Lauren Miller, Lancaster STEM Alliance

The Lancaster County STEM Alliance focuses on four key priority areas: K-12 in-school project-based learning (PBL); career exploration; out of school STEM learning; and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belongingin STEM. PBL is an instructional approach that engages students in authentic and relevant projects, promoting active learning and student empowerment. This instructional method develops the skills and mindset essential for future career success, emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem solving abilities. When business and community input is integrated into PBL, it serves to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Participating in career exploration, including experiences like work-based learning, enables individuals to investigate a diverse range of careers. This exploration fosters awareness of career opportunities and provides insights into the skills, and experiences essential for success in those fields. Out-of-school STEM learning refers to educational activities and experiences that take place outside the traditional school environment, such as after-school programs, summer camps, and community-based events. Out-of-school STEM learning is crucial in providing diverse and enriching experiences that complement traditional classroom instruction, deepen students’ comprehension of STEM subjects, cultivate a passion for learning, and equip them for future educational and career pursuits in STEM fields