Educational programs typically target educators in an in-school context, or parents and kids in a community context. But it's rare for a program to successfully reach both parents and educators in a fully integrated way that allows both constituencies to interact with and learn from each other.
We've found that recent technology advancements have provided a solution, and that using social media channels not only enables programs to reach parents and educators equally well, they enable the creation of geographically broad communities of common interest, and facilitate discussion and collaboration.
Have you had similar experiences? I'd love to hear about them if you have.
Recently, a good friend posted on facebook about the challenges her son was having in school as new student (Prek). Within one hour she had over 40 supportive comments, suggestions, resources, and information from family, friends and colleagues--all with varying perspectives. It really showed the power of this new way of communicating.
Here's a shocking fact: In math literacy, the U.S. score put it at number 25 out of 34 countries participating in the 2009 Program for International Student Assessment study.* In science, we're number 17.
Kudos to Changemakers, the Carnegie Corporation, and the other generous sponsors for recognizing the need for STEM education and doing something positive about it.
* The 11 countries at numbers 18 through 29 have average scores that make them approximately the same.
This fact underscores the need for creating many avenues for students to be engaged in math--in school, afterschool, at home and in the community. Math is the language of science. Without a strong math background the children of this country will not be ready for the jobs of tomorrow!!
As a parent, I took advantage of every opportunity I could find to excite my children about science and math. The results of this commitment is a daughter who is now a civil engineer, and two sons who are in the telecommunications and computer technology fields. The STEM of Stuff sounds like a great idea!
This project speaks to the research that shows how important parent involvement is in improving children's education -- in this case, about the critical subjects of science, technology, engineering and math.
Growing up, the first contact and interest to science and technology started at home. I was fortunate enough to have access to a computer and parents who provided support to my tech/science interests. Without the interest generated at home I am sure I would not have had the edge in my future learning and eventually in my technical career.
We have participated in many of the EEC@AED Math Plus, Science and Anti-bullying projects. The equity piece was most important in reaching out to our at risk students and low income families, dispelling stereotypes and gender biases. As a teacher, director of an afterschool/summer program and advocate for all children and their caretakers, I find that an online program helps me download Sigt curriculum guides, lessons,activities and assessments. This program is an invaluable tool for all to access and utilize.
Comments
Educational programs typically target educators in an in-school context, or parents and kids in a community context. But it's rare for a program to successfully reach both parents and educators in a fully integrated way that allows both constituencies to interact with and learn from each other.
We've found that recent technology advancements have provided a solution, and that using social media channels not only enables programs to reach parents and educators equally well, they enable the creation of geographically broad communities of common interest, and facilitate discussion and collaboration.
Have you had similar experiences? I'd love to hear about them if you have.
Recently, a good friend posted on facebook about the challenges her son was having in school as new student (Prek). Within one hour she had over 40 supportive comments, suggestions, resources, and information from family, friends and colleagues--all with varying perspectives. It really showed the power of this new way of communicating.
Great idea - schools need partnerships that educate and excite the whole family.
Great way to connect parents and teachers to kids learning about STEM!
Here's a shocking fact: In math literacy, the U.S. score put it at number 25 out of 34 countries participating in the 2009 Program for International Student Assessment study.* In science, we're number 17.
Kudos to Changemakers, the Carnegie Corporation, and the other generous sponsors for recognizing the need for STEM education and doing something positive about it.
* The 11 countries at numbers 18 through 29 have average scores that make them approximately the same.
This fact underscores the need for creating many avenues for students to be engaged in math--in school, afterschool, at home and in the community. Math is the language of science. Without a strong math background the children of this country will not be ready for the jobs of tomorrow!!
As a parent, I took advantage of every opportunity I could find to excite my children about science and math. The results of this commitment is a daughter who is now a civil engineer, and two sons who are in the telecommunications and computer technology fields. The STEM of Stuff sounds like a great idea!
Keep up the great work EEC!
Thanks, Sarah. We appreciate the encouragement!
This project speaks to the research that shows how important parent involvement is in improving children's education -- in this case, about the critical subjects of science, technology, engineering and math.
This project sounds like a great idea, it's important to connect parents and schools around childrens' early interest in science.
Sounds like a terrific and much needed program to engage the whole family in STEM!
Growing up, the first contact and interest to science and technology started at home. I was fortunate enough to have access to a computer and parents who provided support to my tech/science interests. Without the interest generated at home I am sure I would not have had the edge in my future learning and eventually in my technical career.
I fully support this project!!!
We have participated in many of the EEC@AED Math Plus, Science and Anti-bullying projects. The equity piece was most important in reaching out to our at risk students and low income families, dispelling stereotypes and gender biases. As a teacher, director of an afterschool/summer program and advocate for all children and their caretakers, I find that an online program helps me download Sigt curriculum guides, lessons,activities and assessments. This program is an invaluable tool for all to access and utilize.
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