Why is it important to promote STEM in girls?

In assessing nationwide Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education initiatives, current research shows that girls are more likely to choose courses and careers in science and math if their interest in these fields is sparked and cultivated throughout the school years. Female students from underrepresented populations have a tendency to be passive learners which is attributed to deficit instructional models that infer they will never be able to master math and science content The problem is compounded with the current small percentage of highly qualified middle school teachers in math education. Faced with these obstacles over the course of their early education, students become dis-empowered and lose confidence in their ability to excel in math and science. 

What to expect
Last year we used a multi-tiered approach, the program staff included DePaul University College of Education professors, one elementary school teacher, YPP’s national coordinator, three DePaul college students (education majors) and five high school students. The 6th grade participants attended either the morning or afternoon session three days a week. On the other days, the professors and college students provided training for the high school students who facilitated hands-on STEM activities. There was a daily debrief at the end of each day.   In these sessions, program staff and mentors assessed what was most effective, least effective, and the mentors planned for the next session.

Conversation: A Three-Minute Video on Common Core State Standards from CGCS Video Maker on Vimeo.

This three-minute video explains how the Common Core State Standards will help students achieve at high levels and help them learn what they need to know to get to graduation and beyond.
This three-minute video explains the Next Generation Science Standards (NGGS). The NGSS explains the importance of these standards and how to prepare students to be ready for careers and college.