Transformational Learning in STEM Content Creation

Katie FieldingSTEM

The image displays a collection of STEM notebooks designed by Katie Fielding, including titles such as "Data Science Notebook," "Nature Journal," "STEM Teacher Guide," "5E Science Notebook," "Engineering Notebook," and "Design Thinking Notebook." Each cover features vibrant illustrations related to the content, such as nature scenes, scientific equipment, and engineering tools. To the right of the notebooks, there is a circular diagram titled "Transformational Learning Principles." The diagram consists of three interconnected segments labeled "Nurture," "Guide," and "Empower," with key actions in each: Nurture: Cultivate Belonging, Connect Learning, Ensure Equity. Guide: Spark Curiosity, Develop Expertise, Elevate Reflection. Empower: Prioritize Authentic Experiences, Ignite Agency. The diagram symbolizes a framework for designing impactful learning environments.
Transformational learning principles empower educators to design inclusive, engaging, and impactful STEM resources that inspire curiosity, foster equity, and nurture student agency.

As an educational content creator who loves STEM, my mission is to design resources that are accessible, engaging, and empowering for all learners. Additionally, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles are at the heart of my work, ensuring that my content can be adapted to meet students' variable needs.

The recently released Transformational Learning Principles (TLP) developed by ASCD+ISTE provide an excellent complementary framework that aligns with my commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and dynamic learning environments. As an ISTE-certified educator trainer and Community Leader, here’s how I integrate these principles into my content development process to enhance STEM classrooms.

Transformation principle #1: Nurture

Cultivating belonging

Fostering a sense of belonging is essential for effective learning. UDL principles emphasize designing environments where all students feel included and valued. When creating content, I prioritize opportunities for students to collaborate, brainstorm, and provide feedback, building a sense of community and connection.

I design materials to help educators build relationships and establish a classroom culture where every student feels safe and included. By incorporating empathy, collaboration, and inclusivity, these resources support educators in using UDL strategies to create welcoming environments.

For example, the STEM notebooks I developed in Book Creator include collaborative problem-solving activities in science, data science, design thinking, and engineering. They also offer tips for educators on running a design sprint, introducing a new instructional approach they may not have experienced as students.

15 Science Projects for Book Creator classrooms
Book Creator for the High School Classroom
15 Social Studies Projects
13 Math Projects for Book Creator

Connecting learning to the learner

I design content that connects to students' backgrounds, experiences, and interests while offering open-ended, problem-based activities to engage them in multiple ways.

In the STEM notebooks, students begin by sharing about themselves and taking on the role of investigators. This approach helps them take ownership of their learning journey.

The image shows a yellow background grid labeled "Investigator Profile" at the top in bold red text. Below is a white rectangular box with two sections: On the left, there is a coral-colored square with an outline of a camera icon and the text, "Add a selfie here." On the right, bold text reads "Your name," followed by two prompts: "What mystery of the universe would you most like to solve?" and "If you could have a conversation with any scientist from history, who would it be and why?" At the top right of the white box is a blue circular icon with a speaker symbol, suggesting audio functionality. The design is playful and inviting, encouraging students to share personal and creative reflections.

Student investigator profile page from the 5E notebook.

Ensuring equity

Equity is a core principle of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), focusing on removing barriers to learning and providing equal opportunities for all students. The updated UDL guidelines highlight the importance of honoring the whole child, including their cultural identity and experiences.

Designing culturally responsive and inclusive resources, inspired by Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's "mirrors and windows" metaphor, allows students to see their experiences reflected (mirrors) and understand others' perspectives (windows).

A simple way to create a "mirror" in content is by ensuring students can see themselves represented in the imagery. For example, featuring people of color hiking on the cover of a nature journal signals to students that the content is inclusive and meant for them.

Nature Journal

Transformation principle #2: Guide

Sparking curiosity

Curiosity is the engine of learning. To spark curiosity, we must use multiple means of engagement to ignite students' interest—one of the core principles of the UDL framework.

In my content, I connect to students' experiences and interests. In the Data Science notebook, they explore real-world problems and data sets that matter to them, like sports statistics or social media analytics, making learning more relevant and engaging.

An infographic titled 'How to Ask Data-Driven Questions,' featuring a teal background and structured sections. On the left, a definition explains data-driven questions as those answered by collecting and analyzing data, emphasizing their importance in solving problems. Examples are provided, such as reducing plastic waste or determining popular cafeteria meals. Steps to formulate such questions include identifying problems, being specific, and ensuring measurability. On the right, a prompt invites users to create three data-driven questions based on school or community issues, with numbered spaces (1, 2, 3) for input. A question mark icon decorates the top right corner.

Developing expertise

Developing expertise requires practice and deep understanding. When creating educational content, I focus on supporting students in mastering standards while ensuring teachers can adapt the materials to their specific STEM content.

Three strategies to build expertise:

  1. Model Critical Thinking: Show students how to approach problems and reason through complex ideas by thinking aloud during lessons.
  2. Use Inquiry-Based Learning: Frame lessons around questions to spark curiosity and encourage students to explore and take ownership of their learning.
  3. Provide Varied Practice: Include different types of problems and skills in assignments to help students apply concepts in various contexts

Elevating reflection

Reflection helps students think critically about their learning. I include tools and prompts to encourage both individual and group reflection, helping students assess their progress, apply feedback, and personalize their learning experience.

Creative tools like Book Creator allow students to reflect in video, audio, or text, ensuring they can focus on reflection without being limited by communication barriers.

Video response templates in Book Creator

Design Thinking Notebook by Katie Fielding. With a bold red background, this cover features creative graphics such as brains, abstract art, and prototyping tools, symbolizing brainstorming and problem-solving.

Transformation principle #3: Empower

Prioritizing authentic experiences

Authentic learning is key, especially in STEM education. Problem-based learning encourages students to experiment, tinker, and explore, sparking curiosity and creativity around real-world problems.

In my adaptations of STEM notebooks, I’ve designed specific challenges, like creating a sculpture, to connect learning to real-world scenarios. This approach helps students develop practical skills and build the confidence to tackle future challenges.

Igniting agency

Empowering students to own their learning is a key UDL principle. My content emphasizes learner-led approaches and flexible formats to suit individual strengths and preferences.

In my Engineering and Design Thinking notebooks, students make choices and share their learning throughout the process. At the end, they showcase their prototypes to communicate what they’ve learned.

Now it's your turn to reflect

As you develop your next lesson or resource, challenge yourself to incorporate the Transformational Learning Principles into your planning. By doing so, you will create more meaningful and impactful learning experiences and foster a classroom environment where students feel empowered, engaged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Let’s commit to designing content that nurtures curiosity, guides growth, and empowers students for the future.

Image

Get Book Creator for your school!

  • Upgraded accounts for all your teachers
  • Implementation plan to help with rollout
  • PD support
  • Analytics & admin dashboard

Related posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *