Why S.T.E.A.M. awareness is so important for minority girls

Raioni Madison, Founder of 3D Girls Inc., delves into STEAM education. In today's rapidly evolving world, the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) are not only expanding but also shaping the future of industries. However, for many minority girls, representation and access to quality STEAM education remains a challenge. Today, Raioni discusses why STEAM awareness is important for minority girls.
About the speaker

Raioni Madison

3D Girls, Inc.

- 3D Girls, Inc.

Raioni Madison is Founder at 3D Girls Inc.

Show Notes

  • 00:51
    The importance of STEAM education
    STEAM is a concept that focuses on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Access to STEAM education for youth and girls is critical as it is one of the largest career paths for future employment.
  • 01:44
    Raionis personal journey into STEAM education
    Raionis interest in STEAM developed naturally from a young age, fueled by curiosity and a love for understanding how things work. Exposure to opportunities, like the Upper Bound program at Clark Atlanta University, further ignited her passion for subjects like chemistry and biology.
  • 02:52
    Challenges faced by girls in STEAM education access
    Girls often encounter a gender gap in pursuing STEM college and career pathways, with only about 34% pursuing such endeavors. Early exposure to STEAM education is crucial for nurturing curiosity and paving the way for greater engagement and opportunities in STEM fields.
  • 05:47
    The importance of building fundamental STEAM knowledge
    Building fundamental knowledge in STEAM during third through eighth grade is essential for fostering confidence and interest in advanced concepts. Incorporating STEAM education with social-emotional wellness and addressing literacy gaps is vital for engaging students.
  • 09:07
    Access and representation in STEM for minorities
    The struggle for minorities in STEM fields is primarily rooted in the lack of access and representation rather than academic ability. There's a critical need to create accessible pathways for underrepresented groups to see themselves positively in STEM careers.
  • 10:55
    Inspiring girls in STEM through real
    Girls discover their passion for STEM through real-life connections and hands-on experiences. By linking STEM concepts to their interests, girls are empowered to see the practical applications of STEM in their everyday lives and inspired to pursue diverse career paths.
  • 15:42
    Social emotional learning for girls
    49% of black girls experienced more attempts of suicide, low self-esteem, and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. 3D Girls Inc. aims to equip them with coping and resilience skills from third grade to foster the confidence to pursue their goals and dreams.

Quotes

  • "There's a gender gap in girls pursuing STEAM college and career pathways. About 34% of girls pursue those college and career endeavors and majors." - Raioni Madison

  • "9% of the STEM workforce is black women. Accessibility and creating opportunities for girls to see themselves in a positive light in those fields is important." - Raioni Madison

  • "If you can't read and write well, it's going to be very hard for you to research and report on scientific findings." - Raioni Madison

  • "For girls to enjoy STEM, we have to connect it to what they enjoy on a day-to-day basis, and it has to be real-life applicable." - Raioni Madison

  • "When girls are able to be resilient in hardships and be resilient in failure, they are more likely to pursue their dreams and their goals." - Raioni Madison

About the speaker

Raioni Madison

3D Girls, Inc.

- 3D Girls, Inc.

Raioni Madison is Founder at 3D Girls Inc.

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