Welcome!

On behalf of the entire Actua team, I am so pleased to welcome you to the Actua network!

In this module, you will learn more about Actua and how the work you do is impacting youth locally, regionally, and nationally. This training will also introduce you to how your experience as an instructor is unique and valuable to your personal and professional development. 

One thing is clear - You are in for the experience of a lifetime. When I was an Actua instructor at our network member in New Brunswick, Worlds UNBound (University of New Brunswick), it changed my life and career path. It was through my experience as an instructor that I solidified my passion for education, for ensuring that all youth have the opportunity to achieve their potential in STEM, and for running a program (which many of you might do in the future!). Above all else, I loved going to work everyday knowing I was positively impacting the lives of kids - a reason I continue to love my job today!

As a network, we are a powerful voice for youth. As you engage youth this summer, we want to hear from you! Connect with us on social media: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. I also have a personal Twitter account and a blog where I post information about Actua’s national activities, exciting STEM education news and highlights of local success stories.

I wish you all the best in your coming program, workshop, and camp delivery.  I look forward to hearing about the successes you all will bring to the youth we impact across the country. 

Jennifer Flanagan

President & Co-Founder

Actua

The outline for the Actua 101 - For Instructors course is as follows: 

1. Introduction - 5 minutes
2. About Actua - 10 minutes
3. Network Members - 10 minutes
4. Impact - 15 minutes 
5. National Programs - 10 minutes
6. Instructors - 10 minutes
7. Reflection and Next Steps - 5 minutes

The learning goals for this module include being able to:

• Understand and be able to describe Actua’s national vision and mission.
• Think about network member institution’s priorities and how they align with Actua’s objectives.
• Understand how our programs have a positive impact on youth, including on youth from target underserved populations.
• Understand the Instructor’s critical role as leaders, innovators, and role models in STEM education.
• Understand how the skills gained through the Instructor experience is valuable preparation for your future of work.