Bridging Classroom to Career: Insights from IIHS & Pittsburgh Public Schools
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Release Date: 09/24/2025
Empowering Educators to Transform STEM Learning
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of Smartlab, and Dave from The PocketLab delve into the transformative power of STEM education in K-12 settings. They discuss the importance of fostering a STEM identity among students, emphasizing that it's not just about mastering technology but about cultivating a sense of belonging and confidence in tackling rigorous challenges. Dr. Berry shares insights from her experience at Smart Lab, highlighting how hands-on, project-based learning environments can ignite students' curiosity and drive, leading to those pivotal "aha" moments that signify true understanding and...
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A Journey to Antartica with Miles O'Brien: A Virtual Field Trip
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Join Miles O'Brien and Dave as they embark on a thrilling scientific expedition to Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier, one of the most significant glaciers on Earth. Miles is getting ready to host us virtually for a virtual field trip for your students. Sign up link below! In this episode, they delve into the innovative methods used to study the glacier's melting patterns, including the use of icebreakers and helicopters. The discussion highlights the critical role of logistics in conducting research in such remote and challenging environments, offering a unique glimpse into the real-world...
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The Curiosity Playbook: Inspiring Students Through Hands-On Discovery
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
The Hip Hop MD, Maynard Okereke, and Dave delve into the world of STEM education and its impact on young minds. With a focus on fostering curiosity and creativity, they discuss innovative ways to inspire students through hands-on experiments and real-world problem-solving. Maynard shares insights from his experiences at STEM festivals and competitions, highlighting the incredible potential of students when they are encouraged to explore and innovate. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities within the education system, emphasizing the importance of integrating...
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Demystifying AI: Practical Classroom Ideas from Code.org
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Join Code.org and us on an exciting journey into the world of AI and computer science education with Anchal Sayal! In this episode, we explore how Code.org is revolutionizing the way students from kindergarten to 12th grade engage with technology. Discover how AI is not just a tool but a catalyst for creativity and critical thinking in the classroom. Anchal shares her insights on the importance of teaching students to navigate the digital landscape with curiosity and confidence, ensuring they are prepared for the future. Dive into the conversation as we discuss the challenges and opportunities...
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Science Showmanship: Turning Lessons into Adventures with Steve Spangler
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Join Steve Spangler and Dave from The PocketLab as they delve into the art of making science accessible and exciting for K-12 students. Steve shares his journey from being inspired by his high school chemistry teacher to becoming a renowned science communicator. He emphasizes the importance of presentation in teaching, drawing parallels between magic and science to captivate students' curiosity. Through anecdotes and insights, Steve and Dave explore how simple demonstrations can transform a classroom into a hub of wonder and learning. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of...
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Small Phenomena, Big Impact: Using AI to Inspire Discovery
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Director of Education, Jason Singh and our host, Dave, discuss the integration of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of simple phenomena in teaching, the potential of AI tools for educators, and the challenges of maintaining academic integrity and privacy. They explore effective prompting techniques for AI, the rapid evolution of AI tools, and the manageable learning curve for educators. The discussion highlights the need for teachers to stay updated with AI advancements and critically evaluate AI-generated content, ultimately encouraging educators to embrace AI as a valuable...
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The Art of Learning: Guy Kawasaki on AI and Education’s Next Wave
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Guy Kawasaki sits down with Dave to discuss the intersection of technology, education, and personal growth. Guy shares his unique perspective on how his upbringing in Hawaii, with its rich cultural tapestry and values of Aloha and Ohana, has influenced his approach to life and business. The discussion delves into the critical role of education in shaping future innovators, the challenges faced by educators in promoting STEM, and the potential of AI as a transformative tool in the classroom. Guy and Dave explore the importance of fostering a love for learning, the need for educational...
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From the ER to EdTech: Problem-Solving Mindsets for STEM
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
STEM City host and emergency room doctor, Dr. Owais Durrani and Dave from The PocketLab embark on a comprehensive exploration of the dynamic world of STEM education and its intersection with technology. The conversation kicks off with Owais sharing his unique journey from the medical field to becoming a media personality, driven by a passion to make STEM subjects more accessible and engaging for young minds. Dave, drawing from his rich experience in Silicon Valley, discusses the democratization of technology and how it has lowered barriers for aspiring entrepreneurs, enabling them to...
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Bridging Classroom to Career: Insights from IIHS & Pittsburgh Public Schools
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
With our special guests (Becky Mueller) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (think car crash tests) and Science Coordinator (Lisa Milan) for Pittsburgh Public Schools, we delve into the transformative impact of integrating real-world experiences into classroom curriculum. Discover how educators are bridging the gap between theory and practice, bringing lessons to life with hands-on learning and real-world applications. By connecting classroom learning with the world outside, teachers are preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow. We also explore how these innovative...
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Fail Forward: Creating Safe-to-Fail Science Classrooms with Sciesmic
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Former award winning teacher and expert curriculum writer, Matthew Schmidt and Dave from The PocketLab explore the dynamic intersection of education and technology. They kick off with a light-hearted discussion on how virtual meetings have redefined our sense of connection, especially in a post-pandemic world. The conversation then shifts to the challenges and opportunities in modern education, highlighting the importance of filling gaps in traditional curriculums with innovative resources. Matthew shares his journey from a non-traditional teaching background to creating impactful educational...
info_outlineWith our special guests (Becky Mueller) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (think car crash tests) and Science Coordinator (Lisa Milan) for Pittsburgh Public Schools, we delve into the transformative impact of integrating real-world experiences into classroom curriculum. Discover how educators are bridging the gap between theory and practice, bringing lessons to life with hands-on learning and real-world applications. By connecting classroom learning with the world outside, teachers are preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow.
We also explore how these innovative strategies are forging vital career connections for students. Offering a glimpse into potential career paths, educators are equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in their future careers. Join us for inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical tips from educators who are redefining education and empowering students to navigate their future with confidence.
Crash Science in the Classroom Lesson Materials
ABOUT BECKY
Senior Research Engineer, IIHS
Ms. Mueller develops new crash tests for IIHS vehicle ratings that reflect unaddressed real-world scenarios in which injuries occur. Her work led to an updated side test and the first passenger-side frontal test in the Institute’s suite of evaluations. Ms. Mueller has also researched injuries of vulnerable road users, advanced crash test dummies and new injury metrics. Prior to joining IIHS in 2010, Ms. Mueller worked on research projects for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at the Transportation Research Center in Ohio. During her graduate studies, she worked at General Motors on frontal crash and pedestrian performance of future vehicles. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin and a master's degree from Purdue University.
ABOUT LISA
K-12 Science Coordinator, Pittsburgh Public Schools
Lisa Milan is a veteran science educator with over 32 years of experience teaching physics and physical science. She currently serves as the K–12 Science Curriculum Coordinator for Pittsburgh Public Schools, where she supports teachers with the district’s efforts to implement phenomena-driven, multidimensional teaching and learning aligned with the Pennsylvania STEELS standards. Lisa is passionate about supporting teachers through meaningful professional learning and collaborative curriculum development that brings science to life in the classroom.