Click2Science
Connecting with Community Partners,
2 Hours

 

Out-of-school time programs strengthen STEM learning by developing and deepening relationships with community partners. STEM-rich industries, interested academic and community-based STEM organizations bring expertise and creativity to school-age science, technology, engineering, and math efforts. Learn how to go beyond simply completing a joint project to building a relationship with stakeholders. Review model programs, practitioner advice, planning guides and a simple STEM activity.

 

Lesson information

In this module you will read information based on current research You will view video scenarios from real practitioners in out-of school time programs. You will also complete activities and handouts throughout the module that help you apply the information to your out-of-school time program. Be sure to take notes as you work on this skill.

As you work through this module there are handouts to download and print. The handouts contain activities, additional ways to enhance learning, information to share with colleagues or parents, and strategies to apply what you learned to your out-of-school time program.


Objectives

• Know the levels of STEM partnerships—ways to move beyond a simple project to collaboration.

• Identify STEM-rich businesses, industries, and community-based organizations/departments with whom the      OST program can partner.

• Evaluate current STEM partnerships based on quality partnership indicators.

• Describe ways to facilitate positive STEM experiences with partners and support STEM experts who may need extra guidance as they engage and manage groups of school-age youth.


A quality school-age program nurtures reciprocal relationships with STEM-rich institutions to further its capacity to meet the needs and interests of the children and families that it serves.​