Meet the STEMinists of COE

Meet the STEMinists of COE

This impressive group of educators draws upon their diverse education, work experiences and interests to promote the idea that science, technology, engineering and math are for everyone—regardless of gender.

Who are they? Srimani Chakravarthi, Associate Professor of Education Erin Evans, Associate Professor of Education Maureen Hunt, College of Education Licensure Officer Cathy Nelson, Professor of Education Cindy Sloan, College of Education Associate Dean

Q | When did you discover your passion for STEM?

Cathy: Math has always been my favorite subject. Whenever I played “school” as a child, I was always the math teacher. I found I really enjoyed chemistry in high school, in my honor’s chemistry lab, when we got to use Bunsen burners and chemicals that turned cool colors. Maureen: As a child I loved being outdoors and exploring. We spent summers in the Ozark Mountains and I loved watching plants grow and observing animal behavior around our cabin. In 7th grade we built lead acid batteries and conducted various experiments. In 8th grade we had chemistry, with concentrated acid and other cool experiments. We learned by doing and then studying the why. Cindy: I’ve been interested in science since second grade when I earned a 2nd place ribbon for my science fair experiment—Which is lighter, cold or hot water? My love for animals began at about the same time. We lived in an apartment building in Chicago and my mother told me that we were not allowed to have pets but offered a compromise and gave me two small Red-eared Sliders (turtles).

Q | How does STEM influence your responsibilities in the College of Education?

Erin: My elementary science methods students apply STEM into a unit that they design and co-teach in a local partner school in Joliet 86. I have also chaired various STEM initiatives over the years including a STEM Family Night at St. Ray’s and co-teaching science with elementary faculty/alum in the local area. Srimani: I include STEM in my methods courses and encourage teacher candidates to consider how they can make STEM content accessible to all learners, including those with special and other diverse needs. I also convey my love for technology by incorporating it within my teaching, exploring the use of tech tools such as website creation, interactive quizzes, and self-paced modules.

Q | Do you have any interesting STEM-related hobbies or interests?

very) competitive! I calculate the probability of cards being drawn to guide my strategy, and when I play Jenga, I use engineering principles to help determine which block to remove and replace to render the structure unstable for my opponents. Srimani: Being a STEMist took me to the White House Science Fair in 2016, with a team of 9th graders I mentored for a National Science competition. It brings me great joy to see students’ excitement build in the scientific inquiry process, using technology tools and data analysis as they progress through the six months of the experiment. Working with school-age children in this capacity certainly helps to enrich my teaching practices here at USF. Cindy: My home is filled with evidence of my love for science. I garden, culture kombucha and keifer, and maintain both fresh and salt water aquarium tanks. Furry critters are also a big part of my life. I have three Golden Retrievers who I love and train. Frog is a therapy dog, Jake will soon be a companion dog, and Fin(negan) is just three months old, but we have high expectations for him as well!

Q | What advice would you like to share with girls on the importance of STEM?

Q | What advice would you like to share with girls on the importance of STEM? Erin: Females comprise half of the population, so I would love for us to be better-represented in STEM fields, including teaching, since STEM engagement can and should start at an early age! Cathy: Find your passion and fully explore it. Take advantage of any and all opportunities, such as math team, space camp, and computer classes. These types of experiences will allow you to see the application of the subjects in the real world. Srimani: Girls in STEM rock! Science and math are in everything and we use it every day, just like the technology tools that we cannot live without. You cannot go wrong in choosing a STEM career. Maureen: To me STEM is about why. Rather than accept something just because we were told about it, STEM stresses questioning. It is about being an active decision maker in all aspects of life. Many careers rely on the ability to think, question and contribute, all of which are key pieces to the STEM mind. Cindy: Don’t be intimidated; STEM subjects are not just for boys and they are FUN! Dive in and get your hands dirty with whatever interests you. STEM subjects are a huge part of life and are all around us. Look for opportunities to learn in your kitchen, on your computer, in your Lego box, or in your yard.