STEM Bridges: Evolution of an Academic Library STEM Outreach Program. Issue 8 (17th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Flash, Kenya; Allen, Melanie; Mack, Thura; Clement, Kristina
• Is Part Of: Journal of library administration. Volume 57:Issue 8(2017)
• Page Start: 879
• Page End: 890
• Publication Date: 2017-11-17
• Subjects: STEM -- outreach -- academic libraries -- secondary education -- preparedness -- information literacy -- career planning -- community partnership -- program review; Library administration -- Periodicals; 025.1
• DOI: 10.1080/01930826.2017.1374105
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0193-0826

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Big Orange STEM Saturday (BOSS) is a sustainable model of outreach that fosters the STEM cycle of discovery and learning experiences. Through this program, the library creates and reinforces a bridge between secondary educational experiences and higher education that facilitates the transfer of knowledge from the classroom to the world. Local high school students are able to engage with experts in several different ways to explore what STEM has to offer and to look beyond their current experiences. This approach creates a venue for STEM teaching spaces outside the school classroom for enrichment and innovation. Over the past 5 years, the variety of experiences offered at BOSS have expanded and the reputation of the program has grown. This article explores the challenges, lessons, and impact that this program has had on its constituents, with a particular focus on the impact the library can have when exploring nontraditional areas of support and outreach.