Outcome 6.1: STEM Student Retention

Improve retention of students in STEM disciplines by providing opportunities and activities along the full length of the education pipeline.

Other Information:

Education and industry experts have long warned our national leaders of an impending crisis in STEM education. Persistent calls to action warn us that failure to build a future workforce proficient in STEM will have adverse impacts on the economic growth and global competitiveness of the United States. International assessments consistently show that the performance of American students is lagging behind that of other nations. As part of the national imperative to encourage students to pursue STEM studies and the myriad career opportunities that could be open to them, we will continue our efforts to help inspire the passion and creative potential of our students. We employ education specialists at each NASA Center to work with local and regional constituents, customers, and industry partners to best map resources and opportunities that meet the needs of the education community. This distributed management system allows us to be responsive to national priorities and initiatives, such as “Race to the Top” and “Educate to Innovate,” while maintaining flexibility in delivering products and services to teachers and students. Our specialists work directly with elementary and secondary educators through local and national education organizations. In those interactions, elementary, secondary, and informal educators learn how to translate our current research and technology advances into meaningful education experiences that inspire their students. At the elementary and secondary school levels, we actively encourage students to think positively about STEM as they develop their knowledge, skills, and long-term career interests. At the undergraduate and graduate levels, we work hand-in-hand with colleges and universities to provide student research and engineering experiences that contribute to our missions. To ensure that beneficiaries of our Agency-funded educational programs are afforded equal opportunities, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, or disability, we conduct compliance reviews and offer support and strategies to improve access.

Stakeholder(s):

• STEM Students

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

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