Cultivating Future-Ready Learners: Building STEM Identity Through Project-Based Learning
On the Elementary STEM Coach Podcast, host Naomi Meredith chats with Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, about cultivating STEM identity—a learner’s belief that they belong, can master rigorous challenges, and that their ideas matter. Dr. Berry highlights hands-on, play-based learning, storytelling, and cross-curricular integration as catalysts for confidence and problem-solving in an AI-driven world. They discuss how community partnerships sustain STEM programs, why every classroom can embed STEM (not just the lab), and invite educators to participate in STEM Identity Day (Nov 7) to share personal STEM journeys. The episode is a practical call for educators and families to collaborate on equitable, future-ready learning environments.
Key Topics:
- What is “STEM identity” and why it matters for every learner
- Hands-on & play-based learning: moments, productive struggle, and resilience
- Integrating STEM across subjects (beyond the stand-alone lab)
- Tools that unlock access (assistive tech, talk-to-text, and more)
- Building sustainable STEM ecosystems: environment, curriculum, tools, facilitator support, community
- Partnering with families, businesses, and mentors to keep programs thriving
- Preparing students for an AI-powered world through adaptability and critical thinking
- Invitation to STEM Identity Day (Nov 7): sharing stories that spark belonging and purpose
- How to get involved with SmartLab and professional learning communities