iCeGS Seminar: Full STEAM Ahead

Abstract

Presenter: Sarah Margree

At a time when there is international concern over the number of students studying and entering STEM education, and an anticipated shortfall of qualified persons in these professions, a better understanding of what influences these decisions will play a key role in encouraging more people to enter this arena. 

Sarah's research uses semi-structured interviews with current and retired STEM professionals in the UK and North America to discover what influenced their decision to undertake education and careers within STEM. 

Analysis of this data is then used to determine what role science fiction played in their decision, what types and forms of science fiction, and how we can use this to inspire future generations to have more interest in, and desire to study, STEM subjects. This study uses practice by research to determine what is inspirational, and through an iterative process with the aforementioned STEM professionals, a short story collection will be crafted to inspire a new generation.

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About Sarah Margree 

Sarah is currently in her second year of her PhD programme in creative writing. She holds an MA in Creative Writing, a Postgraduate Certificate in Space Science, and a BSc (Hons) in Open Studies, with a focus on physics, astronomy, and planetary science, all obtained from the Open University. A lifelong science fiction fan, Sarah has always been intrigued by humanity's future in space. She was once an active member of an astronomy club and participated in outreach activities, which led to her becoming a STEM Ambassador. These experiences have significantly shaped her research question.