The MSI has a substantial history of leadership in programs that build ‘flow’ in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) ‘pipeline,’ leading to baccalaureate and advanced degrees in the sciences. Beyond improving Oregon and national STEM pipelines, there are other overarching goals to these activities:
- These programs comprise strong, enduring collaborations with Oregon K-12 schools, education service districts, and community colleges, statewide. For example, with MSI assistance, regional STEM Hubs are developing in Lane County and northeastern Oregon which provide shared classroom curricula, technical equipment and scientific expertise.
- A University of Oregon Center for STEM Careers through Outreach, Research and Education (STEM CORE), which shares members and collaborates with the MSI, will provide resources for teachers, instructors, industry partners with outreach missions, and research opportunities for undergraduates. Expertise in K 12 and community college outreach and liaison development, formal program evaluation, is coalescing under STEM CORE and includes energetic collaborations with the MSI.
Current outreach programs with significant participation and leadership by MSI faculty and students include:
• Mad Duck Science Friday provides provide a cohesive lab-based science education program for local students on days when school has been shortened or cancelled.
• SAIL (Summer Academy to Inspire Learning) academy for middle and high school students with low-SES backgrounds.
• The North Star Project – which works to create an academic culture and environment that allows students from a diverse range of backgrounds to excel.
• CMiS – A Community for Minorities in STEM – a UO community that focuses on fostering a supportive and inclusive community for ethnic and cultural minorities in all disciplines of science, technology and mathematics.