Post-secondary Work Integrated Learning Through STEM Outreach

Abstract

This work in progress paper reports on a multi-year project designed to articulate the learning and employability skills gained by a pan-Canadian group of undergraduate students, by way of their training and work experience as youth program “instructors” delivering STEM outreach activities for youth. In order to further examine the development of employability skills, a framework of 12 “Future Skills,” was developed, drawing on existing competency frameworks, Engineering graduate attributes, and through interviews with program directors and employers. This framework and the instructor experience was subsequently explored through a pre- and post-program survey, as well as a smaller qualitative study, using semi-structured interviews and reflection pieces. This research has demonstrated that the instructors develop more confidence in a subset of skills, including adaptability, communication, collaboration and creativity through their STEM outreach instructor experience. This project as a whole presents a valuable opportunity to connect and leverage other post-secondary initiatives underway to prepare undergraduates with the skills and competencies needed for engineering and other STEM careers. This paper presents findings to date, and invites feedback on future phases of the project.