Mind the Gap: How We Use STEAM Education to Build a Path to Equitable Learning
2024 STEAM Ahead
At STEAM Ahead, we’re building a future where historically underrepresented youth see themselves as innovators and leaders in STEAM.
Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) aren’t just subjects—they’re the building blocks to success: five pillars of educational change for a new generation. At STEAM Ahead, we bring these concepts to life, showing young minds how understanding the world of STEAM is the great enabler. By engaging with STEAM, the possibilities their futures hold are endless. Here’s how each of these five pillars transforms the lives of our students:
Science:
Science inspires wonder. Young people become scientists at STEAM Ahead with hands-on interactive experiments that encourage exploration and curiosity. Our students meet scientists in the field and explore top-notch research facilities through institutions like the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. We also bring Science directly to students by designing and building science-focused STEAM kits with corporate partners through our partnership with Life Science Cares. Through scientific field trips and curricula, we encourage every student to develop their inner Scientist.
Technology:
Technology puts students in the driver’s seat. Tech is no longer synonymous with big computing companies; these days it’s an essential tool for anyone with the imagination to create! Introducing students to coding, robotics, and AI classes creates a solid educational foundation for the digital world. By demystifying technology and exploring topics such as the ethics of AI, we help students develop the skills and confidence to actively shape the future of the digital world.
Engineering:
Engineering brings ideas to life. We give students projects that take designs from pen and paper (or PC!) and make them a reality. Through hands-on engineering projects and design challenges, students see their ideas come to life and develop a sense of accomplishment, teamwork, and problem-solving that teaches them to tackle even greater challenges.
Art:
Art adds essential creativity. Self-expression is essential for fostering curiosity and growing minds. Through art-focused programs, Art & AI workshops, digital media, painting, and animation, students find ways to express their own identity in STEM fields. Teaching students to bring their individual personalities into their projects shows them how their creativity can inspire innovative thinking. We push for self expression to show them that, in every arena, their voices matter and creativity inspires innovation.
Math:
Math explores the magic of numbers. In our hands, math becomes a tool for understanding the world. It's important that young learners see numbers as an opportunity instead of an obstacle. We offer courses such as Money Mathematics, which teaches students financial literacy including stocks and investing. We also offer Math courses during our Summer Learning Academy to reduce summer learning loss. Our courses show students the importance of embracing Math and how it can be a fun, useful tool in the real world.
These pillars are the backbone of our programs. They fuel our passion for STEAM education. We invite you to support our mission—volunteer, donate, or simply share our story. Together, we can empower the next generation to dream big!