Abstract for: Exploring Models of Science, Technology, Mathematics, and Engineering (STEM) Education in the United States - Part A

Participants in this workshop will engage in a guided exploration of two system dynamics models related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in the United States. The first model, developed by Raytheon systems engineers, explores potential ways to increase the number of college graduates and teachers in the STEM disciplines. The second model, developed by Dan Sturtevant for his Master's thesis at MIT, explores the causes of the nearly twenty-five year decline in the percentage of U.S. born undergraduates earning degrees in engineering. After a brief intensive introduction to the two models, the participant will engage in exploring how these models can help to evaluate alternative policies for improving the US education system. At least one-third of the workshop will be devoted to interactive learning activities where the modelers discuss the constraints and challenges modeling the U.S. education system and the participants share their experience, knowledge and ideas to improve the models.