Many jobs of the future will involve science, technology, engineering, and
math, but how can we expect our students to go into careers as mechanical
engineers, environmental scientists, or computer programmers when they’ve never
met the people who have these jobs? Students might not even realize that they
have career options in STEM fields. Introduce your students to the numerous STEM
careers available by connecting them to actual STEM professionals who can act as
role models and career mentors, showing students how their school work applies
to the world and their future job opportunities.
Discover how to make these connections using technology such as
videoconferencing and web 2.0 tools. In Connecting Students to STEM,
author Camille Cole shows you ways to find STEM professionals around the world
who are willing to interact with your students. She explains how to set up
programs that give students the opportunity to engage in real-world learning
experiences and how to tap into current programs. Through this authentic
engagement your students will find their STEM education to be more rewarding and
relevant to their lives, leading many to develop an interest in STEM
careers.