Silverfield College of Education and Human Services hosts inaugural STEP Into Learning Network Symposium
The Silverfield College of Education and Human Services at the 成人AV视频 proudly hosted the inaugural STEP Into Learning Network Symposium on March 1, 2025. Themed "Bridging the Gap: Building Researcher-Practitioner Partnerships in Early Childhood Education STEAM," this event marked the beginning of an exciting new partnership dedicated to enhancing Early Childhood Education (ECE) through collaborative research and professional development. The STEP Into Learning Network formed out of an existing partnership with the SCOEHS, the 成人AV视频 Preschool and NEFSTEM’s STEP Lab. The Network connects ECE researchers, educators, universities, schools and community partners in an effort to bridge the gap between research and practice. With a focus on inquiry-oriented Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) learning, the Network prioritizes problem-solving, tinkering, exploration and play as key components of early childhood education.
Sponsored by PNC, the symposium featured interactive presentations, breakout sessions and networking opportunities in the STEP Lab. Led by Dr. Adrien Malek-Lasater and the STEP into Learning Network team, the event brought together esteemed presenters, including Dr. Sarah Mattice, Maria Beattie, Dr. Valentina Bongiovanni, Dr. Georgina David, Tasha Felder, Dr. Shaqwana Freeman-Green, Dr. Caran Mullins, Dr. Nile Stanley, Dr. Zhipping Yu, Dr. Shujin Zhong and Xavier Rozas, who shared research-backed strategies for advancing STEAM education.
ECS4Kids supported the event by providing IACET-approved Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for attendees, further enhancing the professional development opportunities available at the symposium.
By bringing together experts from various fields, this symposium laid the foundation for ongoing collaborations within the STEP Into Learning Network. Future initiatives will continue to drive meaningful research and empower educators, children and families in STEAM learning.
For more information, visit the STEP Into Learning Network website.