A Longitudinal Study: Investigating the Impact of an Outreach Program on Students’ Future Course Selection and STEM Career Choices

The goal of this research project is to explore the effectiveness of outreach programs in terms of their potential to affect science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) interest and achievement in middle school and beyond through STEM engagement. Through inquiry-based
half-day workshops, guided by the knowledge of scientists and engineers, this multi-partnership STEM project will employ five interns who will be responsible for data collection, including administering surveys; workshop observations; interviewing participants; data organization; data analysis and amalgamation; report writing; and attending team meetings. Overall, interns will be provided with unique opportunities for acquiring research skills such as developing a research plan, conducting literature reviews, data collection and analysis; collaborating on publications; and developing increased research capacity. The project will provide insights into the potential of outreach programs to support STEM educational initiatives, provide effective strategies for engaging students in STEM education and promote STEM awareness and career pathways.

Faculty Supervisor:

Isha DeCoito

Student:

Partner:

Scientists in School

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Education

University:

Western University

Program: