STEM Identity: A Reflective Tool for Educators

The materials provided in this guide are intended to introduce educators and program facilitators to concepts related to STEM identity and to help educators practice noticing and responding to the dynamics of STEM identity development in their own programs. These concepts are abstract, and we have accordingly provided a variety of materials to help make them more understandable, practical, and relevant. The tool includes (a) background reading and discussion questions to introduce STEM identity and related concepts; (b) two example scenarios from our research to allow educators to practice recognizing STEM identity work in action; and (c) a structured reflection tool to help educators observe and reflect on STEM identities in their own programs and plan ways to support identity development among their participants.