Toward a Reparative Humanism in STEM Higher Education

In this session, we will examine the concept of Reparative Humanism and what it means to reimagine STEM education through that lens. A STEM that is grounded in humanistic principles will cultivate learning environments that not only prepare students to tackle global challenges but also support their growth and wellbeing. Such an approach is essential for sustaining and advancing the educational and democratic purposes of higher education in these challenging times.

To underscore the urgency and relevance of this shift, we will share recent data from undergraduate STEM students that illuminate their perceptions of these existing educational frameworks and their ideas on how the current ethos of STEM can be expanded to better reflect diverse epistemologies and lived realities. In doing so, we hope to highlight the critical role of student voices in reshaping STEM education to be more inclusive and responsive to both individual and collective needs. Integrating student insights into our discussion, we aim to provide a richer, more grounded understanding of how STEM education can evolve to meet the demands of our times and contribute more effectively to the public good.