What if students looked up to the world's greatest scientists and engineers just like they do our star athletes? Shelly Esque of Intel thinks that this shift in mindset would go a long way toward improving STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and increasing the numbers of U.S. scientists and engineers.
That's not to say that all students should be transformed into "Science Guys," but if math and science are presented in more fun and relevant ways in the early stages, there's a good chance that students would gravitate towards those fields. That's why Intel has created programs such as the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network. The after-school program utilizes students' interests in music, art, graphics and even video games to help them develop a love for math and science. Knowledge Universe created a hands-on camp called Champions Science Adventures, which, according to Strategic Initiatives Senior Vice President Nina Rees, has helped increase student test scores by 12 percent. This year's program will allow students to build a robot, become mini-astronauts, solve an Egyptian mystery and leap into a wild animal adventure.
Work is also being done at the federal level to improve math and science education. "The world today is defined by science and technology," said Michael Lach, special assistant for science, technology, engineering and mathematics Education at the U.S. Department of Education. "We have two main objectives in improving math and science: to prepare the next generation of scientists and engineers and to improve the overall understanding of science and math. With the president's commitment and federal resources, we are at a remarkable time now that we can do it."
President Obama has launched the "Educate to Innovate" campaign to increase STEM literacy so that all students can learn deeply and think critically in science, math, engineering, and technology. He hopes to move American students from the middle of the pack to top in the next decade and expand STEM education and career opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women and girls. National Lab Day was launched last year, which joins students and educators with volunteers, university students, scientists, engineers and others to bring real-world science experiences into the classroom. This year's National Lab Day will be celebrated on May 12.
"It's important for everyone to become part of the solution," Lach said.
Global Conference 2013
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, philanthropist Bill Gates and Strive Masiyiwa of Econet Wireless discuss advancing prosperity in Africa.
