CURRENT RESEARCH

Increasing confidence, curiosity, and persistence: strengthening STEM identities in underrepresented

My research examines how culturally responsive pedagogy and a sense of belonging influence confidence, engagement, and persistence in STEM-related activities, specifically in underrepresented groups. I aim to explore the underlying mechanism or relationship between authentic learning experiences, community engagement and the formation of positive STEM identities in underrepresented groups. My current work focuses on three specific areas of intervention: a flipped classroom model, teaching for diversity and inclusion, and the use of makerspaces and makerspace projects as alternative pathways to science. 

Sample Mode: Intro to Sound Design, Beat-making, and Creative Music Technologies DeCal - A Berkeley Changemaker® Course 

Sample Mode is a semester-long STEM enrichment course taught at UC Berkeley and June Jordan School for Equity. This course was designed to be apart of a larger initiative around around creating more diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility  in STEM learning. 

Project Description and Overview

This 12-week course is offered in collaboration with Berkeley Changemaker®  and Jacobs Institute for Design Innovation. Emphasizing the Berkeley Changemaker pillars of critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, students will design, create, and perform original music using electronic instruments, music production software, and midi-controllers. We will also examine the history of sampling, its role in hip-hop, and its legacy in music production. Students will connect with and learn from industry professionals, each week. Class sessions will be complemented by community beat-making showcases and performances opportunities that enable students to practice course content in front of an audience and receive feedback. Midway through the semester students will even have an opportunity to build their very own midi-controller in a makerspace environment.

Computer Music Programming, Scientific Inquiry Practice, and Problem-Solving

The Sample Mode course focuses on developing specific skills related to computer music programming, building creative music technologies and collaboration. Students learn how to pose questions and hypotheses, explore principles for creating products, understand software programming logic, and collaborate with others. In the process of collaborating with others, students also learn how to transfer and expand their knowledge to different situations.