Purpose for the Guide
The tools and articles provided here describe a model for how to engage out-of-school activity leaders in professional development around science and engineering activities for youth. Based on a successful NSF-funded program called the National Partnerships for AfterSchool Science (NPASS), we describe an approach to out-of-school programming where science is complementary to what happens in school, and the activities and projects used with youth are accessible to most program leaders. Through working closely with those involved in delivering these kinds of programs over several years, we have noticed that the availability of science curricula and other teaching materials is not enough to get science into out-of-school programs. Program leaders also need instruction and guidance for how to implement and sustain science programs for children. This guide was designed to address the need for ongoing professional development of out-of-school leaders by offering specific training tools for those who may want to present workshops and provide ongoing training for this audience. We expect that specific content on this site can be used flexibly depending on the needs and experience of the community-based organization with which you are working.
Information Available on this Web site
Working in the Out-of-School Context: Describes some important features of science programming in out-of-school programs, the different types of programs, and the need for professional development of activity leaders. Also contains articles dealing with differences between design-challenge and science-exploration activities and the relationship between play and exploration in out-of-school environments. In addition, contains an accessible glossary of the terms used in our guide, since there are often multiple meanings for vocabulary related to out-of-school programs.
Planning for Professional Development: Orients the user to important considerations for designing professional development, including assessing the needs of participants and addressing the context for your program. Also discusses effective ways to address implementation issues with participants, and includes guidance and resources for selecting science and engineering activities for use with participants.
Workshop Tools: Downloadable PDF files of sessions useful for teaching activity leaders how to lead effective educational science and engineering activities. These lessons are adult learning experiences meant for activity leaders themselves; they are not activities to be conducted with children or youth. They are specifically designed to explore pedagogical ideas through shared experiences and discussion. These topical pieces can be inserted flexibly into workshops and ongoing staff professional development programs. Also included here are practical guidance in the form of outlines and agendas for three-hour, one-day, and three-day workshops.
Resource Links: Provides links to Web sites, articles and books related to implementing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programming in out-of-school settings.
