118. Adventures in Engineering Education with Rachelle Pedersen

118. Adventures in Engineering Education with Rachelle Pedersen

8/25/2023

Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with one of her favorite people and classmates at Texas A&M University, Rachelle Pedersen! Natasha and Rachelle are both doctoral students in curriculum and instruction, and one of the few focused on engineering education. Rachelle shares her experiences teaching high school technology and engineering, including one of her favorite engineering design challenges. They also discuss the overwhelming expectations of STEM education and strategies to support teachers.

Rachelle Pedersen is a Graduate Research Assistant and Instructor of Record for the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Engineering Science (Concentration Technology Education) from Colorado State University and a Masters of Science in Curriculum & Instruction (Emphasis Science Education) from Texas A&M University. Her research focuses on motivation and social influences (e.g. mentoring and identity development) that support underrepresented students in STEM fields. She is also on the Board of Directors for the Cosmic Leap Foundation and the Outreach Chair for the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program at Texas A&M. Prior to graduate school, Rachelle taught high school technology and engineering education (Robotics/Engineering, AP Computer Science, and Video Production) and advised several after-school programs (e.g., Technology Student Association, Girls in STEM, Stage Crew).

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

• 98. Who is an Engineer?

• 91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

• How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward

• Engineering in the Science Classroom

Vivify STEM Lessons

• STEM Scope & Sequence (Pacing Guides) - FREE!!

• Roller Coaster STEM Challenge

  • Elementary School Version (K-5)

  • Middle School Version (5-8)

• Interview Questions to ask STEM Professionals - FREE!!

Other STEM Resources

• What is CTE? (from the Association of Career and Technical Education)

• Vivify STEM Curriculum Map

• Learn More About Space Club Career Chats

• Voya Foundation’s National STEM Fellowship in partnership with the NNSTOY

• WiSE at Texas A&M University

• Skype a Scientist

• Rachelle’s Favorite STEM Lesson: Making Cents of the Nature of Engineering

• Quick Tips

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