STEM Programs in Out-of-School Settings and STEAM Videos

[Laura Guertin]

The National Academies has released a new report, "Identifying and Supporting Productive STEM Programs in Out-of-School Settings." The report emphasizes the importance of continuing STEM education through out-of-school programs. The report found that effective out-of-school STEM programs can promote an interest in and an understanding of STEM, create positive relationships with adults who serve as role models, and reduce the achievement gap between young people from low-income and high-income families. The report was accompanied by a webinar, in which members of the Boys and Girls Clubs and the Afterschool Alliance argued for more awareness of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) programs.

 

STEAM is the integration of arts with STEM education. Boys and Girls Clubs are especially encouraging such integration, creating videos and other projects combining STEM education and artistic expression. Tony Small, the regional artistic and STEAM director for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, D. C., has been promoting the public use of his students' projects to help others learn and discover their passion for STEM topics. Visit his website to explore hundreds of STEAM songs, skits, and musicals.