Enrichment Experiences in Engineering (E3) for Teachers Summer Research Program

Ongoing efforts across the U.S. to encourage K-12 students to consider science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers have been motivated by concerns that the STEM pipeline is shrinking due to declining student enrollment and increasing rates of retirement in industry. The Enrichment Experiences in Engineering (E3) for Teachers Summer Research Program at Texas A&M University engages secondary STEM teachers in an engineering research experience so they can introduce engineering concepts through the courses they teach to their students and stimulate students to pursue engineering careers. This paper presents findings of a mixed-methods study assessing the value of the E3 program as a catalyst for STEM teachers’ professional development in understanding the field of engineering and their perceived ability to implement engineering content into their secondary STEM classes. Quantitative findings document that the E3 program had a positive benefit for STEM teachers as related to their experiences in teaching and promoting the field of engineering to their students. Qualitative findings reported document two main themes, “Positive Professional Development Growth” and “Short/Long-Term Benefits of Participation.” Finally, recommendations were provided to secondary STEM teachers and Colleges of Engineering to enhance their partnerships.