"Science: It's A Girl Thing" - Two Divergent Approaches

Carolyn Johnson of the Boston Globe reports on two very different approaches by two organizations (European Commission and Dartmouth University) on "selling the idea" that science is "a girl thing,"  providing links to their two videos.  The Science in Mind blog points out the need for increasing the numbers of women in STEM, referencing a Yale University study on scientific biases impacting gender disparities in the field.  http://www.boston.com/news/science/blogs/science-in-mind/2012/12/20/science-girl-thing/gfzk6sZFOheQFx7ugBZphO/blog.html

SBAC Releases Draft Common Core Assessment Blueprints

The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC), of which California is a participant, has released its draft Common Core State Standards assessment blueprints for both English/Literacy and Math.  These assessments will begin being used by states in the 2014-2015 school year.  To view the draft, visit http://www.smarterbalanced.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Smarter-Balanced-Preliminary-Test-Blueprints.pdf

On a related note, the Next Generation Science Standards second round of public review is expected to be announced in January 2013.  California is also one of the states which is participating in this effort.  For more information, go to http://www.nextgenscience.org/.

Happy Holidays from AV STEMCenter!

How many STEM activities can you find in this scene?  :)

Digital STEM Mentorship Program for Girls - Applications Due by 1/31/13

The Huffington Post is sponsoring a new digital STEM mentorship program for young women aged 14-21 years old.  Through an application process, girls will be matched with female engineers, scientists, or science writers as mentors, with opportunities to connect digitally.  Both participants are then encouraged to blog about their experiences for the HuffPost.  Applications for the program are due by 31 January 2013 - the program officially runs through April 2013, but continuing contact is at the discretion of the participants.  To apply, visit http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rebecca-searles/stem-mentorship-program_b_2288918.html and follow the "apply here" link.

"Greening STEM" Theme for National Environmental Week

The National Environmental Education Foundation has set the theme for National Environmental Education Week on 10-14 April 2013 - it will be "Greening STEM:  Taking Technology Outdoors."  Teachers of grades K-12 and organizations may register to participate in the week-long commemoration, and have access to a number of resources and apps related to the theme.  To get more information (including an infographic on Green STEM), and to register, go to http://www.eeweek.org/ .

ExploraVision Team Entries Due by 1/31/13

Toshiba and the National Science Teachers Association are partnering to offer the "ExploraVision" competition, which is open to student teams of 2-4 members in grades K-12 of all skill levels.  Entries will address a particular type of technology and envision what it will look like in 20 years, as well as research and simulate what it will take to advance it to that point.  Submissions are due by no later than 31 January 2013.  For more information about the competition criteria and to register a team to participate, go to http://www.exploravision.org/about/.

Advanced STEM Service Learning Workshop Scheduled for 2/20/13 in Palmdale

MEEC, sponsored by the generosity of Boeing, will be presenting a teacher Advanced STEM Service Learning Workshop at the Palmdale Conference Center, 1156 East Avenue S, from 4:30 to 7:30pm, on 20 February 2013.  Participants will receive free materials (including a copy of a new book, Integrating Scientific Practices and Service Learning, valued at $35, plus dinner!  Registration closes on 12 February - spots are limited - sign up early.  For more information, visit http://www.meeconline.com/2013-workshops/

MEEC is also offering workshops on the new Environmental Education Initiative curriculum and Earth Science standards in the high desert on 13 February - information on the MEEC website shown above. 

President's Environmental Youth Award Applications Due 12/31/12

The annual President's Environmental Youth Award regional awards applications are due by no later than 31 December 2012.  Projects, completed by students at the K-12 level, are considered for awards based upon criteria such as the extent of the student's initiative in beginning the project, environmental need/appropriateness, positive environmental impact, and sound approach.  Proposals must be submitted, not exceeding 300 words.  For more information on eligibility requirements and the application process, visit http://www.epa.gov/peya/#PIAEEreqs=0 .

"NASA Johnson Style" Video

Scientists from NASA's Johnson Space Center are seen dancing and rapping about their careers in a new "Gangnam" style video.  "NASA Johnson Style".

Homeland Security National Lab Internship Applications Due by 1/15/13

The Department of Homeland Security has announced 10-week summer internships at National Labs for college undergraduate and graduate students; stipends are available for $5,000 to $7,000.   

Placements are available at labs such as Argonne, Lawrence Livermore, Scandia, Los Alamos, and Oak Ridge, as well as  Homeland Security Studies and Analysis Institute, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Coast Guard Research and Development Center, and Plum Island.   

 Applications are due by no later than 15 January 2013; applicants must be US citizens, and
areas of interest for these internships for undergraduates include engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological/life sciences, environmental science, emergency and incident management, social sciences. For graduates, the areas of interest include nuclear engineering, physics, mathematics, statistics, computer sciences, systems engineering, electrical engineering and material science.

For more information and to apply, visit DHS STEM Summer Internships.  

Google Awards $5M to Increase Under-Represented Student Participation in AP STEM Courses

Erik Robelen reports in the Education Week "Curriculum Matters" blog that Google has donated $5 million to the College Board and DonorsChoose.org to work with 800 high schools to be chosen to increase female and ethnic minority students' participation in AP STEM courses.  They will work directly with teachers to get the schools qualified and to obtain the materials and equipment necessary to launch the courses.  The schools will be chosen based upon target student populations and their performance on the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.  One of the other Google Global Impact Awards granted will also provide $1.8 million to Equal Opportunity Schools to help qualified students to move on to more advanced coursework.  Education Week Curriculum Matters - AP STEM Courses .

NOAA Climate Steward Applications Due 12/17/12

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced an opportunity for educators to participate in the Climate Stewards Education Project.  Applications are due by no later than Monday, 17 December 2012.  Participants will take part in 15 hours of professional development in climate science and education the first year and 9 hours for each additional year of participation, take part in after-hours webinars and regional events, develop and implement a local climate stewardship project, and share activities and reflections on the CSEP wiki.  After completing the activities and evaluation, participants will be eligible for mini-grants and stipends to participate in conferences and activities.  For more information and to apply, visit NOAA Climate Stewards Education Project Application .

New TIMSS Results Show Gains for US Students

The recently-released Third International Math and Science Study results show that US students' average scores in math were above the international average in both the fourth and eighth grades.  US fourth graders' math scores were in the top 8 of the 45 nations participating in the study, while the eighth graders' were 11th out of 38 nations.  In reading, scores were an average of 56 points higher than the international average, ranking them in the top 13 on the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study.  Florida, which requested its individual state scores to be compared with other nations, was among the highest, equal with Singapore, Finland and Hong Kong. USA Today TIMSS Results

NAE Releases Real-World Engineering Programs List

The National Academy of Engineering, in collaboration with Advanced Micro Devices, has released a report on 29 collegiate engineering programs which infuse real-world experiences within their curricula.  California schools included on the list are Harvey Mudd College's Engineering Clinic Program capstone course, Santa Clara University's Field Robotics Program, and UC San Diego's Team Internship Program.   The programs were among 89 nominees, with preference given to those which could be replicated at other institutions, with assessment based upon innovation, creativity, attention to diversity, student outcomes, sustainability, and level of real-world experience.  To view the full report, visit http://www.nae.edu/File.aspx?id=65139.

"Scaling STEM: Strategies That Engage Minds" Conference Scheduled for March 2013

North Carolina New Schools Project and Teaching Institute for Excellence in STEM (TIES) are co-sponsoring the "Scaling STEM: Strategies that Engage Minds" conference for 11-12 March 2013 in Durham, North Carolina.  The session is designed for school leaders "to learn together and provide best and emerging practices from STEM school operations," with sessions including designing on-line programs, career pathways, STEM schools and networks, as well as collaborating with workforce developers and philanthropists.  The keynote speaker will be Emily Stover DeRocco, President of The Manufacturing Institute.  For more information on the conference, visit http://scalingstem.org/.

Building Engineering Interest in Teens Critical to Future Success

Citing a 2011 Intel report and data from the National Science Foundation, a recent article in the Deseret News stresses the importance of building teen interest in engineering careers as a vital piece in ensuring their success in colleges of engineering.  The NSF notes that half of students choosing engineering majors drop the program in their freshman year.  The Intel student survey also shows that 63% of students have never considered a career in engineering (likely because they don't know what engineers do), while 61% are more likely to make that career choice once they understand the earnings potential; 29% don't know about the potential job opportunities in engineering, and 13% don't think it will lead to any more opportunities.  The article also points out that while the outlook for mechanical, electrical and electronics engineers is currently lower than usual due to the recession, opportunities for civil, environmental and biomedical engineers are booming.  Participation in programs such as FIRST Robotics is one way to stimulate student interest in the field, while nurturing 21st Century skills.  http://www.deseretnews.com/article/765617048/Building-enough-engineers-to-meet-future-demand-must-start-early-experts-say.html?pg=all

"Smart Desks" and Other Tools in STEM Classrooms of the Future

Popular Science  has reported on a project undertaken by Durham University in the UK, through its Schools of Education, Computer Science, and Psychology; the group has developed a new multi-user, multiple touch "smart desk" interface with teacher viewing software.  Studies of 400 students aged 8-10 years old with the new "Star Trek" desks tends to show increased student engagement in math through peer collaboration and more teacher oversight than traditional paper and pencil lessons.  http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2012-11/classroom-future-turns-desks-multi-user-touchscreen-tablets 

In a related survey by the MIT Center for Mobile Learning at the Media Lab and Verizon Foundation, it was determined that middle school youths who use mobile technology such as smartphones and tablets are more likely to be interested in STEM subjects.  http://thejournal.com/articles/2012/11/29/report-middle-school-students-using-smartphones-more-interested-in-stem.aspx?admgarea=News1

Value of STEM Education Infographic

Edutopia has posted an infographic on the value of STEM education, including the facts that 80% of the fastest-growing careers require mastery of science and math, that growth in STEM areas has exceeded that in others by 300% over the last 10 years, that workers with STEM degrees enjoy higher earnings, lower unemployment rates, and enter and complete college at higher rates.  To view and download the infographic, visit Edutopia: The Value of a STEM Education .

AFRL Hosting Rocket Propulsion Research Conference at AVC

The AFRL will be hosting the Rocket Propulsion Research Conference at Antelope Valley College Health and Sciences Building Room 201 from on Tuesday, 11 December, through Thursday, 12 December 2013.  Day one will focus on Space Propulsion and Combustion topics, day two on Combustion and Propellants as well as a tour of AVC facilities, and day three on Propellants and Propulsion Materials.  Each day will run from approximately 8:00am to 4:00pm.  For more information, please contact Jamie Jones at AVC, hsistemcoop@gmail.com or 661.722.6300 x 6992.

TEAMS Competition Open for Student Registration

The Technology Student Association has announced its 2013 "TEAMS" (Tests of Engineering Aptitude Math and Science) competition, themed "Engineering a Secure Cyberspace."  Middle school and high school students may compete at the state and national levels by solving real-world engineering problems modeled after the Grand Engineering Challenges.  The competition period is in February and March of 2013; finalists are eligible (at their own expense) to participate at the national summer competition in Orlando, Florida.  Monthly math challenges are also available for registered teams.  For more information, visit http://teams.tsaweb.org/ .

100 Women Leaders in STEM Publication Available

STEMConnector has published its "100 Women Leaders in STEM" which is now available as a pdf download from the web.  The profiles include women from business, industry, government and education at state and federal levels.  http://www.stemconnector.org/sites/default/files/100-Women-Leaders-in-STEM-WEB.pdf 

AV Math Council Meet and Greet 12/5/12 in Palmdale

The Antelope Valley Math Council is hosting a free "Meet and Greet" event revolving around a discussion of Common Core support of STEM-athematics Education from 4:00 to 6:00pm on Wednesday, 5 December 2012, at the Palmdale Conference Center, 1156 East Avenue "S," in Palmdale (ROP/CCTE building).  Come on out for pizza, fun and math.  Stay tuned for further details on the Spring AVMC Symposium scheduled for April 2013.    For more information, contact AVMathCouncil@gmail.com .

Verizon Innovative App Challenge Entries Due By 1/18/13

Verizon is offering five middle schools and five high schools $10,000 each, as well as a Samsung tablet for each winning team member, for winning entries in its "Innovative App Challenge."  Teams of 5-10 students, working with a faculty advisor, must submit entries between 1 December 2012 and 18 January 2013, which "use their STEM knowledge, their ingenuity, and their creativity to come up with an original mobile app concept that incorporates STEM and addresses a need or problem in their school or community."  For more information about registration and how to enter the challenge, visit http://appchallenge.tsaweb.org/index.html 

40 Important Web Resources for Women in STEM

On-Line Universities has just published a list of "40 Important Online Resources for Women in STEM."  The list includes sites of many associations, as well as those with resources, materials and mentors.  To see the list, visit http://www.onlineuniversities.com/blog/2012/10/40-important-online-resources-women-stem/

Hip-Hop Artist and University Professor Teaming to Teach STEM Concepts

The New York Times reports that hip-hop artist GZA and Columbia professor Dr. Christopher Emdin are collaborating on a project with lyrics site Rap Genius to use hip-hop as a science teaching tool with African-American youth.  The pilot will be used in 10 NYC public schools, with the hope of changing the way teachers relate to students of color.  In other efforts, the Rap Genius site recently received a $15 million venture capital investment, and it hopes to expand into education; GZA consulted with MIT physicists on an album about the cosmos; and Dr. Emdin has written a book on urban science for the hip-hop generation.  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/18/nyregion/columbia-professor-and-gza-aim-to-help-teach-science-through-hip-hop.html?_r=0

National Research Council Publicizes Indicators for STEM Education Monitoring

The National Research Council recently released a report outlining a set of 14 key indicators for monitoring success of STEM education initiatives.  The report is intended to act as a framework for legislators and federal agencies to craft "national-level monitoring and reporting system."  Indicators include:  the amount of time devoted by elementary teachers to science instruction; the availability of district-adopted Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards aligned instructional materials; teacher STEM content knowledge; enrollment in available STEM-focused schools and programs; teacher participation in STEM-focused professional development; inclusion of science in state accountability systems; state and district support for science instruction; and federal funding for STEM-focused research.  http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/curriculum/2012/11/nrc_issues_report_on_tracking_.html  The full report can be accessed at http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=13509

Grants to Foster STEM Learning

The National Commission on Teaching and America's Future has received a $95,000 grant from the Boeing Corporation to implement its "STEM Learning Studios" initiative in targeted Maryland school districts.  The STEM Learning Studios partner local scientists and engineers with inter-disciplinary teams of teachers on a campus who work together on a year-long investigative project involving a real-world problem with an aim to reach a solution.  A summit was held on 15 November with Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and education officials to engage more industry representatives in the initiative.  http://nctaf.org/featured-home/nctaf-receives-grant-from-boeing-to-implement-innovative-stem-teaching-initiative/

The US Department of Education recently announced the finalists in the 2012 Investing in Innovation (I3) grant competition.  Included among the top contenders are two STEM initiatives, both involving Project Lead the Way.  One is proposed by LEED Sacramento, and the other by Clark County Schools.  http://www2.ed.gov/programs/innovation/2012/applications.html  The final awards are expected to be announced by 31 December 2012.

SMART Competition Registration Open Until 1/18/13

The SMART Competition for high school student teams is open for registration now through 18 January 2013.  The competition involves the intelligent re-design of an existing school gym using efficient localized energy management principles using mentors.  Five deliverable components are required as part of the multi-disciplinary project judging, including:  1) a scale model;   2) a computer-generated animation of a fly-around; 3) a written Design, Innovation and Impact Report; 4) a team presentation; and 5)  a written proposal to education officials.  There is a $100 cost for teams to register for the competition (scholarships may be available).  Regional and national awards are provided to winners.  For more details and to register a team, visit the SMART Competition site  at http://www.smartcompetition.org/registration?tab=teams.

STEM/CTE Diploma Proposals Arising

Senator Charles Schumer has proposed two new CTE/STEM-focused high school diplomas to be issued within the State of New York in an effort to promote STEM-qualified students for high-tech manufacturing and other middle skill jobs within the state.  http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20121114/NEWS10/311140059/Schumer-pushes-new-diplomas-promote-high-tech-industries?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE&nclick_check=1

In a similar effort, the Spokane Valley schools are offering an alternative CTE diploma, requiring two fewer credits to be earned than the traditional high school diploma, as a means to reach students otherwise at-risk of dropping out.  http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/nov/03/education-option/ 

This appears to continues a trend from Arizona's Chandler Unified School District offering STEM diplomas, on which information was included in this blog approximately a year ago.  http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/curriculum/2011/12/arizona_high_school_to_offer_n.html

STEM Presentations at CALCP/CAROCP Fall Conference

Mimi Lufkin, Executive Director of the National Association for Partnerships in Equity, presented on 15 November 2012 at the CALCP/CAROCP [California Association of Leaders in Career Preparation and California Association of Regional Occupational Centers and Programs] Fall Conference in Rancho Mirage.  Her presentation explained the initiatives of the STEM Equity Pipeline toward increasing the numbers of under-represented populations within the STEM community. To view her presentation, visit http://www.napequity.org/nape-content/uploads/Lufkin.CAROP_.2012.pdf.

Joel Beckmann, Coordinator of the AV region National Defense Education Partnership grant, and Diane Walker of the AVUHSD also presented "Creating and Expanding Vibrant STEM Pathways" at the conference .  Please enjoy their presentation by following this link:

Creating and Expanding Vibrant STEM Pathways Presentation

Arizona Science of Baseball Pilot Program

The University of Arizona is partnering with industry as well as local middle and high school students to begin a pilot program using baseball to engage students in physics and mathematics.  According to engineering professor Ricardo Valerdi, "The goal is to develop future scientists and engineers by establishing a connection among baseball and statistics, geometry, human performance, nutrition and other technical aspects of the game."  http://www.kvoa.com/news/new-ua-program-teaching-kids-stem-subjects-through-baseball/

SJSU Offers "Philosophy of Science" Course

Prof. Janet Stemwedel , a former physical chemist, is teaching a course in "Philosophy of Science" at San Jose State.  The course, which meets the upper-division general education requirement for science, focuses on the scientific method, the differences between science and pseudo-science, and the impact of scientific activities on humans, using specific scientific principles as examples for student exercises.  Professor Stemwedel hopes that the course may engage and reduce the science-anxiety of students who might otherwise be afraid of taking a "real" science course as part of their college curriculum.  http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/doing-good-science/2012/11/06/science-education-am-i-part-of-the-solution-or-part-of-the-problem/

Engineering Pathway Orientation Meeting at AVC 11/19/12

Antelope Valley College and CSULB/AV - AV Engineering Program will present an orientation to the engineering pathway degree completion program on 19 November 2012, from 5:30 to 7:00pm at the AVC Boardroom (SSV151).  Sharon Delmage from the Palmdale Center will make a special presentation on the PATHEVO program.  http://www.avc.edu/stem/documents/EngPathwayFlyerNovPROOF2.pdf 

Tehachapi Robotics Super Science Saturday 11/10/12

The second annual Tehachapi High School Robotics Club "Super Science Saturday" will be held on 10 November 2012 from noon to 6:00pm at the THS Cafeteria.  It will include hands-on displays, demonstrations and guest speakers; while the event is primarily geared towards elementary aged children, all are welcome.  Activities involve explosive chemistry, robotics, astronomy, quadrotors, engineering, gemology, and more.  Food is available for purchase.  For more information, contact Danielle Evansic at (661) 822-2130 or devansic@teh.k12.ca.us .

NASA "DEVELOP" Applications Due

NASA's DEVELOP internship program is accepting applications for high school, college, and graduate students to serve as interns at a variety of locations nation-wide and in Mexico, including NASA Ames in Northern California and JPL in Pasadena.  The program seeks "interns [to] lead research projects that focus on utilizing NASA Earth observations to address community concerns and public policy issues."  Applications for the upcoming spring term (28 Jan. - 5 April) are due by 15 November, and for summer 2013 (3 June - 9 August) are due by 4 February.  For more information, visit http://develop.larc.nasa.gov/about.html .

"Exploring Your Universe" at UCLA 11/10/12

UCLA and Astronomy Live! are hosting "Exploring Your Universe" at the UCLA campus, Court of Sciences and Kinsey Pavilion, on Saturday, 10 November 2012, from noon to 8:00pm.  The event (free admission, $11 parking on campus) will feature lectures, debates, displays, demonstrations, and telescope viewings, among other activities.  For more information, visit www.astro.ucla.edu/~outreach/eyu.html . 

"Tech Trekkers Explain Tech Trek" Event 11/10/12 at AVC

The AV branch of AAUW will be sponsoring a meeting featuring presentations by over a dozen recent "Tech Trekkers" about their summer camp experience on Saturday, 10 November 2012, from 9:30 to 11:00am in the Antelope Valley College Boardroom (SSV151).  The public is welcome to attend and hear more about Tech Trek, which is a one-week residential summer math/science camp for 7th grade public school young ladies; the girls are nominated by their teachers (current nominations due by 4 December 2012).  For more information, contact Connie Harney at connie.harney@verizon.net or 661.943.4231.

Making the Future Scholarship Application Due 3/31/13

Cognizant is sponsoring a design-based scholarship for undergraduate college students in STEM fields.  Candidates will be required to submit documentation of their hands-on project that features creativity and innovation.  The scholarships are for $5,000 payable to the two- or four-year university for the US student's account; students must have a GPA of 2.5 or above.  Applications are due by 31 March 2013.  For more information about eligibility and application requirements, visit http://www.cognizant.com/makingthefuture .

Coding Contests Applications Due

According to Tech Crunch, http://techcrunch.com/2012/09/24/code-in-contest-for-high-school-students/ , pre-university teens aged 13 to 17 are invited to participate in Google's third "Code-In" contest to develop open-source software.  The contest runs from 26 November 2012 to mid-January 2013, and entrants will be required to complete tasks in coding, documentation, outreach/research, quality assurance, and user interface categories.  Twenty grand prize winners and a parent will get a trip to Google's Mountain View campus and meet with Google employees; those who complete at least three tasks can win a t-shirt.  For further information, visit     http://www.google-melange.com/gci/homepage/google/gci2012

In a similar vein, Square is hosting its "Code Camp Contest" for US or Canadian university engineering students.  http://techcrunch.com/2012/10/02/square-launches-code-camp-contest-to-inspire-women-engineers/  Fifteen female winners will be selected from submitted resumes and letters to attend a three-day immersion program at the mobile payment company's San Francisco headquarters.  Applications are due by 2 November 2012 and the camp will take place in January 2013.  https://form.squareup.com/form/63915efedaf

STEM Literacy for All

Former "Big Blue" (IBM) VP Irving Wladawsky-Berger writes in a Wall Street Journal CIO column that all students need STEM literacy, even if they are not in the 1% who will become engineers or the .01% who will become Ph.D. researchers in STEM fields.  He opines that every modern citizen and worker needs to have technical skills such as quantitative reasoning and dealing with complexities.  Yet, many have the misconception, perhaps aided by educators, that these skills are only for those who will be STEM professionals.  Prof. Richard Larson from MIT is quoted in the CIO Report: “A person has STEM literacy if she can understand the world around her in a logical way guided by the principals of scientific thought. A STEM-literate person can think for herself. She asks critical questions. She can form hypotheses and seek data to confirm or deny them. She sees the beauty and complexity in nature and seeks to understand. She sees the modern world that mankind has created and hopes to use her STEM-related skills and knowledge to improve it.”  http://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2012/09/23/why-cios-desperately-need-a-technology-literate-society/

"Nine New College Majors With a Future"

US News and World Report has noted 9 new college majors, many not in existence 5 to 10 years ago, and which have STEM subject matters and interdisciplinary focus in common.  Included in the list are biomedical engineering, computer game design, environmental studies, health informatics and information management, homeland security, cybersecurity, nanotech, public health and new media.  http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2012/09/12/discover-9-new-college-majors-with-a-future

In a related matter, Computerworld shows through its annual salary survey that median earnings for computer and math jobs rose by 2.8% between 2010-2011, compared to 1.7% for all computer, engineering and science occupations as reported in the census.  http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9231501/U.S._tech_workers_by_the_numbers.

In a survey of British children by hotels.com, more wanted to become "gadget inventors" and aspired to be more like Steve Jobs and Richard Branson than Simon Cowell, Pres. Obama, pilots or doctors.  Information technology was listed as a favorite career choice.  Adults showed similar responses.  http://www.computerweekly.com/news/2240163715/Children-dream-of-technology-careers-research-finds

Women in Technology Sharing On-Line Offers Undergrad Mentoring

Women in Technology Sharing On-Line, sponsored by Harvey Mudd College and Piazza, and the brain-child of Maria Klawe, Harvey Mudd president and Microsoft board member, is open for six weeks beginning 1 October 2012 to provide mentoring to undergraduate women (men are also welcome) in STEM fields.  “I think of this as a MOOC — a massive open online course — and a big mentor-fest,” said Maria Klawe, the president of Harvey Mudd College and a sponsor of the project. “Getting more women into STEM is my passion in life, and every institution that’s set up mentorship programs for young women has been successful at increasing their numbers, so I think this can make a real difference."  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/17/education/online-mentoring-program-to-encourage-women-in-sciences.html?_r=1  Of the 300 mentors available, included are such notables as astronaut Mae Jemison, Jacqueline Barton from Cal Tech, and Padmasree Warrior, Cisco's CTO.

Participating colleges from which the students can enroll include Cal Tech, UC schools, Claremont colleges, Loyola Marymount, Stanford, USC and many others - additional schools may be added to the list and students nominated by professors to participate.  For more information on the program, visit https://piazza.com/witson

Thiel Fellowship Applications Due by 12/31/12

The Thiel Fellowship is once again offering a "no-strings attached" grant of $100,000 to young people to "skip college and focus on their work, their research, and their self-education."  They are mentored and work together with other like-minded teens to see how STEM can change the world.  The areas in which projects are sought include biotech, genomics and synthetic biology, robotics, information and communications technology, aerospace, artificial intelligence, neurotech, nanotech, and medical devices.  Applicants must have been born after 31 December 1992, and should be interested in projects that are 2 to 10 years ahead of where current technology is in place.  For more information on the application process and experience as a Thiel Fellow, visit http://www.thielfellowship.org/become-a-fellow/about-the-program/ .

Engagement and Mentoring Keys to Successful STEM Education

Dr. Stephen Coan, President and CEO of Sea Research Foundation, in a recently-delivered speech at Fairfield's Sacred Heart University, advocated for "champion[ing] an interactive, real-world, mentor-based approach -- beginning in elementary school -- that models 21st century critical and creative thinking skills, energizes appreciation for STEM, and enriches students' knowledge about STEM careers" as part of education reform, as well as eliminating the "chutes and ladders approach" to placing students in math and science classes.  Dr. Coan pointed to innovative programs such as the JASON Project , which offers curricular resources, and the Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School as models.  By inspiring "STEM passion and achievement," the STEM workforce skills gap can be closed, according to Dr. Coan.  http://www.ctpost.com/opinion/article/STEM-mastery-The-ticket-to-reviving-education-3965060.php

In a related item, see Education Week's feature with guest blogger Dr. Linda Shore from the Exploratorium Teacher Institute at http://blogs.edweek.org/teachers/classroom_qa_with_larry_ferlazzo/2012/09/response_teaching_science_by_thinking_big_and_being_audacious.html

Infographic Celebrating "Ada Lovelace Day" for Women STEM Leaders

Forbes has posted an article and infographic on "Ada Lovelace Day" 16 October to celebrate the accomplishments of women STEM leaders.  "The goal of Ada Lovelace Day is to create new role models for girls and women in these male-dominated fields by raising the profile of other women in STEM."  http://www.forbes.com/sites/women2/2012/10/16/ada-lovelace-day-celebrating-technical-women-leaders-with-women-2-0/?goback=%2Egde_91778_member_176093474

BLS Data Shows More Advanced Math Coursework in High School

The Editor's Desk feature at the Bureau of Labor Statistics website today highlights data from National Longitudinal Surveys showing that high school graduates in the late 1990's and early 2000's tended to take more rigorous math courses than their predecessors from the mid- to late 1970's and early 1980's.  Eleven percent completed calculus and 24% completed pre-calculus, trigonometry, or other advanced math, compared to 2% and 8%, respectively, in the earlier years.  The advanced coursework completion was also correlated to a higher college attendance rate, jumping from 53% to 67% among that population.  http://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2012/ted_20121016.htm.  The full report comparing the two cohorts may be reviewed or downloaded from http://www.bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-1/pdf/a-comparison-of-college-attendance-and-high-school-coursework-from-two-cohorts-of-youth.pdf.

Change the Equation Initiative Releases 2012 "Vital Signs" STEM Report Cards

The national Change the Equation initiative has released its 2012 STEM "Vital Signs" report cards for the US.  Each state has a separate report card covering such topics as opportunities, pipeline, demand, expectations, teacher and student preparation, and recommendations.  Custom reports may also be created and reviewed.

California's report shows that the state is raising the bar by adopting the Common Core math standards, yet challenges due to funding cuts and achievement gaps for under-represented students persist.  Recommendations include requiring higher scores on math and science, aligning high school exit and college entrance requirements, and obtaining a higher return on investment for dollars put towards STEM efforts.  http://changetheequation.org/sites/default/files/vital-pdfs/CA-CTEq-vital-signs.pdf

California STEM Summit Held in San Diego 10/15-16/12

The California STEM Learning Network, along with industry partners, is sponsoring the California STEM Summit on 15-16 October 2012 in San Diego.  The keynote speakers include California Education Secretary Tom Torlakson, NBA great and new California STEM Ambassador Kareem Abdul Jabbar, David Seidel - NASA's Deputy Education Director, and Sugata Mitra - Newcastle University Professor of Education Technology.  They are joined by legislators, policymakers, business, industry and education leaders who will network to cover strands throughout the theme of "Transforming Ideas Into Action."  The sessions may be viewed through FORATV at http://www.castemsummit.com/tunein/ .  Follow the summit through tweets @CaSTEMLearning .

Former Lockheed CEO Calls for Increased STEM Education

Retired Lockheed Martin CEO, Norm Augustine, speaking at the Aviation and Aerospace Manufacturing Summit in Ft. Worth, TX last week, called upon industry and government to promote more STEM education in the US.  "Failure to do so . . . will undermine the U.S. economy, security and place as a world leader."  Competing with knowledge-based resources will be one way that the US can recover and retain primacy in the global marketplace, according to Augustine, who points the finger at US education and investments rather than China, saying, "we have met the enemy, and it is us."  http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/10/10/4326721/ex-lockheed-chief-invest-in-science.html

Read more here: http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/10/10/4326721/ex-lockheed-chief-invest-in-science.html#storylink=cpy

Samsung "Solve for Tomorrow" Technology Grant Applications Due by 10/31/12

Samsung Corporation is offering public schools in grades 6-12 the opportunity to win a technology package ranging from $40,000 to $110,000 for explaining how STEM can benefit their community and allow students to solve real-world problems.  Applications are due by 31 October 2012.  For more information about the "Solve for Tomorrow" grant and to apply, visit http://pages.samsung.com/us/sft/home.html

RCOE to Host Science Fair Expo on 10/13/12

Riverside County Office of Education will be hosting a half-day seminar on Saturday, 13 October 2012, for teachers and students on how to create winning science fair projects, and how to run and get volunteers for a successful science fair.  The event will be held from 9:00am to 1:00pm at the RCOE Conference Center, located at 3958 Twelfth St., Riverside.  For more information, please contact Yamileth Shimojyo at (951) 600-5658. 

MEEC Desert Studies Workshop and Scholarship Application Due by 10/11/12

Through the generosity of Boeing, scholarships will be available for 18 teachers to attend the Joshua Tree Desert Studies workshop on 3-4 November 2012.  Teachers will need to bring their own camera for the sessions in Joshua Tree National Park and Big Morongo Preserve; they will be housed at the Historic Joshua Tree Retreat Center.  Applications for the scholarship, which includes registration, curriculum materials, a $50 transportation stipend, and an autographed copy of David Lamfrom's "Tortoise Through the Lens  Book," are due to Christie Robinson at MEEC by no later than 5:00pm on Thursday, 11 October, 2012.  For more information and to download the application materials, visit http://www.meeconline.com/announcementapplication-for-2011-joshua-tree-desert-studies-scholarship/2012-application-for-joshua-tree-desert-studies-scholarship/ ; contact Christie at christier@mdaqmd.ca.gov or at (760) 245-1661 x 6101.

Update on 1/10/13:  The deadline to register has been extended to 6 March 2013 - please get in your applications now.

Update on 10/11/12:  The deadline to register has been extended to 5:00 pm on Monday, October 15, 2012.  Please make sure to get your application in to Christie Robinson!

Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award Nominations Due 1/14/13

NASA, along with the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and the Space Foundation, are accepting nominations of K-12 teachers and district-level personnel for the Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award.  "The Award recognizes outstanding contributions made by technology personnel or classroom teachers to technology education. The Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award rewards excellence in the development and delivery of technology programs. Programs which focus on aerospace and/or aeronautics will be given priority to other programs. Applicants must demonstrate how their programs ultimately benefit the students in a school or district."  The award, including a $1,000 grant, plaque, and travel to the conference, will be conferred at a ceremony in April 2013 in Colorado Springs, CO.  Nominations (by school principals or district leaders) for the award are due by no later than 14 January 2013.  For more information, please visit http://www.amfcse.org/alan_shepard_award/default.html .

Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program Application Period Open

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program allows high school students to study for 8 continuous weeks during the summer at a Department of the Navy lab, including receiving a stipend.  Participating labs in California are located in Corona, Monterey, and San Diego.  The program is designed to encourage students to pursue a career in science and engineering disciplines.  The application for summer 2013 and further information, including eligibility requirements, is available at http://seap.asee.org/. 

MIT + Reality TV + Gaming = STEM Interest

The Boston Globe reports that MIT, in another venture to stimulate student interest in STEM subjects, is creating a video series entitled "ChemLab Boot Camp," styled after reality TV show models; the show is designed to humanize scientists and showcase the "messy," creative nature of applied science.  Another MIT group, assisted by funding from the Gates Foundation, is working on a new on-line game called "The Radix Endeavor," where a villain named Cyril attempts to keep all scientific knowledge to himself; players must solve problems with math and science knowledge.  http://articles.boston.com/2012-09-03/business/33547143_1_online-games-high-school-students-show-teens/2

MEEC Environmental Education Mini-Grant Applications Due by 10/31/12

Mojave Environmental Education Consortium is offering educators mini-grants of approximately $100 to $500 to fund environmental education projects in their classroom.  Projects must be purchased and completed prior to 18 June 2013.  Applications are due by no later than 31 October 2012.  For more information on eligibility requirements and the application/proposal process, visit http://www.meeconline.com/need-for-an-ee-project/ .

2nd Annual AV Science Olympiad/Bohn-Meyer Math Science Odyssey Coaches' Info Meeting 9/19

A coaches' informational meeting for the Bohn-Meyer Math Science Odyssey/2nd annual AV Science Olympiad will be held on Wednesday, 19 September 2012, from 3:30 to 5:00pm, at Antelope Valley College Health Science 217.  The event, for local middle school teams, is scheduled to take place in mid-March 2013, and will involve competitions in a variety of STEM-related subjects.  For more information and to reserve a spot to attend the meeting, contact Jamie Jones at hsistemcoop@gmail.com or 661.722.6300 x 6024 by no later than Friday, 14 September 2012.  To see information from last year's event, visit www.avc.edu/academics/titlev/science.html .

PlayMaker School Opens in Los Angeles

Funded in part through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and using games and tools from GameDesk, the PlayMaker school was scheduled to open on 7 September 2012 as part of a school-within-a-school at New Roads independent middle school.  Sixty 6th graders will take part in learning using games such as MathMaker, Motion Math-in-Class, and others.  http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2012/09/a-new-game-based-school-opens/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+kqed%2FnHAK+%28MindShift%29

AVC/CSULB Engineering Pathways Orientation Set for 9/11/12

Remember to attend the AVC/CSULB Engineering Pathways orientation at Antelope Valley College on Tuesday, 11 September 2012, from 5:30 to 7:00pm PDT at Antelope Valley College, Student Services (SSV) Room 151.  Faculty and staff from the AV Engineering Programs and partners will be on-hand to answer questions about preparation, admissions, and the local degree-completion program.

AV YELC Applications Due 9/11

Just a reminder that your Antelope Valley Youth Environmental Leadership Conference - STEM Service Learning - applications and student materials are due to Christie Robinson at MEEC by no later than 5:00pm PDT on Tuesday, 11 September 2012.  Please see earlier post here on 31 July for more details (extended deadline).

MEEC Enviro-Bus Bucks Grant Applications Due by 10/30/12

Mojave Environmental Education Consortium's annual Enviro-Bus Bucks Grant applications are now available, with the submission deadline of no later than 30 October 2012.  Funds are available for environmentally-themed field trips for educators within MEEC's High Desert (California) service area.  Winners will be notified by 15 November 2012.  For more information on grant requirements and to submit your on-line application, go to http://www.meeconline.com/teachers/busbuck/ .

Green Convergence "Going Green" Art Contest and Scholarship Deadline 9/14/12

A "Going Green" art contest is available to students in grades 4 through 12.  Entries using traditional media on 8.5 x 11-inch to 11 x 17-inch paper are due to Green Convergence at 28490 Westinghouse Place, #160, Valencia, CA 91355, by no later than 14 September 2012.  Three scholarships will be awarded to winners, one each in the 9-12th grade, 7-8th grade, and 4-6th grade categories; winners will also ride in a parade on 22 September 2012 in Acton-Agua Dulce.  For more information about the competition and eligibility requirements, visit http://greenconvergence.com/promos/students-enter-our-go-green-art-contest.

Shuttle Endeavour Fly-Out Celebration 9/17/12

NASA's Digital Learning Network will host a webcast on Monday, 17 September 2012, beginning at 10:00am PDT, featuring Rachel Power and Joshua Santora from Kennedy Space Center, JPL staff, and others, to launch the "fly-out" of Space Shuttle Endeavour on its final 747 ferry flight to the Los Angeles area.  According to local news reports, Endeavour is expected to make a fly-over of its birthplace in the Antelope Valley prior to heading to the California Science Center.  In order to get more information and to view the broadcast, visit http://dln.nasa.gov .

Update:  Low-level flyovers of the AV by Space Shuttle Endeavour are scheduled for the morning of 20 September 2012, according to The AV Times on 9/7/12.  The 747 and Endeavour are scheduled to land at NASA Dryden on the afternoon of 19 September, before heading to LAX on 9/20.

NASA Broadcasts Set For 9/13/12

NASA, along with Space Adventures and YouTube, will be broadcasting Astronaut Sunita Williams aboard the International Space Station conducting live experiments submitted by students from around the globe; Bill Nye, the Science Guy, will conduct an interview in Google + Hangout as part of the 40-minute program.  To view the feed, please connect to http://www.youtube.com/spacelab beginning at 7:30am PDT on Thursday, 13 September 2012. 

A second 90-minute webinar on Newton's Laws of Motion: Lunar Nautics is also scheduled for 13 September 2012 beginning at 3:30pm PDT.  Three lessons for grades 5-8 will be provided to educators, including Rocket Staging, Balloon Staging, and Lunar Landing: Swinging Tray and Egg Drop.  For more information and to register for the session, go to http://learningcenter.nsta.org/products/symposia_seminars/NES3/webseminar1.aspx .

"You Can't Graduate Them If You Don't Admit Them" Webinar 9/14/12

WEPAN is sponsoring a free webinar regarding women in engineering majors on Friday, 14 September 2012.  The session, entitled "You Can't Graduate Them If You Don't Admit Them" is set for 10:00am PDT, and will be moderated by Beth Holloway, PK Imbrie, and Terri Reed-Rhoads from Purdue University, who will speak to statistical models regarding potential gender bias in admissions criteria and how to address it.  For more information and to register for the webinar, please visit https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/335880480 .  The PowerPoint presentation will be posted before the webinar (and a recording of the webinar thereafter) at http://www.wepan.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=15 .

Boosting Under-represented Populations in STEM

According to the NAPE STEM Equity Pipeline Press, Sen. Mary Landrieu (LA), has introduced new legislation aiming to boost the participation of women and minorities in STEM fields, through the authorization of additional National Science Foundation grants.  The "Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act of 2012" (S. 3475) was introduced on 1 August 2012.

Additionally, Google is working to increase the numbers of females in high-tech jobs in the Silicon Valley.  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/23/technology/in-googles-inner-circle-a-falling-number-of-women.html?_r=2&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20120823

Finally, the Huffington Post's David Goldberg and Mark Somerville discuss the variety of diversity that is necessary to make engineering creative and innovative for future global needs, as well as how to address the diversity gap in engineering education.  Part of the solution appears to be the message about what engineering really involves, thus making it attractive to many more potential engineers.  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-goldberg/engineering-education-reform-_b_1826537.html

AVC STEM Grant to Present at STEMtech Conference

Representatives from the Antelope Valley College STEM Grant partnership, including AVC Professor Tooraj Gordi and AVUHSD Math and Science Curriculum Coordinator, Dr. Cindy Hendrix, will present regarding the innovative S-MAP (Senior Math Acceleration and Preparation) course at the STEMtech Conference in Kansas City in October.  To learn more about the conference, visit http://www.league.org/2012stemtech/ .

California and Kentucky Communities Models for STEM Education

Vince Bertram, in the US News "STEM Education" blog, cites industry and education partnerships in California and Kentucky as models of the way that STEM education can be operated, resulting in success for students.  Chevron's California Partnership, Project Lead the Way, and Linking Education and Economic Development "are working together to address the STEM jobs gap in California."  Likewise, "Toyota, Bluegrass Community and Technical College, the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers, and PLTW present another example of a scalable solution addressing the STEM education and workforce needs of Kentucky."  http://www.usnews.com/news/blogs/stem-education/2012/08/15/industry-educators-build-in-roads-to-stem-success

Chevron Engineering Design Challenge

New video has been posted about the Chevron Engineering Design Challenge which took place at Bakersfield High School in March 2012; the event is part of Chevron's California Partnership with Project Lead the Way.  Chevron Engineering Design Challenge - Bakersfield

SF Toy Company Aims to Increase Girls' STEM Interest

Founded by Bettina Chen, Jennifer Kessler, and Alice Brooks, engineering students at Stanford University, a student start-up, Maykah, is creating toys designed to increase girls' interest in STEM.  Their first effort is "Roominate," a dollhouse kit which the youngsters construct, including lighting circuit boards, and then decorate.  The toy has been tested with focus groups and at the San Francisco Children's Creativity Museum; it has received crowd-financing and orders from around the globe.  Shipments of the dollhouse are expected to begin in a few months.  http://www.sfgate.com/technology/article/Maykah-builds-girls-interest-in-science-3793765.php

11/10/12 Update:  See a similar story regarding "GoldieBlox" toys headed by Debra Sterling, also a Stanford engineer.  http://www.forbes.com/sites/siliconangle/2012/10/15/women-engineers/ 

New STEM-Focused High School Opens in San Bernardino

According to the Riverside Press-Enterprise, Indian Springs High School in San Bernardino opened last week with a focus on STEM and career academies.  The site will use a block schedule and other facilities modeling a community college campus to prepare students for post-secondary life.  The campus is being re-purposed from a middle school, and could eventually house up to 2,700 students at maximum capacity.  http://www.pe.com/local-news/san-bernardino-county/san-bernardino-county-headlines-index/20120817-san-bernardino-new-high-school-opens.ece

LEGO Mindstorm Workshop at AERO Institute 8/22/12

The AERO Institute in Palmdale (38256 Sierra Highway) is providing a free workshop from 4:00 to 7:30pm on Wednesday, 22 August 2012, for middle school students aged 9-14 years, accompanied by a parent, on LEGO Mindstorm robotics.  The objective is to train both with the aim of beginning a LEGO Robotics team.  Those interested in participating should e-mail the names of the attendees, student age, phone number, and e-mail address to Cecilia Cordova at cecilia.cordova@nasa.gov; contact Cecilia with questions at 661.276.3266.

Parent Roadmaps to the Common Core Math Standards

The Council of Great City Schools has published Parent Roadmaps to the Common Core standards; the roadmaps lay out how parents can support their students in math from kindergarten through eighth grades.  Guides are also posted for English Language Arts.  For more information, visit Parent Roadmaps to Common Core Standards .

Siemens Math, Science & Technology Competition Entries Due 10/1/12

Team and individual registration for the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology opened 1 May 2012, and the deadline for entries is 1 October 2012.  High school students' entries are initially "blind read" by  panels of judges with experience in the field of the entry; up to 300 projects are chosen as semi-finalists, and up to 30 teams and 30 individual students are selected to go on to regional competitions, including one at Cal Tech in Pasadena (9-10 November 2012).  Regional competitors must do a presentation regarding their project and respond to judging panels' questions; each receives a bronze medal and a $1,000 scholarship.  Regional winners receive a $3,000 scholarship along with a silver medal and advance to the national finals in Washington, D.C.  For more information on the competition, eligibility requirements, and registration, visit Siemens Math Science & Technology Competition 2012 .

Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education Offered Teacher Internships

For the 28th year, the Industry Initiative for Science and Math Education (IISME) in the Silicon Valley offered 165 teachers summer internships to learn how STEM principles taught in the classroom are actually applied, as well as stipends to create new STEM lesson plans that are actually implemented.  A few were available in Southern California. 

Teachers are "paired with universities and tech companies [such as Agilent and Nvidia] in the valley to give [them] a chance to see how principles and ideas they teach in the classroom are translated into real world products and initiatives."    "Kids are really inspired by teachers who have experienced the practical applications and who have worked side-by-side with scientists and engineers who can give them authentic stories," Jennifer Bruckner, IISME Executive Director, says.  http://www.mercurynews.com/mike-cassidy/ci_21273923/cassidy-nvidia-agilent-and-other-silicon-valley-tech

Similar opportunities have been provided to teachers locally in the Antelope Valley, notably in the last several years by the Air Force Research Lab at Edwards Air Force Base.

"Moms' Night Out for STEM" Webinar Scheduled 8/28/12

The STEM Equity Pipeline is hosting a free webinar event on 28 August 2012 at 10:00am PDT entitled "Moms' Night Out for STEM."  The webinar, moderated by Dr. Jeffery Weld and Linda Bisgaard from Iowa, is designed to provide suggestions on how to mobilize the community, particularly moms, to motivate children to study and pursue STEM subjects.  To find out more and to register, visit Moms Night Out for STEM Registration .

Latina Astronaut Candidate Working on NASA Projects

Dr. Yajaira Sierra-Sastre, an applicant for a new astronaut position, is working on several projects for NASA, including a four-month stint in a planetary module to simulate life on Mars, developing better astronaut cuisine, and working with the Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) program.  Dr. Sierra-Sastre, who is currently a lecturer at Cornell University and an outreach specialist to Puerto Rican school districts, was a panelist at the Latino Leadership's Latino Family Conference in Florida, with an aim at increasing the number of Latino and Hispanic students entering STEM fields.  According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2006 Hispanics received only 6 percent of STEM degrees, and 3.5 percent of master's degrees.  http://nbclatino.com/2012/08/02/aspiring-puerto-rican-woman-astronaut-on-a-mission-to-inspire/

According to a recent "Excelencia in Education!" report, the majority of STEM degrees granted to Latinos come in six states, including Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada and Texas.  Excelencia in Education "Finding Your Workforce" Report .

Declining Percentage of Women Entering Computer Science Majors

Despite being sought-after in technology careers due to their team and project-management skills, a declining percentage of women are entering computer science majors.  The number has reduced since 1984, with a current rate of 13%.  Growth in technology jobs is expected to be high over the next six years; an NSF grant is targeting increasing the numbers of females pursuing computer careers.  http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/jobs/chi-women-bridge-computerscience-gap-20120803,0,659958.story  Perhaps the recent appointment of Marissa Mayer as the new "top geek" at Yahoo will bring renewed attention to this pathway for young women.  http://edition.cnn.com/2012/07/16/tech/web/marissa-mayer-bio/index.html?hpt=hp_bn5 .

Raytheon's "MathMovesU" Site Provides Resources

Raytheon's "MathMovesU" site, primarily targeted at the middle school age bracket, has math games, worksheets, and other classroom resources, as well as student scholarship and teacher grant applications.  It also provides links to other initiatives.  Visit at MathMovesU .

Science of the Summer Olympics

As an update to the 3/16/12 post here about "Pizza, Pi and Pucks," the NBC network, in partnership with the National Science Foundation, has added to its "NBC Learn" features to include the "Science of the Summer Olympics."  As of this post, ten videos are posted on such subjects as "Designing Safety Helmets" for boxing, "Designing a Fast Pool" and "Fluid Dynamics" on swimming, and "Engineering for Mobility" on para-olympics; some math topics are also incorporated.  Lesson plans are expected to be posted in August. Visit the link at NBC Science of the Summer Olympics .

Google RISE Award Applications Due 9/30/12

The Google RISE (Roots in Science and Engineering) Award applications are now available and are due by no later than 30 September 2012.  Designed to inspire increased K-12 and university participation in STEM and/or computer science, the awards range from $5,000 to $25,000.  For further information on eligibility requirements and the application, visit http://www.google.com/edu/rise/index.html .

Data On STEM Student Performance

The US Department of Education's "Data Dashboard" contains charts, detail, and reports regarding STEM performance both as a nation, and with state comparisons.  For example, the data tends to show that the percentage of bachelor's degrees conferred in STEM fields has declined by 1.2% from 1998-1999 to 2008-2009, while it has declined .8% in California during the same time period.  California currently ranks in the bottom third of states in this category.  For more information and to view this set of data indicators, visit US ED Data Dashboard STEM Degrees .

Additionally, the Center for American Progress has recently released a report following up on the NAEP's Student Report Card, including results related to math and science study.  The report discusses the fact that many students do not feel challenged in their math or science courses, do not understand what their math or science teachers are asking them in class, and do not routinely write long assignments for school.  Recommendations include mandating more rigorous standards for students to meet, as well as providing more rigorous learning activities.  To read or download the full report, see Do Schools Challenge Our Students?

Teachers Participate in San Diego Project Lead the Way Training

KPBS education reporter Kyla Calvert filed a story about approximately 20 high school teachers from states ranging from Alaska to Florida attending the Project Lead the Way (c) Summer Training Institute at San Diego State University in late July.  Among them were teachers from Quartz Hill and Palmdale High Schools locally, who will go back to their classrooms and facilitate the Introduction to Engineering Design courses.  Professor Bruce Westermo of SDSU cited the need for California to grow the STEM students and workforce, which PLTW is suited to do through project-based learning.  http://www.kpbs.org/news/2012/jul/23/summer-training-prepares-teachers-inspire-future-e/

Teachers Participate in STEM Service Learning Institute

According to the Contra Costa Times, approximately 150 Southern California teachers from 30 districts recently participated in a free three-day STEM Service Learning Institute held in San Bernardino.  Led by USC Professor Robert de Groot, some of the teachers took a geology walk above CSU San Bernardino to learn about plate tectonics as compared to taking apart an Oreo cookie.  Other presenters included staff from South Coast AQMD, Indio high school students, UC Davis's Afterschool Network program director, and NASA/JPL Educator Resource Center in Pomona.  http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_21102840/teachers-learn-about-science-earthquakes-at-cal-state 

STEM Master Teacher Corps On the Horizon

Jason Koebler reported in the US News and World Report that The White House announced the availability of a grant opportunity in mid-July as part of the Teacher Incentive Fund application for districts to create a STEM Master Teacher Corps.  Among other requirements, the grant provided that teachers, who could receive up to $20,000 annual compensation over four years, have to teach in designated high-need schools; the district would be required to change teacher compensation and evaluation systems district-wide, and determine new teacher recruitment and retention strategies.  http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2012/07/18/white-house-announces-1-billion-master-teacher-program

How to Increase Numbers of STEM Students

Rodney C. Adkins, Sr. VP of IBM's Systems and Technology Group, recently wrote a piece in Forbes about three ways to increase the number of STEM students in the US to keep pace with attrition and to fuel economic growth.  First, public-private partnerships can create and maintain the enthusiasm of students in STEM subjects through mentorships and assisting in early-college high school or dual enrollment programs.  Second, more under-represented students, such as females and students of color, need to be included in the STEM pipeline through continued public and private initiatives.  Finally, students need local role models to work with and encourage them to succeed.  Forbes - America Needs More STEM Students .

In a similar vein, Alicia Abella of AT&T Labs addresses the same type of issues regarding the need to promote STEM majors and careers to women.  See her recent interview by Katy Hopkins in US News and World Report at http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2012/07/10/how-to-encourage-women-to-consider-stem-majors. 

Regarding Adkins's final point, results from a recent study by the University of Wisconsin indicate that parents can play a pivotal role in having their students take more advanced math and science classes; the study provided additional materials to some parents of 10th graders - the children of those who received the materials took more courses than those who didn't.  http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/education/extra-credit/extra-credit-teach-your-children-well-about-stem/article_c734cd64-cb87-11e1-8bea-0019bb2963f4.html .