UC Davis C-STEM Brings Computer Science into Redlands Classrooms
Since 2010, the University of California, Davis, Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education, or C-STEM, has aimed to transform K-12 math, computer science and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) education through integrated learning. Launched by Harry Cheng, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at UC Davis, the center's Joint Computer Science Supplementary Teaching Credential Authorization Program recently graduated 25 teachers from Redlands Unified School District.
The joint program is offered by the UC Davis and UC Riverside extension, and offers training in integrating computer science into math education in K-12 curricula. Redlands is the first school district in the nation that has 25 teachers who have gone through four college-level courses needed to earn their credential.
"Redlands is a good example of a school district working with C-STEM to address the 'opportunity gap' in math education," said Cheng, who serves as C-STEM's director. "Schools are working to get students back on track after the pandemic. The students are doing better, closing the achievement gap and teachers are learning new skills, closing the skills gap."