Afterschool STEM Programs

Module 1

Outside-of-School Experiences Increase Children’s Interest in STEM

Chapter 1

Why Are Afterschool STEM Programs Important?
How Can Afterschool Programs Spark STEM Interest?
How Can Afterschool Programs Increase Equitable Access to STEM?
What Are Key Aspects of STEM Learning?

Practical Considerations for Facilitating Hands-on STEM

Chapter 2

Effective Ways to Prepare for Afterschool STEM Lessons
How to Use Media During Afterschool STEM Activities
When Should I Give Learners Access to Materials?

Lesson Cycles that Facilitate STEM Inquiry Afterschool

Chapter 3

Lesson Cycle Steps:
- Step 1: What Are Some Effective Ways to Introduce STEM Lessons?
- Step 2: How Can You Model and Explain the Lesson Concepts?
- Step 3: How Can You Effectively Guide Learner Practice?
- Step 4: What Are Some Effective Ways to Summarize and Close Lessons?
What Is Scaffolding and Why Is It Important?
How Can Educators Use Scaffolding Strategies in Afterschool STEM Programs?
What Are Some Common Misconceptions in Science & Math Likely to Require Scaffolding?

Family Engagement in STEM

Chapter 4

How Can Caregiver-Child Conversations Improve Learning?
How Can Caregivers Extend Learning at Home?
How Can Educators & Families Work to Open Pathways to STEM?

Conclusion

Children spend up to 80% of their time in informal learning environments like home, afterschool and summer programs or libraries, museums, or science centers. So, afterschool experiences are a powerful time to spark children’s interest in STEM. Consider ways that you can use these evidence-based practices to spark an early interest in STEM that will last a lifetime.