STEM Studio consists of four unique workshops along a professional learning series. Each workshop builds on the one before it, so educators are encouraged to begin with STEM Studio 1: Developing Inquiry Mindsets before progressing through the rest of the series.

In this workshop, educators will engage in hands-on, inquiry based STEM learning activities and practice using inquiry frameworks, including the 5E instructional model, to deepen their understanding of how to incorporate inquiry practices into their instruction. Participants will explore tools and resources that support implementing inquiry-based practices and fostering an inquiry mindset in students. 

In this workshop, educators will engage in hands-on activities that emphasize making-thinking-visible (MTV) practices and core inquiry principles to strengthen their instructional approach and promote thinking routines in the classroom. Participants will analyze and incorporate practices that deepen students' critical thinking, learn strategies for assessing student thinking, and explore tools and resources that support implementing MTV practices, especially in STEM classrooms.

In this workshop, educators will identify the conditions necessary for creating an authentic inquiry-based learning environment and explore how specific elements shape student engagement and support the inquiry process. Participants will apply design thinking principles to STEM lessons and activities and examine tools and resources that support transforming classrooms into spaces where students engage in real-world inquiry.

In this culminating workshop, educators will bring together the skills and practices developed throughout the STEM Studio series to create the conditions for meaningful free-inquiry learning. Participants will explore how to provide students with autonomy while maintaining guidance and structure that supports deeper thinking and sustained engagement. Building on principles of entrepreneurial thinking, educators will craft real-world challenges that empower students to take ownership of their learning and develop durable, transferable skills.