like employees. Our engineers aren’t going to say 'Whatever you say boss!' We aren’t lining up to sign your DEI oaths. Our own scientists and engineers expect their kids to go to the top schools. They expect to get recognized for discoveries. They expect academic freedom. They expect to be financially secure. Etc etc. I say @VivekGRamaswamy, that our system produces the best STEM talent in the world and then promptly destroys most of what it produces in favor of more pliant labor. Let’s have this out."