STEM-Views: Diana Wolterman

Name: Diana Wolterman

Title: Education Project Manager in Residence at Metro High School

Organization: Battelle

1) What do you believe is the most pressing issue in STEM education today?

Getting people to understand that STEM education is not just a longer list of math & science courses. Even students interested in subjects like art and history and want careers in other fields need to learn how to synthesize information and think critically about issues and solving problems. The ability to succeed in college and ultimately in a career that requires independent thought is reliant on the types of skills that a STEM education can convey.

2) How does your work impact STEM education?

One of the things I do is bring business strategies and project management principles into the school system and help foster partnerships that benefit both parties, just like business relationships. It’s important that today’s schools don’t rely on old habits but are instead always seeking fresh ideas and adopting practices that are innovative and push the status quo. Helping our school stay connected to other innovative STEM schools in the state is a great way to build capacity.

3) What do you think is the most important part of a successful STEM curriculum?

Problem based learning. Students need to learn by doing things that are relevant and real. Working to solve a real issue or problem that doesn’t have an answer waiting in the back of the text book is a very valuable learning experience. Hands-on projects are also critically important.

4) What STEM profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt?
When I was young I wanted to become a teacher, but somehow I never followed up on that in school. I think that’s why I jumped at the chance to come to Metro as Battelle’s STEM liaison!