Supporting STEM Learning Beyond the School Classroom
The project aims to enhance parental engagement and scientific inquiry in primary STEM education, focusing on community settings.
Project Leader: Dr Anne O’Dwyer
Email: Anne.ODwyer@mic.ul.ie
Project Team: Mairead Ryan, Dr Maeve Liston, Dr Eleanor Walsh, Dr Anne O’Dwyer.
Project Description
Through accessible workshops, the initiative empowers parents as co-learners and role models to extend STEM learning beyond the classroom. The methodology uses practical, hands-on activities that combine high-tech and low-tech approaches to STEM education.
Community-based events and practical sessions build parental confidence, foster co-learning, and extend STEM learning beyond the classroom. By scaffolding parents’ efficacy and interest, the initiative promotes lifelong learning and positions parents as role models in their child’s STEM journey. Outcomes include improved science capital, digital literacy, and a sustainable model for community STEM engagement.
