The Benefits of Informal Learning Garnered Through Participation in the Curriculum and Community Environmental Restoration Science (STEM + Computer Science) Project

Abstract

The Curriculum and Community Environmental Restoration Science (STEM + Computer Science) Project has several goals, with its primary focus on connecting the students of New York City with the enormous potential of restoring New York Harbor to its former self. Through the collaboration of numerous partners representing all of the facets of the city to the marginalized students living in hundreds of under-resourced communities, out-of-school experiences such as participation in the annual Science Symposium and the environmental fieldwork conducted along the shores of New York Harbor flourished. The CCERS STEM + C Project enables the merging of these entities for the good of its participants and the enormous benefit to the environment's restoration. This study consists of student surveys administered to and completed by 513 students attending schools throughout New York City's five boroughs. Of those who responded to the ethnicity section of the survey, 43.7% represent minority students. Data indicated a significant increase in STEM motivation by the CCERS STEM + C participating students, particularly those who identify as members of the under-represented minority group.