1.2 million kids and counting—Mobile science laboratories drive student interest in STEM

Amanda L Jones,Mary K Stapleton

doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.2001692

Amanda L Jones, Mary K Stapleton

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.2001692

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Journal: PLOS Biology	Publication Date: May 16, 2017
Citations: 19	License type: CC BY 4.0

Affiliation: Seattle Children's Hospital, Towson University

Abstract

In today’s increasingly technological society, a workforce proficient in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills is essential. Research has shown that active engagement by K–12 students in hands-on science activities that use authentic science tools promotes student learning and retention. Mobile laboratory programs provide this type of learning in schools and communities across the United States and internationally. Many programs are members of the Mobile Lab Coalition (MLC), a nonprofit organization of mobile and other laboratory-based education programs built on scientist and educator collaborations. A recent survey of the member programs revealed that they provide an impressive variety of programming and have collectively served over 1.2 million students across the US.

Highlights

Many programs are members of the Mobile Lab Coalition (MLC), a nonprofit organization of mobile and other laboratory-based education programs built on scientist and educator collaborations
The members of the MLC—a nonprofit organization of mobile and other laboratory-based education programs built on scientist and educator collaborations—have long been aware of gaps and challenges in science education such as those identified by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)
Many programs offer professional development for teachers and participate in community events and science festivals (Fig 1). These data on numbers of students served highlight the critical support MLC member programs provide to formal K–12 school systems and communities that rely on innovative partnerships to support science education [26]

Summary

Introduction

Many programs are members of the Mobile Lab Coalition (MLC), a nonprofit organization of mobile and other laboratory-based education programs built on scientist and educator collaborations. May 16, 2017 programs as they provide equity of access to authentic hands-on, inquiry-based contemporary science education for K–12 students, educators, and communities.

Results

Conclusion