By Megan Smith, STEM Coordinator of San Joaquin County Office of Education, CASE President-Elect

Do you remember the last “aha” moment one of your students had in the classroom and the look of pure joy on their face? 

You might not recall exactly what the student discovered, however, the feeling of excitement was most likely inspiring for you that day, too. The impact that moment had on the student went even further. Not only were powerful chemicals, such as dopamine and serotonin, released during that moment to create a whole-body, feel-good response, but the STEM identity and empowerment for that student grew as well.

Many transformational change frameworks (Kotter, Bridges, ADKAR, Appreciative Inquiry, etc.) specifically mention the importance of identifying and celebrating small wins. Why? Because small wins can generate and sustain greater motivation and impact over time.

Transforming student identities and empowering them to be critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and conscientious citizens takes time. However, celebrating the small wins,those glorious “aha” moments, can build momentum towards that visionary goal.

So next time, make sure you take a moment to pause and celebrate that joy with your student as well!
 

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