Engaging in discovery in SETPlan of Work

Back to the Program

Montgomery County CES

Title:
Engaging in discovery in SET
MAP:
Engaging in discovery, exploration, and understanding in science, engineering, and technology
Agents Involved:
Comer
MAJOR PROGRAM 1:
Science, Engineering, and Technology
MAJOR PROGRAM 2:
Staff Development
Situation:

In a world that’s becoming increasingly complex, success is driven not only by what you know, but by what you can do with what you know, it’s more important for young people to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to solve tough problems, gather and evaluate evidence, and make sense of information. These are the types of skills that students learn by studying science, technology, and engineering. Yet few students pursue expertise in SET fields. (U.S. Department of Education)  

Although not the largest industry in Kentucky, STEM careers do have a large economic impact.

Situation:  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.  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).  Keeping these opportunities in mind, the 4-H Youth Development Program strives to increase STEM literacy among youth in Kentucky to help fill the need for a diverse pool of STEM literate individuals to meet expanding job opportunities. 4-H provides SET education opportunities by engaging youth in hands-on, interdisciplinary educational experiences that foster an increased understanding and appreciation Science, Technology, Engineering and Applied Mathematics. Programs and projects are offered in the areas of aerospace, biotechnology, computer science, energy and electricity, robotics, physical sciences and petroleum power.



Long-Term Outcomes:

Long Term Outcomes



  • Youth will increase STEM literacy in the general population
  • Youth will innovate in addressing social problems and situations using STEM
  • Youth will increase the number and diversity of individuals pursuing educational opportunities and careers in STEM related fields
Intermediate Outcomes:


Initial Outcomes:


Evaluation:

Evaluation


Learning Opportunities:

Timeline: 2020-2021

Back to the Program