Region C–Filling the Gap: Project-Based Learning
STEM West
Teachers will work with local STEM businesses to create and implement a project-based learning (PBL) unit in their classes. PBL units allow students to do authentic work/learning. All their work is based on a real-life problem or issue, in this case at a local STEM business. Aligning this issue with the mandated state standards provides a meaningful framework for students. The final projects will be diverse and yet relevant to students and the business. The pilot project carried out in 2014-15 and in 2016-17, and 2017-18 provided mandatory engagement for students. If they are engaged they are learning….
Teacher Deliverables:
- Attend and engage in all learning opportunities
- Work professionally with business partner
- Create and implement PBL unit with classes and provide reflection on that activity
- Provide unit plan in provided formats
- Present unit and reflection at the spring STEM West meeting in 2019
Teacher Receivables:
- Teachers will receive $100/day stipend for training (5 days, July 30-August 3, 2018)
- Teachers will network with teachers across 4 other counties and STEM businesses
- Teachers will be provided with funding for 2 substitutes to attend a meeting in the fall and then to present at the spring STEM West meeting
- Teachers will receive $200 for completion of PBL units in correct formats
Business Deliverables:
- Work with STEM West to provide tours for participating teachers
- Provide one business contact to work with teacher and attend 1 day of training on project-based learning
- Provide information and support to teacher as needed to create realistic PBL
Business Receivables:
- Businesses will receive recognition throughout process in participating school and STEM West website
- Businesses will build a relationship with local high school
- Business contact will develop a more clear understanding of mandated state curriculum
The following criteria will receive priority for teacher selection:
- 7th-12th grade teachers
- Science, Math, and CTE teachers
- Strong principal recommendation
All activities are funding by the Duke Energy Foundation and Appalachian Regional Commission
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Calling for teachers to apply to become GEMS club coaches!!
These clubs will allow girls to gain confidence in science, technology, engineering, and math. There has been a great deal of research that continues to provide evidence that gender is the gap found in STEM careers. For more specific information about GEMS clubs see http://www.gemsclub.org/
STEM West has received funding from the Duke Energy Foundation and pending funds from the Appalachian Region Commission to support the start-up of 15 clubs across the following counties: McDowell, Polk, and Rutherford.
Expectations:
- Attend stipend paid ($100 per day= $400) summer training: August 13-16th, 2018
- Attend 2 follow-up sessions to collaborate and present updates on club (substitutes will be paid by grant)
- Hold at least 10 club sessions with approximately 30 girls in elementary or middle school
- Responsibly use the funds provided for club materials
Benefits:
- Paid professional development from experts in the field of girls and STEM, receiving certificate of completion
- Paid substitutes for follow up
- Opportunities to collaborate and learn from others across the region
- $200 provided to your school under your name for GEMS club materials
Apply at: https://goo.gl/forms/DpyGtSNrIfOpjwEJ2
Applications are Due: March 16th
Questions? Contact Carol Moore at [email protected] or 828-241-5480