TEACHING YOUTH THE IMPORTANCE OF S.T.E.M: SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS
Extension Education
Brad McGinley
County Extension Agent - Staff Chair
University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture
Sheridan
Abstract
\r\n Many students struggle in the areas of science and mathematics due to a lack of interest. This lack of interest is having an effect on the number of workers qualified for jobs in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.). At the same time, the United States Department of Commerce projects that occupations in the areas of S.T.E.M. will grow by 17 percent from 2008 to 2018; whereas non-S.T.E.M. areas are projected to grow by only 9.8 percent. To meet the workforce needs of these expanding fields, it is important to make efforts to increase student interest in the areas of S.T.E.M. Techno Teen Camp was developed to introduce youth to engineering and technology in a fun and exciting environment, and hopefully spark the student’s interest to explore careers in the areas of S.T.E.M. Students and faculty from the local high school Environment and Spatial Technology (EAST) lab helped plan and facilitate the camp. The camp was conducted as a three session day camp, with each year focusing on a different area of technology. Some examples include: global positioning systems (GPS), video editing, DNA analysis, robotics and computer programming, and rocketry. Participant’s knowledge of activities related to “science and technology” and “mathematics and engineering” increased by 135 and 171 percent, respectively. Using “hand’s on” activities, in a day camp setting, provided an environment to increase both student interest and knowledge of S.T.E.M.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: B.C. McGinley
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McGinley, B. County Extension Agent-Agriculture, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, Arkansas, 71957