This article discusses how middle and high school inner-city and rural students can increase their academic achievement and self-efficacy in STEM classes using The Digital Curriculum, a program that incorporates digital technology, software, and a design project. This curriculum, which integrates socially relevant content, gives students a chance…

High school Technology and Engineering (TE) classes are, in the majority, comprised of male students (USDE, 2012). This data point is also true in middle and junior high school elective TE classes. In light of the rapid growth of technology and engineering career opportunities, the lack of women students enrolling in middle, junior high, and high…

Assessments are generally categorized as being either formative or summative. Summative assessment takes place periodically through the school term as well as at the end and typically takes the form of formal tests and high-stakes quizzes. Summative assessment tends to be used for purposes of assigning grades and for evaluating the effectiveness…

Project-/Problem-Based Learning (PBL) creates dynamic learning environments, incorporates various stimuli, allows learners to gain valuable experiences that extend to real-world applicability, and should be considered as a primary delivery method in STEM classes. The application and benefits of PBL in STEM classes are limitless. Students learn…

Knowing as much as possible about a student's needs, preexisting knowledge, and interests is just as important as knowing the curriculum content. An effective teacher must possess content mastery in order to be able to link course content skills to show workplace relevance. In addition, teachers should adapt and develop instruction according to…