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COMMUNITY:
Project Descriptions

Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education: Thinking SMART

May 10, 2002 - April 30, 2008 | Media and Technology, Public Programs
Thinking SMART is a comprehensive five-year program that will encourage young women to pursue careers in science, mathematics and technology. The project focuses on girls ages 12-18, and will especially target those who are underserved and underrepresented in the sciences, including girls from diverse backgrounds and persons with disabilities. Key elements include four science/engineering module options, a two-tiered mentoring component, training, resource materials, online activities and an awards program. The modules (Material Girls, Eco Girls, Galactic Girls, Net Girls), focus on engineering, ecology, physics and computer science respectively, and will be aligned with national standards. The modules are implemented during the school year and include weekly programming, a summer camp and a spring "Women in Science and Engineering" conference organized by girls. Weekly meetings are augmented by online activities, in which girls interact with other participants and mentors, publish reports and obtain career information. Additionally, participants who complete all four modules are eligible to become paid mentors for younger participants. Five publications will be produced to support the program, including manuals for mentors (both adults and youth), module activities, a parent guide and a guide for implementation sites on community partnerships. Thinking SMART materials will be developed and piloted tested at eight sites in conjunction with Girls, Inc. affiliates in Nashua, NH, Worcester, MA, Oakridge, TN and Shelbyville, IN, with input from the Society of Women Engineers. Extensive training will also be provided for pilot programs and future dissemination. Finally the E3 Awards Program will motivate implementation sites to create high quality local programs. It is anticipated that more than 1,500 Girls, Inc. affiliates will adopt "Thinking SMART."

Funders

NSF
Funding Program: ISE/AISL
Award Number: 0125765
Funding Amount: 2312418

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Brenda Stegall
    Principal Investigator
    Girls Incorporated
  • Janet Stanton
    Former Co-Principal Investigator
    Girls Incorporated
  • Heather Johnston Nicholson
    Co-Principal Investigator
    Girls Incorporated
  • Shalonda Murray
    Co-Principal Investigator
    Girls Incorporated
  • REVISE logo
    Former Co-Principal Investigator
    Girls Incorporated
  • Discipline: Computing and information science | Ecology, forestry, and agriculture | Engineering | Physics
    Audience: Middle School Children (11-13) | Youth/Teen (up to 17) | Museum/ISE Professionals
    Environment Type: Media and Technology | Websites, Mobile Apps, and Online Media | Public Programs | Community Outreach Programs
    Access and Inclusion: Women and Girls

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