If black males only make up 2% of teachers in the United States World Teachers' Day: Black men make up only 2% of teachers in the US. | CNN, try to imagine black male teachers in STEAM education. The National Center of Education statistics say the same applies to male Hispanic teachers. Black and brown male teachers are essential in providing schools with the cultural and emotional support to make our youths thrive. Here is my humble recommendation for addressing the low representation of black male teachers in STEAM education.
Increase exposure to STEAM fields: Many Black males may not have had the opportunity to learn about STEAM fields or may not be aware of the options available in these fields. By increasing exposure to STEAM through events, workshops, and mentorship programs, we can help spark interest and provide guidance for those interested in pursuing STEAM careers.
Address systemic racism: Racism and discrimination can create a hostile environment for Black males in STEAM fields, leading to low representation and high attrition rates. Addressing systemic racism and creating a more inclusive environment in STEAM fields can help attract and retain Black males.
Provide mentorship and support: Mentorship and support programs can help guide and encourage Black males interested in pursuing STEAM careers. Programs like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Black Male College Explorers Program can provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional development resources to help Black males succeed in STEAM careers.
Increase access to resources: One of the main barriers to Black male representation in STEAM is the lack of access to resources, such as computers, textbooks, and other educational materials. Providing more resources to schools and communities with a high proportion of Black males can help to level the playing field and give these students more opportunities to learn about STEAM subjects.
It is vital to continue to advocate for and invest in programs and initiatives that aim to increase the representation of Black and brown males in STEAM education and careers. By doing so, we can help to ensure that Black males have the resources and support they need to succeed in these fields and contribute to innovation and progress.
Authored by Dr. Ayo Olufade, Ph.D.
Think STEM Careers! You Have The Opportunity to Create The Future And The Privilege Of Deciding What's In It! ~ Dr. Ayo Olufade, PhD
Excel in Learning. Excel in Life.
댓글