Building the STEM Pipeline through Oceangoing Research and Near-Peer Mentoring

Abstract

Oregon Sea Grant (OSG) has been providing marine education programs for over forty years, including teacher professional development, field and classroom programs, undergraduate internships, and graduate level fellowships. Over the last decade as the need for marine technology workforce has increased, OSG began to utilize marine technology as a hook to engage students in ocean issues and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skill development. In collaboration with partners, OSG has created a suite of marine technology-focused programs for K-12 and undergraduate college students. From coordinating underwater robotics competitions to involving students in the creation and deployment of a variety of marine technologies, OSG has increased career exposure, interest, and STEM skills in thousands of student participants. Starting in 2016, OSG initiated at-sea research experiences for high school and undergraduate students aboard Oregon State University (OSU) research vessels utilizing a near-peer mentoring structure which has led to demonstrated increases in STEM-related skills and student interest in STEM. These student-focused research cruises offer the opportunity for high school students to explore their interests, while providing college and post-baccalaureate students the chance to advance their skills and further their training. This continuum of learning has been shown to foster the development of young scientists and engineers while encouraging students of various ages to remain within the STEM pipeline.