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Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) workshop increases middle schoolers interest in science

"Being able to work with everything instead of just talking about it was great!" enthused one young participant at the UW-Rock County Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) workshop for middle school students.

High interest from students and parents

The workshop, which was designed to pique sixth through eighth graders' interest in science, engineering, technology and math, attracted 100 students, many of whom were accompanied by their parents. Due to the high interest in the workshop, which was held last September on the UW-Rock County campus, another is scheduled for Sept. 27.

Professors and science majors teach

At the one-day event, UW-Rock County professors taught sessions on math, biology, chemistry, engineering, physics and geology. UW-Rock County students majoring in science and professors teamed up to lead make-and-take activities related to science, technology, engineering and math.

Parents learn too

Parent sessions focused on the growing need for scientists, well-paying careers in science, and how parents can encourage their children's interests in science, math and technology. To further support the students' learning, Valerie King-Bailey, an engineer who started her own Chicago consulting firm, gave a keynote address to parents and students, on "The Seven Habits of Highly Successful Kids."

"Fantastic experience"

"This event was a fantastic experience for all involved. It was wonderful to see middle school students interacting with college professors and students. Everyone's enthusiasm in planning and delivering this event was incredible," says Stacy L. Randall, director of continuing education, UW-Rock County.

Community funders

STEM is funded in part by a Diversity Program Development Initiative grant from the UW-Extension Division of Continuing Education, Outreach and E-Learning; Alliant Energy; Janesville Rotary Foundation; Wisconsin Girls Collaborative Project; Janesville Morning Rotary Foundation, Inc.; and Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin.

STEM workshop impacts

Students completed surveys before and after the STEM workshop. Results indicated that:

• 55% of the students had never taken an in-depth class in science, technology, engineering or math outside of their normal school-day classes.
• Prior to the event 40% of the students did not have an interest in STEM topics. After the event, the percentage increased to 61%.
• In the pre-conference survey only 45% of the students had an interest in pursuing a science, technology, engineering and math field. After the conference, the percentage increased to 82%.
• After the program 52% indicated that they would take classes in science, technology, engineering and math in high school.

For more information:

Stacy L. Randall
Continuing Education Director
UW-Rock County
(608) 758-6541
stacy.randall@uwc.edu

By Lisa Nielsen Agnew, marketing specialist, Division of Continuing Education, Outreach and E-Learning