4-H STEM Curriculum Challenges: A Delphi study

Authors

  • Hannah Branscum Oklahoma State University, 4-H Youth Development
  • Jeff Sallee Oklahoma State University, 4-H Youth Development
  • Kevin Allen Oklahoma State University, Natural Resources, Ecology, and Management
  • Marshall A. Baker Collegiate Edu-Nation
  • Samantha Blackwell Oklahoma State University, Agricultural Education, Communications, and Leadership

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2020.823

Keywords:

STEM, curriculum, Delphi, challenges

Abstract

Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills have become essential for today’s youth. STEM-literate individuals are a necessity to fill the ever-growing STEM employment pipeline. Employers are expecting applicants with STEM skills. 4-H programs across the nation have recognized the importance of educating STEM-minded youth. As STEM programs become more prevalent within 4-H, it is essential to address challenges Extension educators and 4-H volunteers face when teaching STEM curriculum. In this study the Delphi technique was utilized to collect the opinions of a geographically dispersed group of 4-H Extension educators and volunteers. Each group served on a separate panel and were asked the question, “What challenges do you face when teaching STEM curriculum?” After three rounds of study, both the educator and volunteer panels identified 2 challenges faced when teaching STEM curriculum. Through identification of these challenges, Oklahoma state 4-H staff can better address the professional development needs of educators and volunteers within the organization, and support the desired scientific literacy outcomes of 4-H youth.

Author Biography

Jeff Sallee, Oklahoma State University, 4-H Youth Development

Dr. Jeff Sallee serves as an associate professor specializing in 4-H STEM programming for the Oklahoma 4-H youth development program, Oklahoma State University, Agricultural Education, Communication and Leadership department. Since 1991, Sallee has been dedicated to Extension and 4-H programs in Arkansas, Georgia and Oklahoma. Sallee focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and has been successful at implementing service learning by applying youth voice and inquiry based educational techniques to integrate STEM elements into the Oklahoma 4-H program. Sallee has proved to be successful at incorporating STEM curriculum and programming into Oklahoma counties to develop educational projects and demonstrations, including robotics, water conservation, geospatial science, and digital media.

 

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Published

2020-09-22

Issue

Vol. 15 No. 5 (2020)

Section

Research & Evaluation Studies

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