STEM

New Journal Launches for STEM Educators

• By Michael Hart
• 03/15/16

A new online journal has been launched for educators of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The new digital publication, Connected Science Learning, will highlight effective programs, practices and partnerships that educators — both in schools and out of schools, in places like museums or technology centers — can use to enhance STEM learning.

"This first-of-its-kind journal will inspire and inform a wide range of educators, whether they are in the K-12 science classroom, running an after-school program or leading education efforts at a museum or technology center," said NSTA Executive Director David Evans.

The new publication edited by Dennis Schatz, a senior advisor at the Pacific Science Center, released its first issue March 15 with a theme of "Successful In-School and Out-of-School Science Education Collaborations." Educators can sign up to receive the free journal that is being produced jointly by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC).

A second issue of Connected Science Learning that will focus on professional development will be released in fall 2016. Both of the first issues will be free, thanks to pilot underwriting from the National Science Foundation.

Representatives of the partner associations said they had found a dearth of accessible, user-friendly resources that would connect the programs in formal and informal learning environments.

"This journal will be a valuable new bridge," said ASTC President and CEO Anthony (Bud) Rock.

The inaugural issue includes articles that highlight a STEM program in Minneapolis Public Schools, "a high school within a zoo" in Omaha, NE and a program at the Franklin Institute on applying neuroscience to education.