89. Chat with a Physics Teacher ft. Jonathan Stancek (DoD STEM Ambassador)
In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Jonathan Stancek, a high school physics teacher in San Antonio, Texas. We discuss his journey from studying engineering to entering the classroom and his experience teaching math, engineering, and science. We discuss how to better prepare students for the rigor of high school and beyond, plus some of his favorite STEM projects! Jonathan is also a Department of Defense STEM Ambassador, and he shares some incredible resources for teachers and students including curriculum, internships, scholarships, and more.
88. What Does a Brain Feel Like? ft. Maria Garza
In this episode, Natasha chats with Maria Garza, a neuroscientist in San Antonio, Texas. They discuss her research on blind mice, what it feels like to touch a brain and all sorts of interesting questions submitted by elementary and middle school students. This is the audio recording for a Space Club Career Chat that is posted on YouTube and linked in our show notes. We invite you to share this episode or video with your students!
87. How is STEM More Than a Problem?
In today’s episode of The STEM Space, Claire shares an epiphany she had about teaching engineering to her students. Engineering and STEM tend to focus on identifying and solving a problem, but Claire proposes a shift for the way we frame engineering to one that is more inclusive, promotes empathy, and emphasizes growth mindset.
86. A Parent's Perspective of STEM
In today's episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with a special guest, Christy Hall. She joined Claire and Natasha recently in hosting a virtual Space competition called Space Teams, and we reflect on our experiences interviewing astronauts and space architects! Natasha talks with her about Claire, who is the STEM teacher for her two children! She gives an incredible perspective as a parent watching her kids discover STEM learning. We chat about weather balloons and animal habitats and what she believes has been the most valuable lesson her kids have learned from Claire. Enjoy!
85. How to Navigate Vivify STEM's Resources
Are you a STEM educator or parent looking for guidance and resources? Claire and Natasha walk you through the Vivify STEM website which is packed with tons of free resources including instructional videos, activities, and more. Want to plan a year-long STEM program? Read our curriculum map post. Need holiday STEM activities? Download for free from our resource library. We show you all these resources plus how to connect with STEM professionals, join Space Club, check out the latest in STEM websites and competitions, and more!
84. Show Me the Money for STEM
Have you been spending your own money on STEM supplies? We are here to help! In this episode, Natasha and Claire discuss ways to get money for your STEM program. Whether you are interested in writing grants or reaching out to potential donors, we are sharing all of our tips and tricks to get you funded.