The AdvancEd STEM Certification process and Student Growth Model have been developed and implemented less than two years ago in Georgia to address the lack of focus and accountability on STEM education in Georgia. The research problem for this study is that with these recent reform efforts, little is known about how the AdvancED STEM certification process influences School Growth Scores.
America is facing a crisis in filling future Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) related jobs important to maintaining global leadership in education and industry. K-12 student science achievement in the United States is below expectations. Elementary science education is of particular concern because early foundational science understanding is important for later interest and success in STEM disciplines. Among the challenges impacting the quality of elementary science education are inadequate teacher training, content knowledge, and science efficacy.
A school district in Central Florida has implemented a STEM Mobile Lab that aims to create excitement and engage students in STEM education. The program is designed to provide positive STEM learning experiences for students to promote a greater interest in STEM-related careers. The research problem for this study is the lack student science knowledge and interest in STEM-related careers.
