Girls Science Technology Engineering and Math
(STEM) Institute (GSI)
GSI provides young ladies ages 9-18 an opportunity to develop an understanding of mathematics and other STEM concepts in a meaningful and culturally grounded context. The goal of GSI is not only to strengthen young ladies’ skills and knowledge but also explicitly address how STEM is relevant to their overall wellness and well-being as well as their communities and society at large. GSI also reinforces the importance of higher-level mathematics to their future education. The program aims to help young ladies develop more positive perceptions of mathematics and increase the flow of underrepresented groups to upper level mathematics courses and STEM related degrees and careers. GSI is unique in that it focuses on the whole person through the integration of STEM learning with overall wellness and well-being. GSI partners with various schools and programs within IUPUI, local businesses, and various community partners to serve young ladies. GSI is implemented as a four-week summer enrichment program with year-round follow-up programming. The goals of GSI are to:
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Engage girls and young women in culturally grounded, inquiry-based STEM curricula through hands-on and minds-on experiences.
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Instill girls and young women with the interest and confidence to pursue math or other STEM careers and engage in STEM related extracurricular activities while providing opportunities to interact with STEM professionals.
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Challenge girls and young women to think critically about STEM concepts.
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Empower girls and young women to “read and write world with STEM” (understand how STEM related concepts can be used to address inequities in their personal lives and community).
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Provide academic enrichment through tutorial support, homework help, and state and SAT/ACT test preparation.
During GSI, young ladies participate in STEM explorations, mathematics literacy instruction, a community service project, college campus visits, and social, leadership, and college preparatory development. The program is structured to have participants engage with a diverse group of professionals to help them see that STEM related careers are within their reach.