Short Description: Afterschool STEM programs can leverage many assets of rural communities — close-knit communities, flexible school systems, and pride in sense of place. Learn: 1) to create programs that nurture STEM interests and skills while increasing STEM achievement; 2) keys to rural STEM talent development; and 3) examples of thriving place-based and student-centered informal rural STEM programs for 5th-8th grade students.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will:
Learn how to create informal STEM programs that provide opportunities that nurture children’s STEM interests and skills while increasing STEM achievement
Discuss research-backed keys to rural STEM talent development
Gain examples of how place-based and student-centered informal rural STEM programs thrive