Museums Afterschool: Principles, Data, and Design

The project aims to identify design principles for high quality Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programming in Out-of-School Time (OST) settings, focusing on key characteristics of the learning activities that engage youth. This national project was developed in 2008 by Exploratorium, an internationally recognized institution, to respond to pressure on the OST field to provide evidence of student learning. Funding for the project provided by the Noyce Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. National 4-H has identified a priority focus on STEM to address a growing concern in the United States that there will be a shortage of trained professionals to fill an increasing demand for STEM work. Minnesota 4-H is actively working on this initiative. National 4-H was invited to be involved in the Museums Afterschool: Principles, Data, and Design (MAPDD) project and requested a field representative from Minnesota 4-H. Rebecca Meyer was appointed from MN to serve with Pam Garza on the project representing National 4-H.