Through Many Lenses: Diverse Perspectives on Education and Discovery

This STEAM Lecture series is hosted by the UBC Astronomy Club. 

Abstract:

Dr. Poh Tan and Daniel Asel, RGD, make learning science fun for kids. Coming from opposite sides of the world, their unique perspectives - merged with Indigenous ways of knowing - seek to the make science education more engaging and accessible for all learners. In this talk, they explore the challenges of teaching kids about the universe, the role of art in making complex concepts approachable, and disrupting the barriers to inclusive education. Through their experiences, attendees will discover innovative ways to inspire curiosity, create meaning impact, and make learning both fun and accessible for every child.

Bios:

Dr. Poh Tan is an award-winning scientist, educator, entrepreneur, and mother. She earned her first PhD in Experimental Medicine from UBC in 2008, focusing on stem cell biology. Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to education and interdisciplinary research, Dr. Tan pursued a second PhD in Education at Simon Fraser University, successfully defending her thesis in February, 2024. 

As the founder and CEO of STEMedge Academy Inc., Dr. Tan has advised prominent organizations, including BC Hydro's Power Smart for Schools program, on education outreach initiatives. Dr. Tan is a two-time TEDx speaker and her commitment to de-centering dominant ways of teaching science is demonstrated by her long-term volunteer work at Vancouver's Science World, a research associate at the Institute for Environmental Learning, research fellow at Vancouver Botanical Garden Association, and faculty at Emily Carr University of Art and Design. 

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Dr. Tan was honoured with the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award from SFU, the Dean's medal for her thesis work, the Mantella Corporation BIPOC Entrepreneur Award and the Kris Magnusson Emerging Leaders Award that recognizes her leadership and a committment to transformative education.

Daniel Asel is a creative director, educational designer, and advocate for accessible learning. With over 16 years of experience in creative leadership, Daniel's work blends art, science, and storytelling to create engaging learning experiences for young audiences. As a proud member of Canada's Association of Registered Graphic Designers - a government-legislated design association founded on principles of accessible design - he brings a values-driven approach to every project. His work designing award-winning educational experiences for kids has been recognized by Parent Tested Parent Approved (R) and he is also a published academic author in the field of education reform for neurodivergent students.

As a creative director, Daniel has led major projects for purpose-led organizations including BC Hydro's Power Smart for Schools program, BC Transit's sustainability outreach strategy and the University of Toronto's neuroscience outreach program. He also spearheaded the Boston Red Sox STEAM education program as part of their educational outreach and contributed to the BOOK IT literacy program in the US, which promotes reading resources to over 14 million young readers annually. Daniel specializes in STEAM curriculum content design, interactive media, and brand strategy-developing thoughtful, inclusive and playful education content for schools, families, and global organizations. 

As a neurodivergent individual himself, Daniel's mission is to make education truly accessible for all learners. His work centers on creating emotionally resonant experiences that spark curiosity, invite discovery, and foster a lifelong love of learning. He regularly consults on accessibility and inclusive design in education, with a focus on removing barriers and making learning joyful and meaningful for every student.