Learn more about what’s next in informal STEM. We will continue to feature new and creative research and programs, exciting stories, big picture thinking, news, and STEM systems.
Expanding Access and Inclusion in STEM through Culturally Responsive Family Engagement
Read moreIn this Case Study, Drs. Sammet and Kekelis highlight best practices and lessons learned from two programs - Techbridge Girls and Code Next - that serve commun…
How a Library’s Making Program Empowers Mothers and Daughters
Read morePublic libraries have a unique opportunity to expand the reach of STEM. “Public libraries provide a ‘third space’ beyond the formal classroom and home that can…
After Hour of Code™: Family Engagement Maintains the Momentum
Read moreComputer Science Education Week aims to inspire K-12 students in computer science. Held the second week of December in honor of the birthday of Admiral Grace M…
Promising Practice for Engaging Families: Spotlight 08
Read moreA workshop that gives families a chance to connect over coding or persevere through an engineering design challenge is a great first step in family engagement …
Promising Practice for Engaging Families: Spotlight 07
Read moreParents can play an important role in supporting their children’s learning and pathways with technology. However, when programs have a family element, it often…
Promising Practice for Engaging Families: Spotlight 06
Read moreFrom preventing summer learning loss to promoting engagement in STEM, there is abundant research that parents play an important role in their children’s academ…
The Role of Books and Reading in STEM: An Overview of the Benefits for Children and the Opportunities to Enhance the field
Read moreSTEM Next and The Molina Foundation, have extensive experience working with early childhood centers, after-school programs and K-12 campuses throughout the nat…
Promising Practice for Engaging Families: Spotlight 05
Read moreGirls don’t start out with less interest in STEM. In preschool, they are curious, bold in their actions, and filled with dreams. Yet, by age six, girls are les…
Promising Practice for Engaging Families: Spotlight 04
Read moreFamily STEM night. Check. While it’s great to host a celebration so that parents can see what their children have accomplished in an afterschool program or sum…
Afterschool STEM programs inspire kids to keep learning
Read moreAt an after-school STEM club in Rhode Island, students are working on an engineering challenge. The low-stakes, fun environment offers time for exploration.