Food, Energy and Water Learning Module Workbooks (FEWLM): Low-Cost Affordable Inquiry-based STEM CurriculaJournal of STEM Outreach

ABSTRACTWe describe a set of low-cost, inquiry-based science learning materials that positively impacts scientific literacy and quantitative skills development and is accessible across socio-economic barriers. The Diverse and Integrative STEM Continua Using Socio-environmental Systems In and Out of Neighborhoods (DISCUSSION) network core team developed an interdisciplinary inquiry-based STEM curriculum of workbooks built on the Next Generation Science Standards called the Food Energy and Water Nexus Learning Module (FEWLM), which is low-cost and suitable for formal and informal learning. The FEWLM workbooks provide scaffold STEM learning to elementary and middle school youth through hands-on, self-driven, and team-building activities on relevant environmental sustainability and human health issues. We implemented FEWLM at local Boys and Girls Clubs, local public after-school programs, and the DISCUSSION “HydroPHonics” Summer Enrichment camp. More than 150 underrepresented minority youth were engaged in our FEWLM science learning events during a two-year period; however, approximately 50 youth were surveyed about their experiences with FEWLM, attitudes and interest in science, and career ambitions. Evidence indicated that our FEWLM learning experiences had a positive impact on elementary and middle school youth by increasing their interest in STEM, perception of STEM in their lives, and confidence in their ability to participate in STEM.