Challenge to bolster the evidence base for 4-H science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programming

Abstract

Research has shown that participation in 4-H science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)programs is associated with positive youth outcomes, including higher science and math standardized testscores. In reflecting on the 4-H Science initiative's logic model and recent evaluative studies of 4-H STEMprograms, we identified a need for systematic, comprehensive literature reviews and meta-analyses ofpublished materials about 4-H STEM programs. We issue a challenge to the Cooperative Extension System andland-grant universities to conduct such research to communicate impacts of 4-H STEM programs, describesuccessful 4-H STEM programs, identify best practices and strengthen 4-H STEM programs, and improve STEMprogramming for children and youths overall.