Using The Walking Dead to teach STEM to girls, trans and non-binary youth
The Walking Dead is now being used to encourage STEM learning (and its fascinating!)
Nothing teaches you better than a challenge, as you figure out how to adjust and overcome that challenge... but what about a zombie apocalypse?
The Walking Dead TV series is being used as an avenue to highlight the power of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) knowledge - especially for young women. AMC networks is partnering with the non-profit organization Ad Council on a series of public service announcements (PSAs) that will use the show to explain how to MacGuyver (bad pun) your way into surviving a zombie apocalypse - or just everyday life.
Don't believe us? Take a look:
As part of this project, crew from The Walking Dead itself - from director Aisha Tyler to costume designer Vera Chow and art director Jasmine Garnet- are being intervieed by teenager Gitanjali Rao, a scientist/inventor/activist (we're already a fan!).
"We are thrilled to partner with the Ad Council to inspire young girls in STEM through the unexpected backdrop of ‘The Walking Dead," says AMC Networks Content Room vice president Kim Granito. "Over the last 11 years, this universe has been created by an array of insanely talented women that utilize STEM every day in their roles. This campaign will broaden perceptions of STEM beyond the stereotypes of lab coats and beakers, and hopefully inspire the next generation of talented women in STEM. Aisha Tyler, Vera Chow and Jasmine Garnet were a dream to work with and their shared enthusiasm for this mission is inspiring."
Wait, wait... we have another one of these we want to show you:
This is part of a concerted effort to encourage more young women, trans youths, and nonbinary youths into STEM education. Currently, groups such as those typically lose interest in STEM in middle school, leading to the STEM workforce being predominantly men.
These unique The Walking Dead STEM public service announcements debuted June 8 on TikTok and Instagram, and will also be shared on AMC's channels and digital platforms, as well as The Walking Dead's social media channels.
If you've made it this far, you're a fan of zombies - so let us help get you into The Walking Dead with our guide to how to watch The Walking Dead.
