Science for the Future: Incorporating Social Justice into the Science Classroom

Presenter

Chloe Spurr

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Deborah Keisch, Department of Civic Engagement & Service-Learning, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 5, 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C13, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 2 (C11-C20) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

At a time when debates around the human impact of climate change, the importance of vaccines, and other scientific disputes have become more common, there is a desperate need for informed citizens with an understanding of basic science concepts, as well as a STEM workforce made up of people who have been underrepresented in the field and who are able to address the social issues felt in their communities with their work. In order to keep all students engaged in science curriculum, and not just those who are white and male, educators at all levels must incorporate themes of social justice into their science curriculum, whether it is through content or process. As a means to persuade more educators to teach their science lessons through a social justice lens, I am conducting a workshop, in which science educators will present on how and why they incorporate social justice into their science classrooms. This workshop will demonstrate to other educators that it is possible to communicate science lessons effectively, while also keeping social justice in mind. If more educators take the chance to incorporate social justice into their science classrooms, then it will create an informed citizenry, who are able to accurately take part in conversations around science issues, as well as a diverse workforce, who are able to create scientific solutions to problems that underrepresented populations face. 

Keywords

Civic Engagement & Service-Learning, Science, Education

Research Area

Education & Educational Research

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