Extension
It Starts With Us
Engaging in discovery, exploration , and understanding in science, engineering and technology
Science, Engineering, and Technology
Kelly Woods
Science, Engineering, and Technology
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 innovative 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. In the United States, there were nearly 8.6 million STEM jobs in 2015, an increase of 10.5% from 2009 while non-STEM occupations grew only 5.2% in that same period. (Fayer, 2017) and STEM occupations are projected to grow by 8.9 percent from 2014 to 2024, compared to 6.4 percent growth for non-STEM occupations (Noonan, 2017). Data gathered in the 2019 Oldham County Assessment shows concerns from county residents regarding youth and adults being career ready, having qualified employees for existing or future jobs and the need for citizens who will tackle community needs. In Extension programs, youth will learn scientific research techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that positively address science, engineering, and technology issues in Kentucky and globally. SET programs will prepare youth for future careers.
Youth will utilize the scientific method to solve problems in their daily life.
Youth will demonstrate and share new abilities in science, engineering, and technology with others.
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.
Initial Outcome: 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.
Indicator: Number of youth who indicated they are interested in learning more about science, engineering, or technology projects? (KOSA)
Method: Participant Survey
Timeline: After Session Completion
Intermediate Outcome: Youth will demonstrate and share new abilities in science, engineering and technology with others.Indicator: Number of youth who participated in project, activity, or event for science, engineering, and technology projects? (PRACTICE);
Method: 4-H Online Enrollment; Testing
Timeline: May 2025
Long-term Outcome: Youth will utilize the scientific method to solve problems in their daily life.
Indicator: Number of youth who indicated “yes or usually” to the Common Measures Experience Survey Question #6 “Is 4-H A place where you get to figure out things for yourself?” Number of youth who indicated “yes or usually” to the Common Measures Experience Survey Question #13 “Is 4-H a place where you have a chance to be a leader?”Method: 4-H Common Experience Survey
Timeline: May 2025
Audience: 4th Grade 4-H members
Project or Activity: Engineering Design
Content or Curriculum: National 4-H Science Curriculum,
Inputs: 4-H Staff, Oldham County Schools, District Board funding
Date: 2024-2025 School Year
Audience: 5th Grade 4-H Members
Project or Activity: Engineering Design
Content or Curriculum: Junk Drawer Robotics
Inputs: 4-H Staff, OC Schools, District Board funding
Date: 2024-2025 School Year
Audience: 4th Grade 4-H Members
Project or Activity: Electrical Circuits
Content or Curriculum: Investigating Electricity
Inputs: 4-H Staff, OC Schools, District Board funding, Electrical Kits
Date: 2024-2025 School Year
Audience: 5th Grade 4-H Members
Project or Activity: DNA Extraction
Content or Curriculum: Science Sleuths
Inputs: 4-H Staff, OC Schools, District Board Funding
Date: 2024-2025 School Year
