Collaborations Between Under-Resourced High School Students and STEM Professionals to Increase Participation in Science and Engineering Fairs

Abstract

Industries in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics have enriched the economy of the United States. The US economy is dependent on educators to lead under-resourced high school students to STEM majors in college and careers through educational K-12 programs. Students who conduct high school research and participate in national and international science fairs receive substantial experiences to catapult them into STEM fields. High school students in the central region of Waterside School District have historically less participation in the regional science and engineering fairs than north and south regions due to lack of research skills acquired through collaboration and mentoring with STEM professionals to develop STEM projects. A program to connect the under-resourced students with STEM professionals to collaborate and mentor students about their research was implemented by the local school district. Scientific Research Saturday’s program was positively received by non-focused high school students, however, the target group had limited attendance. Recommendations for program revisions include e-mentoring for students to accommodate transportation, hosting the workshops in more central locations for the focus group, and incorporating reflections by STEM professionals after workshops to improve effectiveness of sessions moving forward.