Empowering Girls in STEM: The Role of Self-Efficacy and Hands-On Experiences - Dr. Tabby Rabenberg, Principal at Bismarck Public Schools

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Dr. Tabby Rabenberg, Principal at Bismarck Public Schools, discusses the critical role of self-efficacy and hands-on experiences in empowering girls to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Drawing from her extensive experience in education, Tabby shares valuable insights into the importance of building confidence and providing diverse opportunities for young students, especially girls, from elementary school through high school.

Through innovative programs and a holistic approach to education, Tabby and her team at Bismarck Public Schools are inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders and preparing them for success in a rapidly evolving world.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The correlation between self-efficacy and interest in STEM fields, especially math and science
• The impact of hands-on experiences on students' confidence and career choices
• Strategies for fostering a growth mindset and building self-confidence in young girls
• The importance of early exposure to STEM opportunities in elementary and middle school - and why starting career exposure in high school is too late
• Innovative approaches to STEM education and career pathways at Bismarck Public Schools

Quotable Moments:

"There is definitely a high statistical significance between the correlation of confidence and interest. And I think what we need to do to encourage that is to offer those [hands-on, career-relevant STEM] classes to all students so that then they can take a look and say, 'oh, yeah, that's something I had no idea was interested in.'"

"We need to start taking a look at those career-ready practices in every class, even from the time that they're in elementary."

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. Creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment is essential for promoting girls' participation and success in STEM: Establishing a culture of diversity and inclusion in STEM education involves breaking down barriers and challenging gender biases. Middle school girls should be able to meet female engineers and scientists, be taught by both male and female STEM teachers, and have access to role models that can help them see themselves in a STEM career.
2. Self-efficacy plays a critical role in shaping girls' perceptions of their abilities and career aspirations in STEM: When girls believe they're capable of succeeding in STEM subjects, they have greater confidence and are more likely to want to take those classes. By promoting a belief in their own capabilities and providing positive role models, educators can empower girls to embrace challenges, persist in their endeavors, and thrive in STEM-related fields.
3. Early exposure and hands-on experiences are essential for empowering girls (and all kids!) in STEM: Schools can't start career prep in high school - it's too late! Instead, elementary school should introduce career awareness, middle school should include career exposure, and high school can move on to career readiness. Learn how BPS is starting career exposure early on with fun, engaging and massively-successful summer camps.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about Bismarck Public Schools, visit: www.bismarckschools.org

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