STEM

Minnesota ED Taps Partner To Enhance STEM Ed

• By Joshua Bolkan
• 01/28/16

The Minnesota Department of Education has selected a partner to provide an online learning platform and technology curriculum for STEM education in 200 high schools across the state.

The department is partnering with Mouse, a national non-profit, to provide students access to the company's "web-based learning platform, which includes projects and lessons to develop essential technology skills and expand students' knowledge of innovative practices like circuitry, game design and green technology," according to a news release. The organization will also provide professional development beginning this spring.

As students use the platform, teachers can track progress through a digital badging system. As students develop competencies, they are prepared for tasks such as managing their school's helpdesk.

Dozens of schools have already registered and are set to begin implementation. Registration will continue until 200 schools have been selected.

"Minnesota  is focused on ensuring that all students graduate from high school well prepared for careers, college and citizenship," said Doug Paulson, STEM specialist at the Minnesota Department of Education, in a prepared statement. "We are excited to have Mouse provide an innovative and engaging opportunity for high school students to graduate with certification of the skills and competencies that continue to fuel future technology jobs and innovation throughout the state."