STEM Equity Pipeline News
Raising the performance of underrepresented groups in STEM-related subjects-and
sparking their enthusiasm for those disciplines-has become a major focus of policymakers
in recent years. Yet many uncertainties remain about how best to accomplish those
Computing is essentially math on steroids, writes Steve Lohr for the New York Times.
So, at first glance, it should seem appropriate that the National Mathematics Advisory
Panel included computer-based instruction among its recommendations to address the
mediocre level of math achievement in the United States. However, the champions
of computing in the classroom have hailed the math panel report as an encouraging
win instead of a commonplace recommendation. The panel's focus is so valuable because
it suggests that computing should be seen as a necessary tool in mainstream education
along with math, science, reading, etc.
Defense contractors scramble for next generation of engineers: Faced with an aging
work force, stiff competition and strict hiring rules, the defense industry is facing
a shortage of young scientists and engineers that could affect national security.
Such concerns are prompting some defense companies to send math and science tutors
into elementary schools and offer reimbursement for college tuition.
Students who learn math concepts abstractly may be able to apply them better than
students who are taught using concrete examples, according to a new study published
in the journal Science. Ohio State cognitive-research scientist Jennifer A. Kaminski
said the difficulty is that "real-world" imagery tends to upstage the foundational
mathematical concepts, so students were unable to shift their knowledge from one
problem to the next. "It's really a problem of our attention getting pulled to superficial
information," Kaminski said.
Designed as a unique and much-needed resource for educators, managers, and policymakers,
the Journal of Women and Minorities in Science and Engineering publishes original,
peer-reviewed papers that report innovative ideas and programs for classroom teachers,
scientific studies, and formulation of concepts related to the education, recruitment,
and retention of under-represented groups in science and engineering.
The Mickelson ExxonMobil 2009 Teachers Academy offers a five-day program, with camps
in New Jersey, Texas and Louisiana, designed to provide third- through fifth-grade
teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to motivate students to pursue
careers in science and math. Maximum Award: all expenses paid five-day program in
July 2009. Eligibility: third- through fifth-grade teachers from all over the United
States. Deadline: October 31, 2008.
The International Institute of Women in Engineering incorporating the Young Engineers'
Society (YES) conducts at EPF, France a 3 week short course aimed at both female
and male final year undergraduate, or recently graduated engineers. The aim of the
course that has a prescribed theme every year is to introduce young engineers to
the broad concepts and global issues they will encounter in their careers and to
intiate cultural awareness and communication skills that are required for professional
practice in an everchanging workplace.
SAVE THE DATE
May 14, 2008, 11:00-12:00 PDT
How can I get my students excited about a career in technology, science, or engineering?
How can I work better with industry professionals and corporate partners to encourage
outreach to students? When a role model visits my classroom, how can I make sure
they are engaging and able to excite my students about careers in science, technology,
and engineering? Participate in this webcast to learn how to address these questions
and help role models connect with girls in your community.
May 21, 2008, 2:00pm EDT
Tricia Berry from the University of Texas at Austin and the Assessing Women and
Men in Engineering Project shares about assessments and using objective driven assessment
to improve the success of local programs.
June 22 - 25, 2008, Pittsburgh, PA
The ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, committed to fostering the exchange of
ideas, enhancing teaching methods and curricula, and providing networking opportunities
for faculty members, deans and industry representatives interested in furthering