Foundations of STEM Teaching

This unit introduces the meaning, history, and core concepts of STEM and situates them within current K–12 standards and practices. Students will examine pedagogy, assessment, equity, and resources that support inquiry-based, integrated STEM instruction and prepare to design standards-aligned lessons in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the core disciplines, historical developments, and defining principles of STEM education and explain their implications for classroom instruction
• Apply national and state science and engineering standards (including NGSS-related practices) to write clear, measurable learning targets and assessment criteria
• Demonstrate inquiry-based and integrated STEM instructional strategies using technology, simulations, and hands-on ‘free build’ tasks to engage diverse learners
• Evaluate instructional resources and student data to personalize learning goals and advocate for inclusion of underrepresented students in STEM learning environments