Enhancing K-12 STEM Preparedness through Biomedical Engineering Outreach

Introduction: The Biomedical Engineering Student Society (BMES) at Syracuse University hosted a STEM Exploration Day to enhance STEM preparedness among K-12 students. This event aimed to immerse students in the principles of biomedical engineering through engaging, hands-on activities, thereby fostering a deep interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The initiative was designed to target a diverse range of students, promoting equal educational opportunities and inspiring future careers in STEM fields. Recognizing the critical role of early exposure to STEM concepts, this event sought to provide students with practical experiences that translate theoretical knowledge into real-world applications. By focusing on biomedical engineering, the event highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of STEM fields and their impact on society, aiming to motivate students to pursue further education and careers in these areas. The program also served to bridge the gap between K-12 education and higher education institutions, creating a pipeline for future STEM professionals.

Materials and

Methods: The STEM Exploration Day took place on March 2, 2024, at Link Hall, Syracuse University. The event was structured into two sessions: a morning session for students aged 6-13 and an afternoon session for students aged 14-18. Over 30 undergraduate and graduate student volunteers facilitated a range of hands-on activities. Key activities included building a prosthetic hand and extracting strawberry DNA, designed to make abstract biomedical engineering concepts tangible and understandable. Data collection was a crucial component of the event, involving structured pre- and post-event surveys tailored to different age groups. These surveys aimed to assess initial interest and subsequent shifts in students' attitudes towards STEM careers, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of biomedical engineering concepts. The methodology ensured that data collection was age-appropriate, capturing a comprehensive picture of the event's impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. The surveys provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of the activities and the overall success of the event in achieving its educational objectives.

Results, Conclusions, and Discussions: The STEM Exploration Day successfully engaged approximately 70 K-12 students, significantly enhancing their interest and proficiency in biomedical engineering concepts. The event's impact was particularly pronounced among middle and high school students, who demonstrated marked improvements in problem-solving skills and a heightened awareness of the societal applications of biomedical engineering. Post-event surveys revealed a significant boost in STEM engagement, with students expressing increased enthusiasm for pursuing STEM careers. The activities, such as building a prosthetic hand and extracting strawberry DNA, were highly effective in translating theoretical concepts into practical experiences, making STEM subjects more accessible and appealing. The feedback underscored the program's success in fostering a deeper understanding of STEM fields and their real-world implications.

The event highlighted the importance of immersive, hands-on learning experiences in promoting STEM education. It also showcased the critical role of outreach programs in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, thereby preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers. The success of the STEM Exploration Day demonstrates the potential of similar initiatives to inspire and engage students, creating a sustainable pipeline of future STEM professionals. This initiative serves as a model for future outreach programs, emphasizing the value of early STEM exposure and the need for continued support and collaboration between educational institutions and the broader community.

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