Outreach partnerships to encourage or increase stem literacy in the classroom

摘要

It is noted that active learning can have an impact on the lives of students by engaging in hands-on STEM education (ITEEA, 2009). There are multiple influences that can affect the learning experience; they include motivation, hands-on learning, creativity, interest, and past experiences. Through the utilization of partnerships, educators have a unique opportunity to create innovative teaching approaches by exposure to STEM concepts through educational experiments and activities provided through outreach initiatives. It is the responsibility of the education system, community, and parents to have a vested interest in adequately preparing a future STEM-literate workforce. Educators and administrators are challenged to seek partnerships with local STEM clubs/organizations, scientists, national research laboratories, and industry to help strengthen founda-tional STEM concepts taught in the classroom. Through active partnering with local school systems, STEM organizations/clubs, scientists, and the workforce, STEM literacy and interest can be achieved through active hands-on learning practices. Initiatives like these may assist in addressing one of the nation's top priorities of securing and preparing a highly technological workplace in the 21st century.