STEAM Learning Institute
Deepening educational impact through
play-based learning
The STEAM Learning Institute
An exciting reimagination of Thinkery’s 40 years as a family learning hub.
The STEAM Learning Institute is Thinkery’s body of work dedicated to inclusive research, development, and training on what play-based, child-centered STEAM learning is, how it happens, and how we evaluate its impact. We co-create and share out the work alongside educators, researchers, industry partners, and families across Central Texas.
The work that stems from the STEAM Learning Institute is rooted in equitable access and centering learning communities we partner with across the education ecosystem. Thinkery recognizes the unique values and strengths of all students and the rich lived experiences and expertise driving educators in the field. When we meet students where they are and truly create practices and curricula that are child-led, and culturally responsive we can nurture a love of learning in ALL children.
The STEAM Learning Institute in Action
Thinkery Connect
Thinkery Connect is a museum-university-community research partnership between Thinkery and The Center for Applied Cognitive Science at The University of Texas at Austin Department of Psychology. The objective of this partnership is to translate best practices from learning sciences into museum operations.
Professional Development
Educators experience hands-on professional development workshops at Thinkery, where they collaborate with museum staff, subject matter experts, and each other. Thinkery then provides the opportunity for 6–8 weeks of on-campus collaboration to support educators as they implement STEAM-based activities and lessons with their students.
Advocating for Early Childhood Education
A part of our work in leading the future of play-based learning is to advocate for stronger policies that help ensure that ALL children have the opportunity to cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
Dream in STEAM
A first-of-its-kind event for Thinkery – Dream in STEAM convened innovative educators, philanthropic corporations, and STEM professionals to explore how we can work together to prepare young learners for a future powered by STEAM.
The STEAM Learning Institute is supported by:
Get involved
Interested in partnering or learning more? Please contact us at programs@thinkeryaustin.org.