STEM Education: The Braided River Approach

Unlock the secrets behind creating holistic STEM learning environments with our insightful guest, Dr. Stephanie Schwab, a STEM program administrator at Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. Through our conversation, Stephanie introduces the compelling concept of the "braided river," challenging traditional notions of workforce development pathways and emphasizing the importance of nurturing STEM-literate citizens. Dive into the collaborative efforts of diverse sectors in supporting vibrant STEM education ecosystems that transcend classroom walls.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of prioritizing collaboration over competition and the value of sharing best practices to inspire rather than duplicate efforts. Reflecting on the "braided river" analogy, we highlight the role of educational service agencies and servant leadership in fostering collective growth. Our conversation closes with a powerful reminder: providing opportunities for all students to visualize their future is crucial, as students can't aspire to roles they are not exposed to. Don't forget to subscribe and join the conversation on social media as we continue to explore these vital topics.

Want to learn more about ChangED? Check out our website at: learn.mciu.org/changed

Chapters

• 0:06 Building STEM Learning Ecosystems
• 10:59 Fostering Collaborative STEM Ecosystems
• 19:19 Collaboration in STEM Ecosystems
• 23:10 Collective Impact and Braided Rivers