Development of a low-cost affordable inquiry-based system-thinking stem prospectus: Food, water, and energy learning module workbooks

The Food, Energy, and Water Learning Module (FEWLM) workbooks are an effort by URM Ph.D. STEM faculty to decrease the leaky STEM pipeline and 'pay it forward' via the creation of high-quality out of school learning experiences for 'at-risk' URM 3rd - 8th grade students less competitive in STEM. Curriculum is based on Next Generation Science Standards, with a system thinking approach that provides hands-on, self-driven and team-building activities with a goal to increase scientific exposure and encourage more 'at-risk' URM youth to enter and remain in the STEM pipeline. Analysis of survey data of FEWLM workbooks use by over 50 elementary and middle school youths implemented at area public after-school programs, and a two-week summer STEM enrichment camp, suggest increases in scientific exposure and awareness about environmental sustainability and human health issues suggest FEWLM made a positive impression by increasing 1) their interest in STEM, 2) their perception of STEM, and 3) confidence in their ability to participate in STEM. Copyright © 2023, IGI Global. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited.