ERIC Number: EJ1456195
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: EISSN-2475-8779
Exploring STEM Cells: A Hands-On Approach to Elementary STEM Education
Connected Science Learning, v6 n6 p269-280 2024
The Joint Educational Project's (JEP) STEM Education Programs at the University of Southern California (USC) present an elementary-level curriculum centered on the science of stem cells in partnership with Dr. Adam MacLean, an Assistant Professor of Quantitative and Computational Biology at USC for the broader impacts of a National Science Foundation grant. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields are exciting but often opaque to those outside of them -- this barrier can be challenged through the implementation of lessons designed in collaboration with scientists for use with elementary-aged children to allow them to engage with current research topics. Dr. MacLean's research focuses on computational models of adult stem cells responsible for the process of renewing organs over time in all animals. The curriculum described herein consists of four lesson plans developed from the methods and results of Dr. MacLean's research, and is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards for 4th grade. It was piloted both virtually and in-person through the JEP STEM Education Program's WonderKids after-school program in Fall 2022, and in five 4th grade classrooms through the JEP STEM Education Program's Young Scientists Program in Spring 2024.
Descriptors: STEM Education, Elementary Education, Cytology, Biology, Science Education, After School Programs, Science Activities, Computer Simulation, Educational Games, Student Diversity, Student Needs
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF), Division of Mathematical Sciences (DMS)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: California
Grant or Contract Numbers: 2045327