Science Educator Michigan State University Extension Midland, Michigan, United States
Program Abstract: Under-represented students often “opt out” of STEM career paths as early as upper elementary, a problem that seriously weakens the impact of college level transformative interventions. MSU Extension and MSU Innovation Center have collaborated to develop a STEM education and outreach hub at St. Andrews to serve as a central point of contact for teachers, youth, parents, community members, industry experts and university researchers to collaborate in providing experiential learning opportunities that are designed to increase understanding of STEM and provide mentorship and academic preparation for youth interested in entering the STEM profession. The value of deliberate and intentional out-of-school programs that engage youth from 5 to 18 in STEM-focused experiential developmentally appropriate activities will be discussed. Preliminary assessment plans to monitor program impact will be discussed.
