CLS Environmental STEM Pilot Research Study Data - Artifacts, Documents, Transcripts

This study examines the preparation of STEM teachers in the Rio Grande Valley to implement culturally and linguistically sustaining practices in environmental STEM instruction, addressing the underrepresentation of Hispanic students in STEM fields. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research investigates three teachers' experiences during a professional development program aimed at developing a culturally responsive environmental STEM curriculum. Data were collected through interviews, workshops, and analysis of teacher-developed materials. Findings reveal how teachers learn to leverage students' cultural and linguistic assets, use their own experiences as resources, connect environmental topics to local contexts, adopt student-centered approaches, and promote environmental awareness and civic engagement. The study highlights implementation challenges and teachers' strategies to address them. This research contributes to understanding how educators can be equipped to implement culturally sustaining practices in diverse contexts, potentially increasing student engagement in STEM and addressing educational inequities.