Now that you have had the opportunity to learn about Actua, our mission, and model, we will shift to look at the impact for youth and your role as an instructor. This part of the module will first look at some of the statistics around engaging youth in STEM learning, and some of the core principles of Actua’s network delivery. Next, we will explore the opportunities and possibilities for you as an instructor.

Impact for Canadian Youth

For many youth, having a meaningful and positive experience with STEM can have an impact on their conception of STEM and of learning broadly. Evidence shows that there are points where youth are making decisions about themselves and their abilities, which impact not only knowledge and opinion of STEM, but can impact their opportunities and their future success. Actua’s aim, through STEM outreach delivery, is to make a difference for youth in such a way that youth can see STEM as an important part of their world and futures. We want to help keep doors open.

We know that the experience for youth at an Actua network member program has clear positive benefits and outcomes. In 2003, the results of a three-year independent research initiative conducted at Actua network member locations showed that:

• 83% of youth were more confident in science and technology
• 84% showed increased enjoyment of science and technology
• 84% of youth engaged were likely to do better in science and technology at school.
• 75% were likely to take optional science in high school
• 74% of youth were likely to study science in university

(Crombie, G. "Positive Effects of Science and Technology Summer Camps on Confidence, Values and Future Intentions" Canadian Journal of Counselling, 2003, Vol. 37:4)

Take time to consider the following reflection questions:

• When did you decide that you were or were not a “science person” or a “math person”? 
• What factors contributed to this idea?