Presented by Nia Keith, Director, Professional Development, EiE, Museum of Science, Boston
Hosted by Heather Gunsallus, Executive Director, Professional Development, Sales and Operations, the Museum of Science, Boston
Sponsored by EiE | Museum of Science

Watch the Recording

Anyone, even the youngest learners can think like an engineer. Do you want to learn how to channel young learners’ curiosity and creativity into structured problem solving? Watch as we talk about the power of the engineering design process and how it empowers young children to see themselves as problem solvers.

In this edWebinar, Nia Keith, Director of Professional Development for EiE at the Museum of Science, Boston, discusses research, tips and strategies for how engineering:

• Helps children develop important 21st century skills like critical thinking, collaborating, and persevering through failure
• Engages students in ways that align with their learning style so all students—including English learners, those students who have not flourished with more traditional instruction, and those who receive special education services—can thrive in the classroom
• Supports ongoing reflection in young problem solvers
• Promotes social-emotional learning, language acquisition, executive functioning and fine and gross motor skills development

You’ll learn ways to engage children in conversations that help to expand their curiosity and teach them that it’s OK to fail and try again. This recorded session will be of particular benefit to preK providers, and preK-3 teachers, librarians, and school and district leaders.

About the Presenter

Nia Keith is the director of professional development for EiE at the Museum of Science, Boston. She attended The Ohio State University, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in women’s studies. As a teen, Nia believed that she was “bad at science”, but with a passion for environmental advocacy, she began working as an environmental educator at the Student Conservation Association. This experience proved that she possessed an aptitude for science education. She went on to earn a Master of Science degree, with a focus on curriculum development, and to become a certified middle school science teacher in Massachusetts. Since then Nia has lead several initiatives, in both formal and informal education, including Mass Audubon’s Urban Adventures program. Her professional goal is to help every child, regardless of gender, race, or background, find a love and a connection to the sciences.

About the Host

Heather Gunsallus joined the Museum of Science in Boston during April 2018 as their executive director of sales, professional development and operations. She is passionate about building STEM programs that impact students’ and teachers’ lives, while building lifelong learners. Heather has 20 years of experience in education. She has extensive experience building and implementing both print and digital products for today’s users. Heather has managed curriculum development, professional development and sales teams, and was even a classroom teacher. Heather graduated with a Bachelor of Science in secondary education with a concentration in mathematics.

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EiE is an award-winning program of the Museum of Science, Boston. Their research based curricula (preK-8) introduces all learners to the engineering design process and create the next generation of problem solvers.