Four Strategies for Driving a University Pre-College Computing Outreach Program

Authors

Jeffrey P. Landry, University of South Alabama
Harvey L. Barnett, University of South Alabama
Debra L. Chapman, University of South Alabama
Rosalind McCullough, University of Alabama in Huntsville

Abstract

A public university’s computing outreach program focused on four key strategies for increasing the depth and breadth of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. This paper describes the development and implementation of a project management hands-on learning laboratory activity within the context of the university’s outreach strategies. The first two strategies, establishing relationships with the primary and secondary (K–12) level partner schools and implementing whole-grade participation, have led to repeat visits by students over several years. The third strategy, hands-on learning laboratory activities, has successfully engaged K–12 students, as indicated by the assessment results that provide evidence of successful student learning. The fourth strategy, producer–consumer collaborations, has facilitated the efficient matching of faculty expertise with K–12 teacher needs. The results include the evidence that outreach strategies can have a positive influence on student engagement in STEM education at multiple points in the K–12 education experience.

Recommended Citation

Landry, Jeffrey P.; Barnett, Harvey L.; Chapman, Debra L.; and McCullough, Rosalind (2019) "Four Strategies for Driving a University Pre-College Computing Outreach Program," Journal of Information Systems Education: Vol. 30 : Iss. 3 , 191-201.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/jise/vol30/iss3/5