11 Aug How Design Squad Latinx is Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Fluent partnered with GBH to evaluate the impact of Design Squad Latinx (DSL), a hands-on engineering program that helps young Latinx learners see themselves as designers, problem-solvers, and future engineers. Our findings show just how powerful culturally relevant STEM education can be.
The Challenge:
GBH created Design Squad Latinx (DSL) to inspire 3rd–6th grade Latinx youth to explore engineering through hands-on, culturally relevant activities. To understand the program’s impact, GBH partnered with Fluent to evaluate whether DSL was effectively engaging students and supporting educators.
The Solution:
Fluent designed and implemented a comprehensive mixed-methods evaluation to understand how DSL was working on the ground. Our research team combined pre- and post-program surveys, focus groups with youth participants, interviews with program leaders, implementation logs, and club observations. We also collaborated with the DSL team during curriculum development. The result was a robust picture of how DSL was shaping experiences for both students and educators.
The Result:
Our research found that DSL inspires Latinx youth, fostering curiosity and confidence in STEM, and strongly prepares educators to guide students through engineering challenges. Encouraging hands-on exploration, DSL deeply engages students in collaborative and creative activities where they find joy in problem-solving and discovery. Our study also showed that by reinforcing a sense of pride and relevance in STEM education DSL highlights the importance of linking engineering concepts with students’ cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, we found that DSL is successful in transforming how Latinx youth perceive engineering, suggesting that when learning reflects their experiences, they thrive. As one participant shared: “I don’t want to be a YouTuber anymore—I want to be an engineer.”