Overview and Key Findings from the Science Fairs Under the ‘Scope Study

We collected data from middle school science fairs held in schools across the country to understand:

1. What are the basic models and elements of middle school science fairs;
2. If and how science fairs increase students’ interest in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) and/or STEM careers
3. If and how participation in select models of middle school science fairs enhance students’ mastery of the science and engineering practices; and
4. What costs and resources are required to implement an effective middle school science fair?