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Peer-reviewed article

Improving Access to Hands-on STEM Education using a Mobile Laboratory

April 1, 2018 | Public Programs, Informal/Formal Connections
Schools often have limited resources to devote to science education, which can impact student interest in and preparedness for careers in STEM. Seattle Children’s Research Institute created the Science Adventure Lab, a mobile laboratory program, to support and enrich science education at low-resource schools and stimulate interest in science and pursuing a career in STEM. The mobile laboratory provides students with the unique opportunity to fully immerse themselves in authentic, hands-on science learning with scientists. This limits the burden on school resources and reduces disruptions to daily schedules since students do not leave their schools. These positive science experiences at an early age allow students to learn important science concepts and have the potential to significantly impact students’ interest in pursuing STEM careers. In this report we describe our mobile laboratory, operating model, and curriculum, as well as the positive impacts, strengths, and challenges of the approach as a resource for other groups who may wish to use a similar strategy for STEM education outreach in their communities

TEAM MEMBERS

  • William H Roden
    Author
    Science Education Department, Seattle Children's Research Institute
  • REVISE logo
    Author
    TEALS
  • Rebecca A Carter
    Author
    Science Education Department, Seattle Children's Research Institute
  • Mark Ruffo
    Author
    Landesa Rural Development Institute
  • Amanda L Jones
    Author
    Science Education Department, Seattle Children's Research Institute
  • Citation

    DOI : 10.15695/jso.v1i2.4550
    Publication Name: Journal of STEM Outreach
    Volume: 1
    Number: 2
    Page Number: 61-70
    Discipline: Chemistry | General STEM | Life science
    Audience: Elementary School Children (6-10) | Middle School Children (11-13)
    Environment Type: Community Outreach Programs | Informal/Formal Connections | K-12 Programs
    Access and Inclusion: Low Socioeconomic Status | Urban

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