As global leaders in the field of project-based learning, WPI faculty and staff are committed to sharing their knowledge and expertise with other academic institutions around the world. In keeping with this focus, Kris Wobbe (associate dean of undergraduate studies and associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry) and Mia Dubosarsky (director of professional development at the STEM Education Center) recently sat down with Drew Perkins of TeachThought Professional Development to discuss all things STEM and project-based learning, as well as each one's integral role in the education of students at all grade levels.
At WPI’s STEM Education Center, we believe that teaching STEM is more than simply emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
STEM is an educational philosophy, a way of teaching that prepares students for the world of the future by creating interconnected, meaningful and relevant learning experiences, and promoting skills that allow students to become successful problem solvers.
We build and support the capacity of STEM educators to provide equitable opportunities that excite and inspire all students by offering standard-aligned PBL experiences tackling issues of real-world relevance.
The WPI STEM Education Center is like a one stop shopping STEM experience for me; I can attend a PD session one day and implement it in my classroom the next day; I can even get materials on loan from the Center if needed. It's fun AND easy to use!
Christine Robbins
STEM Teacher
Auburn Middle School
The STEM Education Center was instrumental in launching our district-wide STEM initiative in 2018 and we have continued to access their PD offerings for ongoing support, guidance, and enhancement ever since! We could not have gotten this far without them!
Shawn Fortin
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning
Belchertown Public Schools