Creating Equity-Focused STEM Learning Programs with k2i academy

Abstract k2i (kindergarten to industry) academy within the Lassonde School of Engineering at York University works to meaningfully design and integrate equity and inclusion based science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs into all areas of education. These programs address systemic barriers that limit youth from succeeding in STEM areas, pursuing further education and finding a place in industry. The Bringing STEM to Life: Work-Integrated Learning program was designed to address inequities for underrepresented high school students by offering a high school physics credit during the summer in addition to a paid position as a Lab Assistant collaborating with Lassonde Faculty researchers and industry partners. k2i academy partners with school boards in the greater Toronto area to identify Women, Black and Indigenous students within their communities to participate in the experience. The educators, faculty researchers and undergraduate mentors who facilitate the work collaborate to create culturally relevant curriculum that focuses on engineering design, coding and computational thinking with a focus on sustainability through the use of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.