In May 2013, a high school student from California designed an improved
supercapacitor that allows cell phone charging in 20 seconds (Kosser, 2013). Even as
Americans celebrate the success of this invention, other nations’ students continue to
make great educational gains in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
subjects (Hess, Kelly, & Meeks, 2011). In order for the United States to lead in STEM,
educational pathways should lead to producing a well-trained STEM workforce (National
Science and Technology Council [NSTC], 2013).
How can we increase high school student interest in STEM careers? Hess et al.
(2011) cited that our nation’s success in STEM education will require dramatic
improvement within classrooms by “creating a support system and a culture that
encourages excellence in STEM achievement” (p. 1). Therefore, it is essential that the
United States encourage and nurture student interest in STEM subjects.
Ryshke (2012) suggested that one possible instructional strategy for building
interest in STEM subjects is through project-based learning (PBL). PBL utilizes
community- and industry-based projects to nurture, directly, the development of career
and college readiness skills. Chapter 1 of this case study addresses the background and
history of STEM education, the status of the workforce in the state and nation, and the
utilization of PBL within a STEM curriculum.