Engaging in the discovery, exploration and understanding of STEMPlan of Work

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Knox County CES

Title:
Engaging in the discovery, exploration and understanding of STEM
MAP:
Science, Engineering and Technology
Agents Involved:
Renata Farmer
MAJOR PROGRAM 1:
Leadership
MAJOR PROGRAM 2:
Science, Engineering, and Technology
Situation:

Technology is an ever growing field. It affects nearly every part of our lives. Kentucky ranks 47th in the nation for the number of scientists in the work force, according to the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation.  According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, 2017 STEM Jobs Update, Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workers help drive our nation’s innovation and competitiveness by generating new ideas and new companies. For example, workers who study or are employed in these fields are more likely to apply for, receive, and commercialize patents. STEM knowledge also has other benefits; while often very specialized, it can be transferred to a wide variety of careers, particularly management occupations, while increased technology in the workplace means that, to handle non-repetitive tasks, workers need the critical thinking and technical skills that come with STEM training.   Keeping these opportunities in mind, Knox County 4-H Program strives to increase STEM literacy among youth and spark an added interest in the topic.Youth will learn scientific research techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that positively address science, engineering and technology issues in Kentucky and globally. At the request of the 4-H Council and local Science teachers, the 4-H agent will continue to form science clubs across our local school systems.

Long-Term Outcomes:

*Youth will gain a knowledge of SET to help them function in today's society.

*Youth will choose a career path in science, engineering or technology subject matter.

*Youth will utilize the scientific method in decision-making.

Intermediate Outcomes:


*Youth will demonstrate and share new abilities in science, engineering and technology with others.

*Youth will practice scientific methods learned in 4-H SET programs.

*Teens will mentor younger 4-H’ers in science, engineering and technology programs

Initial Outcomes:

*Youth will increase interest and engagement in 4-H science, engineering and technology.

*Youth learn new skills in 4-H science, engineering and technology programs.

*Youth will be introduced to careers in science, engineering, and technology.

*Teens participate in science, engineering and technology 4-H programs to acquire new skills.

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Youth will increase interest and engagement in 4-H science, engineering and technology.

Indicator: Number of youth who use knowledge and skills from 4-H science, engineering and technology in daily life.

Method: pre-post surveys, hands on learning, observation

Timeline: monthly


Intermediate Outcome: Youth will use STEM skills learned in 4-H in other programs

Indicator: Number of youth who follow scientific methods when making decisions.

Method: Pre-post tests, hands on learning and observation, teacher testimonial

Timeline: ongoing


Long-term Outcome: Youth will show mentor others in the areas of STEM, began working towards a career in STEM or plan and  implement a project in the area of STEM

Indicator: Youth will choose a career path in science, engineering or technology subject matter.

Method: Enrollment in a SET field, testimonial, surveys

Timeline: ongoing

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: NYSD Experiment

Content or Curriculum: SET Core

Inputs: Agent, teachers, curriculum

Date: Fall 2024


Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Science Clubs

Content or Curriculum: SET Core Curriculum

Inputs: agent, teachers, youth

Date: Throughout year



Audience: Cloverbuds Science days

Project or Activity: Cloverbuds

Content or Curriculum: Cloverbud/ PLT and SET Core Curriculum

Inputs: guests, agent, teachers youth

Date: Throughout year/ Summer 2025







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