STEM, Critical Thinking, and AI: Building Skills for the Future! and Having Fun!

Class Experience Description

In this class, you will learn how to think like a scientist, analyze information critically, and apply STEM skills to real-world problems. You will explore how AI works, how to evaluate evidence, and how to solve challenges creatively, helping you develop essential problem-solving and communication skills for the future. NOTE: Students will NOT actually use AI in class due to possible misuse issues.

What Will You Learn?

You will learn how to think critically, ask scientific questions, and use evidence to make decisions. You will also explore the role of AI in today’s world, learning how machines learn, where AI is useful, and how to spot misinformation. Through hands-on activities, you will apply STEM skills to solve real-world problems and communicate complex ideas with confidence.

What Topics Will You Cover?

Throughout this course, you will explore:
	•	The Scientific Mindset – How to ask the right questions and think critically.
	•	AI & Decision-Making – How artificial intelligence learns and impacts the world.
	•	Misinformation & Evidence – How to separate fact from fiction using STEM reasoning.
	•	Hands-On Problem-Solving – Applying science and engineering to real-world challenges.
	•	Innovation & Creativity – How scientists and engineers develop new ideas.
	•	STEM Communication – How to explain scientific concepts clearly and persuasively.
	•	The Future of STEM & AI – How technology is shaping the world and why critical thinking matters.

How Is the Class Structured?

Each session will be interactive and project-based, allowing you to apply what you learn through activities and discussions. You will:
	•	Explore key concepts through videos, slides, and demonstrations.
	•	Participate in interactive problem-solving challenges to apply STEM skills.
	•	Discuss and analyze real-world examples in group discussions.
	•	Complete project submissions based on what you’ve learned.
	•	Have the option to submit projects for peer review to receive feedback from classmates.

How Will You Be Taught?

You will learn through hands-on activities, real-world applications, and interactive discussions. Lessons include STEM challenges, problem-solving tasks, and digital tools to make learning engaging and relevant. You will ask questions, test ideas, and explain your reasoning, just like a scientist.

What’s My Teaching Style?

You will learn in a fun, interactive, and thought-provoking environment where questioning and problem-solving are encouraged. My teaching style is inquiry-driven and student-centered, helping you develop confidence in your thinking, explore new ideas, and apply scientific reasoning in real-world situations.

How Much Will You Get to Interact?

This is a highly interactive class, where you will:
	•	Engage in discussions and Q&A sessions to explore ideas in-depth.
	•	Take part in hands-on challenges and problem-solving tasks that encourage active learning.
	•	Submit projects, which I will monitor and provide feedback on to support your progress.
	•	Have the option to submit projects for peer review, giving you the opportunity to receive feedback from your classmates.
	•	Use videos, slides, and interactive activities to make concepts clear and engaging.

By the end of this course, you will have developed the STEM, AI, and critical thinking skills needed to solve problems, evaluate information, and communicate ideas like a scientist.