Equitable STEM Access
Striving for Equity
in Education
Achieving equity in education goes beyond simply offering equal resources to every student. Equality means providing the same support to all students, regardless of their individual circumstances, whether it be time, money, or classroom tools. Equity, however, recognizes that each student has unique needs and requires tailored support to reach their full potential.
Creating a level playing field starts with addressing the diverse challenges that students face, such as socioeconomic disparities, access to technology, and varying learning abilities. It also involves cultivating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to thrive. By focusing on equity, educators and policymakers can ensure that all students, no matter their background, are given the tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Level the playing field for all students with an equitable approach to learning.
Equitable classrooms and curriculums are designed to serve students no matter their race, gender, income level, or ability by personalizing learning to their unique needs. Schools that take an equitable approach to education strive to:
- Provide a strong educational foundation for students of all backgrounds
- Ensure that all students’ individual needs are met, both academic and social-emotional
- Create a positive, engaging learning environment that supports even (and especially) students who are struggling
- Establish curriculum that is inclusive, authentic, and promotes community involvement
- Help learners develop the skills and confidence they need for a lifetime of success
Download our eBook to learn how to meet students where they are and prepare them to thrive beyond the classroom.
Equal versus equitable learning opportunities
While the terms equity and equality may sound similar,
the implementation of one versus the other can lead to dramatically different outcomes for marginalized people.
Equality means each individual or group of people is given
the same resources or opportunities. Equity recognizes
that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach
an equal outcome.
STEM + PBL
Can Help Level
the Playing Field.
When all students have access to high quality STEAM learning, more opportunities are open to them after K-12.
SmartLab students learn skills and habits that will serve them for a lifetime, no matter what careers they choose.
See students at work in SmartLabs all over the country:
HOW IT WORKS
With SmartLab Learning, we intentionally design programs that nurture next-gen skills.
Set and Accomplish Goals
Students define goals, identify problems they want to solve, and manage their time to accomplish their goals.
Embrace Inquisitive Learning
Learners think critically, ask questions, find answers, and creatively develop effective solutions.
Work in Teams
Students work in pairs, where teamwork is as important as the project outcome.
Gain Communication Skills
Students hone their communication skills by sharing their learning with their peers and teacher.
Share Insights and Connections
Students share insights and, through self-reflection, connect what they’re doing with what they’re learning and record it in their portfolio.
“The skills that are developed in the SmartLab HQs create good citizens and good humans. It builds on foundational skills and creates the ideal attitudes you want to see in the classroom.”
Explore Our SmartLab Learning Programs
Ready to start planning your own SmartLab?
We’re excited to hear from you. Let’s change the way your students engage with math and science–in and outside the classroom.
