DoD STEM is committed to providing STEM education opportunities to students and educators of all ages and demographics.
Program evaluation and assessment are critical components of both the DoD STEM Strategic Plan and the Federal Strategic Plan for Advancing STEM Education and Cultivating STEM Talent. DoD operates with transparency and accountability according to the DoD STEM Logic Model , to achieve the outlined goals and objectives of the Federal STEM Strategy. DoD is also committed to establishing a continuous learning structure that leverages and scales evidence-based practices across DoD STEM ecosystems; reporting participation rates and understanding the participation of underserved and underrepresented groups; using common metrics to measure progress and encourage growth; ensuring program performance and outcomes are made publicly available; spearheading a DoD-wide implementation plan; and tracking progress.
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Each year, DoD STEM programs inspire students, educators, and mentors to get excited about STEM. Launch the DoD STEM data story to learn how the Department’s STEM programs align to our Strategic Goals to reach students and educators throughout the country.
Imagine what the future of STEM will do!
DoD STEM Makes a Difference
DoD has a robust portfolio of STEM education, outreach, and workforce development programs and activities that cover pre-kindergarten students through adult learners. These programs and activities are vital to the success of DoD.
11,000+
DoD Scientists and Engineers (S&E) volunteers
DoD S&E volunteers who participate as mentors, role models, and speakers as well as in other capacities provide meaningful and powerful connections to DoD STEM careers and opportunities. S&E volunteers provide insights into the areas of interest relevant to their role in the Defense enterprise.
Programming in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the United States territories of Puerto Rico and Guam.
Several international programs also reach the DoD Education Activity regions of the Americas, Europe and the Pacific.
Blend of Participants and Audiences
Developing and supporting pathways for students and educators to engage in meaningful STEM experiences is necessary for achieving the DoD STEM mission, which is “to create a talent pool with minds for innovation, diversity of thought, and the technical agility to sustain DoD’s competitive edge.”
“I can honestly say my passion for STEM and for outreach to young girls originated from my MATHCOUNTS experience…It sparked my passion for math, and ultimately the rest of my STEM pursuits throughout high school and beyond.” - Lauren C., Student Competitor in MATHCOUNTS, a Defense STEM Education Consortium Partner
Blend of Activity
The breadth of the program offerings is supported by research that indicates the importance of providing STEM programming for all ages of learners using diverse methods.
Outreach
Activities that support formal, classroom-based, or informal education, especially serving those who may otherwise not have access.
Internships
Students work with mentors in a research environment where they gain experience and skills on a temporary basis (e.g., summer, holidays, part time).
Awareness
Activities that promote interest in and knowledge of STEM opportunities that promote or increase familiarity with DoD. This includes expanding awareness through marketing efforts.
Competitions
Students may compete in activities for recognition or rewards (e.g., scholarship, financial award).
Hands-on Activities
Instructional approaches involving direct experience with natural phenomena, or educational experiences where students manipulate objects to gain knowledge or understanding; doing science as opposed to simply hearing or reading about it.
Teacher Trainings
Educators, mostly K–12, are the target group for workshops, training, or other activities to ensure that educators have the tools and knowledge necessary to develop and implement STEM education.
Scholarships and Fellowships
Students are financially supported in their pursuit of higher education; may involve service in return.