Bridging the Creativity and STEM Crisis

Abstract: This conference paper is authored by Daniel Katanski, Ph.D. Candidate, Eastern Michigan University and is part of the 2013 ASQ Advancing the STEM Agenda Conference proceedings.

American youth have become less creative in the past twenty years, impacting the numbers who are focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects. Finding ways to foster creativity growth in students, can increase interest in STEM and prepare some to enter STEM careers. However, schools cannot alone generate significant interest in STEM topics. The use of Technology Competitions can provide constructive environments where students can solve challenging complex open ended problems with the guidance of adult mentors from STEM fields. The For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Competition is one of the best examples of a Technology Competition.

Keywords: STEM - Conference Proceedings - Critical Thinking - Creativity