The National CSTEM Challenge is designed to connect three levels (elementary, middle, and high) of basic education providing feeder pattern schools with a project that allows them to work collaboratively on problem-solving. The CSTEM Challenge integrates communication, science, technology, engineering, mathematics (CSTEM), social studies and art through an essential theme, Everyone is an Artist and an Engineer. Further, this project provides students with opportunities to see how their work affects all aspects of life, including endangered wildlife, and teaching the students about environmental stewardship.
The CSTEM feeder pattern model assist schools in developing a pipeline of students highly motivated and prepared for higher level learning in related areas by:
Increasing students interest in math and science;
Building capacity and sustaining hands-on, project-based, problem-based learning through the continued implementation of CSTEM pedagogy;
Engaging minority, at-risk, socio-economically disadvantaged, gifted and talented, and underrepresented students in CSTEM projects that improves their academic performance and develops them socially and emotionally, a formula that assist in reducing the achievement gap;
Developing team building skills and providing mentoring opportunities;
Providing a platform for teachers to put into practice project-based learning that allow students to experience learning through real-life application and competition;
Providing an opportunity for teachers and students to learn the global impact of their work;
Providing tools and resources that enrich curriculum by adding the WOW factor, magic, mystery, purpose, relevance, and higher level thinking to classrooms;
Developing a network within feeder pattern schools that creates stronger learning communities of high achieving students prepared for post-secondary education and the workforce in related STEM fields.
In the end we are one world and one community. It is our responsibility to prepare our future!
The 2010 CSTEM Challenge Categories: