Statistics show the majority of students who choose to study science, technology, engineering or mathematics in college make their decision in high school or even earlier. It is so important to introduce students to STEM careers and encourage an appreciation and love for STEM before students enter the work world or post-secondary education, and Washburn’s education department is doing that by offering STEM camps for children. Your Day of Giving gift can increase the reach we have in this important initiative.
A report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10.8% increase in STEM occupations between 2021 and 2031. This is compared to a 4.9% increase for non-STEM-related occupations. Further, the projected median annual salary for a STEM occupation is more than double that for a non-STEM occupation.
Washburn’s education department currently offers two weeklong STEM camps for middle school students. With the help of grant money, the camp is free. This allows students to participate who would not otherwise have the opportunity. Our goal is to expand our offerings to include a high school level camp that integrates art and STEM. Georgette Yakman, the developer of the STEAM framework, said it is not about just adding another subject to STEM. It is about adding the “who and why” to the reasoning of the “what and how” in the STEM fields. STEM prepares students to solve problems and think critically. STEAM prepares students to do that and to use creativity in doing so.
Participants will explore different STEM topics and integrate art through projects and activities led by Washburn faculty and staff from the education and art departments as well as the Mulvane Art Museum. Our goal is to raise $12,000 on Day of Giving to provide funding for 20 campers at $600 each for the five-day experience.
Sources
https://www.k12digest.com/steam-an-educational-framework-to-relate-things-to-each-other-and-reality/
https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/steam-education-in-schools/#why-steam
