talkSTEM

Overview

talkSTEM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering engagement with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) among learners of all backgrounds. Its mission is to promote STEM education as an integral and accessible part of everyday life, emphasizing place-based learning to highlight the relevance of STEM concepts in local communities and environments. Founded in 2015 by Dr. Koshi Dhingra, talkSTEM aims to address the underrepresentation of diverse groups in STEM fields by providing free, research-based resources to educators and learners.

Initiatives and Resources

• walkSTEM Initiative: Encourages students and educators to explore STEM concepts through guided walks in various settings such as neighborhoods, parks, and zoos. This initiative helps learners recognize the presence of STEM in everyday environments.

• Open-Access Video Library: Offers over 250 standards-aligned educational videos for free, accessible through the talkSTEM YouTube channel and other platforms. These videos are designed to inspire STEM interest by connecting real-world phenomena to classroom learning.

• MathFinder Initiative: Developed in partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) and supported by NSF funding, this initiative focuses on enhancing math education through digital tools and content.

• Teacher Professional Development: Provides training courses and resources for educators to integrate talkSTEM strategies into their teaching practices.

• Publications and Events: Produces books and guides for STEM education at various levels and supports community events that promote STEM engagement.

Partnerships

talkSTEM collaborates with a broad range of organizations, including Dallas Independent School District, Girls Inc., and Imagine Science, to reach under-resourced student populations and promote equity in STEM education. These partnerships are crucial to its mission of making STEM accessible and inclusive for all learners.

Financial Information

talkSTEM primarily relies on contributions for its funding, with donations supporting its educational programs and content creation. As a nonprofit, donations made to talkSTEM are tax-deductible.

Leadership

Dr. Koshi Dhingra serves as the CEO and founder of talkSTEM, bringing extensive experience in science education and leadership roles in academic settings. The organization's leadership and trustees do not receive compensation for their roles, reflecting talkSTEM's commitment to using funds directly for educational initiatives.

Impact

By making high-quality STEM educational content freely available, talkSTEM plays a significant role in enhancing STEM literacy and fostering a STEM mindset among diverse learners. Its efforts contribute to addressing the critical need for diverse talent in STEM fields, aligning with national strategies to ensure the U.S. maintains a competitive STEM workforce.