Near-Peer Mentors: Enhancing Underrepresented Students' Learning and Engagement in STEM Through Informal Learning Environments

• In Event: 29.090 - Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: 29.090-2 - Exploring Peer Interactions and Learning

Abstract

This paper summarizes the results of a two-year NSF study on informal STEM education related to a mentoring program. Professional scientists, assisted by near peer mentors (NPMs) serving as paid interns, led the sessions on paleontology and climate change in which students of color (aged 9 – 13) had opportunities to engage in hands-on, minds-on learning in informal settings at community-based centers and through outdoor field experiences. The influence of 25 NPMs on student learning, as well as their own learning and development of STEM interest, are discussed. Such paid internships provide opportunities that are needed to empower teenaged youth economically and academically.

Authors

• Jacqueline Leonard, University of Wyoming

• Scott Chamberlin, University of Wyoming