Black Scientists and Inventors: Pioneers of Innovation (Taster)
This Black History Month taster course explores the remarkable achievements of Black scientists and inventors across centuries and disciplines. From ancient scholars to modern-day innovators, discover the stories of brilliant minds whose contributions have transformed medicine, technology, engineering, and countless other fields. Through engaging video presentations, interactive content, and assessments, learners will gain appreciation for the diversity and depth of Black excellence in STEM and beyond.
Learning Objectives
Identify key Black scientists and inventors from ancient times to the present Understand the historical context and challenges faced by Black innovators Recognize contributions of Black scientists across multiple STEM disciplines Appreciate the global reach of Black scientific achievement Analyze the impact of these innovations on modern society Develop awareness of ongoing contributions by contemporary Black scientists
Prerequisites
Interest in history and science No prior knowledge required
Course Content
Week 1: Foundations - Ancient and Early Scholars
Introduction to Black Scientific Heritage
Ancient African Mathematics and Engineering
Spotlight: Imhotep - The first named scientist
Early Modern Scholars: Benjamin Banneker
Week 1 Quiz: Ancient to Early Modern Pioneers
Week 2: Innovation Under Adversity - 19th Century Pioneers
The Age of Black Innovation
Medical Pioneers: Dr. James McCune Smith
Spotlight: Lewis Latimer - The Light Bulb Innovator
Agricultural Innovation: George Washington Carver
Week 2 Interactive: Match the Inventor to Their Innovation
Week 2 Quiz: 19th Century Pioneers
Week 3: Breaking Barriers - 20th Century Breakthroughs
The Civil Rights Era and Scientific Progress
Dr. Charles Drew: Father of Blood Banking
Spotlight: Katherine Johnson - NASA Mathematician
Physics and Chemistry: Breaking Academic Barriers
Week 3 Interactive: Timeline of 20th Century Achievements
Week 3 Quiz: 20th Century Pioneers
Week 4: Modern Excellence - Contemporary Scientists and Future Directions
21st Century Black Scientific Excellence
Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green: Revolutionary Cancer Treatment
Spotlight: Dr. Mark Dean - Computing Revolution
Diverse Fields, Unified Excellence
Interactive Case Study: Choose Your Path in Science
The Future of Black Excellence in Science
Final Assessment: Black Scientists and Inventors Through the Ages - Final Comprehensive Assessment
Course Reflection and Next Steps
More Guidence
Final Notes - Black Scientists and Inventors
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This course includes:
- 4 interactive quizzes
- 26 comprehensive lessons
- Multiple lesson formats (videos, readings, activities)
- Progress tracking and certificates
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