SECO’s 2025 symposium theme is Innovate! (
), and there are a few different strands. As described on their symposium page, the strands consist of: 1) “Inquire and Inspire!” to equip educators with tools and strategies to implement stimulating, hands-on learning experiences that inspire students to explore, question, and discover; 2) “Optimize and Visualize!” entails a future-focused vision for science education in various levels, initiatives, collaborations, and grant writing work, addressing equity and diversity in science; and 3) “Advance Technology and STEM Learning!” is focused on best practices for integrating technology applications, computer science and data literacy, real-world connections, and workforce development into high quality science instruction.
Sarah Westbrook, RQI’s director of professional learning, will be a keynote speaker of the symposium. The presentation titled “The Power of Question Formulation for Scientific Innovation, Agency, and Identity” will explore the following questions:
- Why is asking your own questions powerful, and what are the barriers that prevent some people from doing so?
- How do we ensure that all students feel greater agency at school (and beyond)?
- How can questioning challenge traditional power structures and move us closer to more equitable, inclusive schools and communities?
Here are the resources from the keynote:
Here are the resources from the breakout: