PK-12 Teacher Professional Learning

This course explores how AI can shape the future of K–12 STEM education by providing educators with the skills and tools to effectively incorporate AI into their teaching. Participants will discover how AI can enhance learning experiences, simplify administrative tasks, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in students. The course will also discuss the strengths and current limitations of existing AI technologies, providing practical advice on its appropriate use and the safeguards educators need to consider. Through interactive workshops, case studies, and discussions on ethical implications, the course focuses on making AI accessible and actionable for educators of all experience levels. No prior experience with AI is required. The course is designed as a virtual, interactive, and collaborative experience.

In this online synchronous course students will review several theories related to teamwork and collaboration and the translation of these theories into successful practices in STEM education classes and the school as a workplace. Theories and strategies for improving team dynamics will be introduced, and participants will learn what factors are shown to lead to greater innovation and creativity on teams. We will also discuss implicit bias and stereotyping on teams, and how to prevent and minimize their negative impacts on participants. Multiple strategies for team formation in the classroom will be discussed, and we will explore how to teach students teamwork skills during project-based classes. The course will include an opportunity to apply some of the theories and strategies for effective and equitable teamwork in the classroom and to reflect on the utility of different approaches.

This online synchronous course addresses several elements of high-quality teaching, as well as laying the foundation for the variety of teaching & learning styles in different contexts (PreK-12 classrooms, out of school time settings, etc.). Students will discuss research related to family & community, culturally & linguistically sustaining practices, social & emotional learning, Universal Design for Learning, and engaging all learners in STEM. The course will also address different ways of knowing and learning, and connecting STEM learning to learners’ culture and place. Participants will develop concrete plans to apply course topics into their practice, aligned with professional standards.

The STEM Education Center at WPI is offering two 3-day OpenSciEd Launch trainings for K-12 science teachers, coaches, and/or administrators. The trainings will guide educators through the shift toward student-centered science teaching & learning, where students ‘figure out' and explain real-world phenomena, as well as the implementation of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM). Throughout the trainings, participating educators will experience the different routines & pedagogies associated with the OpenSciEd units, as well as work with colleagues to review a subject-specific OSE unit and plan for implementation in their classrooms. 

Problem Panda has a LOT of problems!  Join this info session to learn about this exciting and FREE STEM curriculum for PK/K learners. 

The STEM & PBL Curriculum course unpacks the elements of high-quality instructional materials (HQIMs), defined as curricular materials exhibiting a coherent sequence of lessons that target learning of grade-appropriate and standards-aligned skills and knowledge through research-based and inclusive instructional strategies. Participants review, analyze, and identify high quality STEM curricula, and discuss differences between STEM and project-based learning (PBL) curricular materials. They also practice creating standard-aligned and student-centered learning outcomes with and without the use of AI tools, following the guidelines of the backwards design.

The Foundations of Integrated STEM Education course engages participants in unpacking the knowledge and skills required of educators interested in 'STEMifying' their teaching (whether they teach a STEM course or would like to add a STEM component to their subject area). The course introduces topics related to students’ STEM identity, school and community, curriculum, and pedagogy, so participants could identify high-quality STEM experiences. Specifically, participants will analyze frameworks for high-quality STEM education, STEM standards and practices, the engineering design process, phenomenon-based teaching, equity and diversity in STEM, and student-centered STEM pedagogy.