STEM 202 helped me shift my thinking from simply knowing content to understanding how to teach it effectively and equitably. This course emphasized the importance of how teachers, students, and content interact, and how thoughtful instruction can make a lasting impact.

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One of the most valuable takeaways was learning how to use different instructional models like direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, and small group activities. By planning and teaching 5E lessons with peers, then analyzing student artifacts, I learned to evaluate what students understood and how to adjust my instruction to meet their needs. This process made me a more reflective and responsive educator.

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Equity was a key focus throughout the course. Observing real classrooms and analyzing participation data made me more aware of how teaching decisions can include or exclude students. I became more intentional about creating lessons that support all learners, including students with disabilities, English language learners, and those from diverse backgrounds.

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We also explored how technology can strengthen learning and student engagement. Tools like Desmos and collaborative platforms allowed for interactive learning and helped build stronger connections between students and content.

Overall, STEM 202 gave me a clearer understanding of what effective, inclusive teaching looks like and laid a strong foundation for my future classroom.