Presenter: Lisa Cole & Vanessa Ironside
Workshop Description
Join us in this session to explore how we might work differently together to imagine and create a new space for innovative STEM teaching and learning. Tackling complex social and environmental problems requires diverse perspectives! Our world needs creative problem solvers, critical thinkers, change makers, innovators and leaders to create more equitable futures for all. In this session, we will share our current thinking at k2i academy, Lassonde School of Engineering at York University and the tools we use to imagine and create with our partners. Let's connect and dream together!
Bio
Lisa Cole
Director of Programming, k2i academy at Lassonde School of Engineering, York University
Lisa Cole is the Director of Programming for Lassonde’s Kindergarten to Industry Academy (k2i) program at York University. She is a passionate educator, system leader in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Education and committed to public education.
Lisa is an award winning high school physics/science and mathematics teacher and former president of the Ontario Association of Physics Teachers. Lisa is passionate about equitable access to STEM education and is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM. Lisa has experience providing teacher workshops across Ontario (conferences and local training sessions), consulting on the development of resources for teachers, managing large scale projects, developing multi-stakeholder partnerships, and facilitating diverse teams.
Lisa believes that STEM literacy is important for all learners. Through her work, she hopes to inspire educators, students, and communities to become future innovators, critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Vanessa Ironside
Program Officer, k2i academy at Lassonde School of Engineering, York University
Vanessa Ironside is Program Officer with k2i academy at the Lassonde School of Engineering. Prior to joining k2i academy, she worked for the University of Waterloo Engineering Science Quest, the University of Toronto Engineering Outreach and most recently Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach. Vanessa has extensive experience developing and delivering hands on STEM content in formal and informal settings with a large focus on inclusive and equitable programs. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology and History & Philosophy of Science and a Master of Education in Development Psychology both from the University of Toronto. She is passionate about making STEM Education accessible, inclusive, and engaging to all students and preparing educators with the tools to implement innovative new teaching practices.