Future of the Pacific: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists and Engineers Through Place-Based Problem-Solving Using Innovative STEM Curriculum and Technology Tools

Abstract

The Future of the Pacific (FOP) program has sought to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by developing and implementing a multi-faceted STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) program for middle and high school students and teachers throughout the Pacific Region. The program's main focus has been Hawaii schools, specifically targeting underrepresented populations in STEM fields, including Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students as well as young girls and women. Within Hawaii, workshops and activities in the FOP program reached 275 teachers representing over 18,500 students, with a focus on inquiry learning methods and culturally-relevant STEM projects and activities for students with a broad spectrum of interests and abilities. Additionally, the program expanded in Asia-Pacific through a joint educational research pilot extending through 2014 with The Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology in Thailand, training eight Thai and Lao PDR teachers in inquiry learning methods. The final program presentation, evaluation, and reflection were presented in Bangkok March 30-April 5, 2014. Results from this pilot phase included a 100% implementation rate in all recipient schools with 37 activities presented to more than 350 students.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 30, 2016
Accession Number
AD1007719

Entities

People

  • Graham Devey
  • Leslie Bristol
  • Leslie Wilkins

Organizations

  • Maui Economic Development Board

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Demographic Cohorts
  • Education
  • Electromagnetic Radiation
  • Energy Conservation
  • Energy Transfer
  • Engineering
  • Governments
  • Instructors
  • Minority Groups
  • Renewable Energy
  • Schools
  • Social Sciences
  • Students
  • Training
  • United States
  • Wind Energy
  • Wind Turbines

Fields of Study

  • Education

Readers

  • East Asian Political and Security Studies within the Soviet Union
  • STEM Education
  • Urban Planning and Geography.