There are many initiatives out there encouraging children to get involved with computer science and STEM classes (science, technology, engineering and math), including a recent boost in funding from the White House for public education. In this vein, the Girl Scouts recently teamed up with the SETI Institute (an organization co-founded by Carl Sagan dealing with the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) to offer STEM classes and space merit badges. This is also an example of the effort to close the gender gap in these subjects and get more girls interested in topics often associated with boys.
The five year program is called Reaching for the Stars: NASA Science for Girl Scouts and includes the first ever space science badges for Girl Scouts.
Space Science Merit Badges
The Girl Scouts and SETI are Offering STEM Classes and Space Badges
Trend Themes
1. STEM Education for Girls - Opportunities to encourage girls in STEM subjects through initiatives like space merit badges.
2. Closing the Gender Gap - Efforts to bridge the gender gap in science and technology by engaging girls in traditionally male-dominated fields.
3. Partnerships in Education - Collaborations between organizations like the Girl Scouts and SETI Institute to provide STEM classes and badges.
Industry Implications
1. Education - Innovative approaches to teaching STEM subjects and engaging girls in science and technology education.
2. Non-profit Organizations - Opportunities for non-profit organizations to partner with educational institutions to promote gender equality in STEM education.
3. Space Science - Space agencies and organizations can leverage partnerships with educational institutions to foster interest in space science among young girls.