Tips To Enhance Teen Interest In Science And Math

Monday, March 1, 2010

ar, (NAPSA)—Manyexperts assert that the strength of the U.S. economy lies in fostering a culture of innovation and educating America’s youth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The good news, according to a recent survey of teens by the Lemelson-MIT Program, is that 12-17-year-olds are enthusiastic about these subjects, with 77 percent interested in pursuing a STEM career. However, ensuring that teens hang on to that enthusiasm as they transition into college or the workforce may require encouragement along the way. Consider the following tips to foster teens’ interest in the sciences: 1. Get outside the classroom For a transformative learning experience, provide teens the opportunity to build things and conduct experiments outside the classroom. Supplementing classroom learning with real-world experiences provides a valuable view into the role of science and math in everyday life. Twothirds of students said they would enjoy learning about science more if they could take field trips to places where they can learn. Research and plan visits to local companies, museums or planetariums to help students foster a deeper understanding of the sciences. 2. Take a hands-on approach Two-thirds of teens prefer hands-on individual and group projects when it comes to classroom-based education methods. In the classroom and at home, keep things fun and interactive. Integrating animations, simulations, building-design skills and other lab tools into assignments are ae Hands-on experience is a great way to get students to appreciate science, technology, engineering and mathematics. ways to tap into teens’ interest in hands-on learning. 3. Find strong mentors Teachers and parents alike should keep in mind that role models have a tremendous impact on increasing teens’ interest in sci- ence, math and technology. Strong mentorscan also help teens better understand the impact that STEM professionals have on society. Rememberthat even access to family members or family-friends who work in these fields can be a driving factor for teens’ interest. There are a variety of channels beyond school and home that can connect teens’ interest in STEM with access to hands-on, outside- the-classroom opportunities. For example, educational programs like the Lemelson-MIT Inven- Team initiative let teams of high school students, teachers and mentors apply for a grant of up to $10,000 to invent technological solutions to real-world problemsof their own choosing. To learn more about LemelsonMIT InvenTeamsor to access the 2010-2011 application, visit http://web.mit.edu/invent or call (617) 253-3352.

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