About

Exploring how emerging technologies and educational ecosystems shape participation, pathways and persistence in STEM.

This site documents my evolving research agenda as an engineer, educator and researcher interested in STEM pathways, participation, persistence and educational ecosystems. I use this space to explore literature, reflect on practice, and develop research ideas.

Professional background

Michelle Magalona is an electronics engineer, educator and STEM ecosystem builder working at the intersection of education, industry, research and future workforce development. She leads STEM programs and partnerships at Brimbank Tech School, Victoria University, connecting schools, universities, industry and community partners to create meaningful STEM learning experiences and pathways for young people.

She recently completed a Master of Education focused on STEM retention, using qualitative longitudinal research to examine how female Australian STEM professionals sustained participation over time. Her emerging research interests include emerging technologies STEM ecosystems, belonging as practice, STEM persistence, pathway development, educational equity and evaluation.

Why this work matters

STEM participation is often discussed through aspiration, engagement and recruitment. My research interest begins with a different question: what helps people stay?

I am interested in how educational ecosystems can help learners build the capabilities, relationships, identities and opportunities needed to sustain participation in STEM over time.