GEM | Our ISLeTs

Our ISLeTs

GEM is working to demonstrate the potential for effective intergenerational, informal learning and development of geo-literacy through the Informal STEM Learning Team (ISLeT) model.

Each of the 30 ISLeT that GEM has brought together over its six years falls under one of six informal learning modules that blend local/Indigenous approaches, Western STEM knowledge systems, and active learning to support the growth of geo-literacy among our ISLeT members and the co-creation of products and events that support geo-literacy within the wider community.

Island series ISLeTs convened in community settings.

Island Observer: Observing and documenting phenomena in the land, ocean, and atmosphere through traditional worldview and STEM
Island Explorer: Documenting place through space and time in our stories and traditional practices
Island Innovator: Creating physical and digital models of places

Geoscience series ISLeTs convened in extracurricular learning and government settings.

Geoscience in Conservation: Mapping protected areas and learning about protected areas and traditional practices for environmental protection
Geoscience in Education: Using place as a STEM workshop through settings like student clubs
Geoscience in Planning: Using remote sensing and field surveys to create infrastructure maps

Through co-creation of maps, posters, signs, songs, and community events, ISLeT members explored — and helped their communities to explore — our GEM guiding question: How do we “read” the skies, the land, and the waters— and how do we learn from those “texts” in order to make decisions that positively affect ourselves and our communities?

Kommol tata, Kulo malulap, Kalahngan, Kinisou chapur, Kammagar, & Mesulang to the community organizations that worked within our ISLeTs, alongside elders and youth, to bring GEM to life.

Our Partners

Chuuk State Government

Chuuk State Department of Education:

Chuuk Women’s Council

Local governments and schools on Lekinioch, Much, Namoluk, Nema, Oneop, Piisemwar, Satowan, Houk, Makur, Nomwin, Onou, Onoun, Piherah, Pollap, Tamatam, and Unanu

Yap State Government

Yap State Department of Resources & Development, Division of Agriculture & Forestry

OurYAP: Our Youth Are Promising

Kids of Ruu Community

Waa’gey

Government of the Marshall Islands

Marshall Islands Public School System

Marshall Islands High School

Northern Islands High School

Ebeye Public Middle School

College of the Marshall Islands

IOM