Discovering A New World of Opportunities

Tech Turn Up embarked on a journey to provide science, technology Engineering Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) programming services to Ward 7-8 students.

Our analysis has shown a troubling trend of underperformance among under-resourced students in STEAM subjects.

One of the primary factors identified was the lack of role models in the community who have pursued careers in STEAM fields.  "The phrase 'you don't know what you don't know' is frequently used by members within the communities we serve."  

What does the phrase mean? A person can be unaware of or lacks knowledge, which could impact their decision-making or understanding of a situation.

"It's important to remember that not knowing something it's not always a matter of personal fault, but rather a lack of information or awareness."

A group of middle school students at a local public charter school in Ward 7 of Washington, DC, were allowed to participate in a STEAM program. The program would provide hands-on experience in different areas of STEAM, and the students would work on projects that interested them.

The students who joined the program didn't believe they had the skills to excel in STEAM activities like problem-solving, algorithms, basic coding, social media, and digital media.

Not having a lot of knowledge about STEAM or connection with a community figure who has pursued a career in STEAM didn't help to build student confidence either.

One particular student named Jeremiah stood out from the group. He was hesitant to join the program, but his curiosity got the better of him. 

He had a very negative attitude coming into the program and did not believe he could succeed.  

The program taught the students the basics of coding, problem-solving, and digital media. They worked on different projects, and they got constructive feedback.

Jeremiah struggled initially but enjoyed being in the program and what if offered.

Another student who was bullied at the beginning of the class gained new popularity, among students, due to his high level of understanding of coding and technology.

Tech Turn Up invited students to participate in a technology award event. At this event, students discussed their projects and showcased their digital and print artwork.

Jeremiah was nervous but excited to show off what he had learned. Other students, however, were hesitant to participate.  Jeremiah initially did not want to participate in the class and became the class spokesperson.

All of the students received a round of applause and praise for their work. At that moment, the students realized they had a lot to offer and were just as capable as anyone else of being part of the STEAM movement.  

Students who decided to participate in the program learned an important lesson: I can be successful in STEAM.

By remaining open to new possibilities and willing to trust in themselves, this experience transformed the students' outlook. They realized that they were more than just their circumstances. 

They had the potential to succeed in STEAM subjects and beyond. The lack of knowledge and role models in their community within STEAM careers didn't have to hold them back. They could be role models for future generations.