The Effect of One Touch STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Program Education on Students' Perception of and Self-Identification with STEM and Scientists

Abstract

While science subjects intrigue a large percentage of young students, the numbers continually drop over the course of pre-college exposure to the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) topics. Therefore this study was designed to assess the effectiveness of ‘One Touch' STEM education programs in changing students' perception of STEM and/or scientists. It in particular asks if it affects one gender or age more than another. The results indicated that 1ˢᵗ grade students began with the least ability to identify with STEM and scientists (with pre-survey questions averaging 2.13 on a scale indicating ‘positive identification' while 5ᵗʰ, 8ᵗʰ, and 11ᵗʰ grade students averaged 2.45, 2.32, and 2.42, respectively) and also showed the greatest potential for change (with an average change of 42.34% while 5ᵗʰ, 8ᵗʰ, and 11ᵗʰ grade students averaged 30.25%, 24.15%, and 26.70%, respectively). The results also showed that female students began with the least ability to identify with STEM and scientists (with pre survey questions averaging 2.30 while male students averaged 2.42), and showed a greater potential for change (with an average change of 31.97% while male students averaged 24.55%). Results of this study suggest that STEM education should begin early and address gender stereotypes. With this information, STEM advocates in Tucson will be able to better utilize funding and understand their target populations.