Connecting Students to STEM Careers: Social Networking Strategies

Many jobs of the future will involve science, technology, engineering, and math, but how can we expect our students to go into careers as mechanical engineers, environmental scientists, or computer programmers when they've never met the people who have these jobs? Students might not even realize that they have career options in STEM fields. Introduce your students to the numerous STEM careers available by connecting them to actual STEM professionals who can act as role models and career mentors, showing students how their school work applies to the world and their future job opportunities.

Discover how to make these connections using technology such as videoconferencing and web 2.0 tools. In Connecting Students to STEM, author Camille Cole shows you ways to find STEM professionals around the world who are willing to interact with your students. She explains how to set up programs that give students the opportunity to engage in real-world learning experiences and how to tap into current programs. Through this authentic engagement your students will find their STEM education to be more rewarding and relevant to their lives, leading many to develop an interest in STEM careers.

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is the trusted source for professional development, knowledge generation, advocacy and leadership for innovation. ISTE is the premier membership association for educators and education leaders engaged in improving teaching and learning by advancing the effective use of technology in PK-12 and teacher education. Home of the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS), the Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET), and ISTE's annual conference (formerly known as the National Educational Computing Conference, or NECC), ISTE represents more than 100,000 professionals worldwide. We support our members with information, networking opportunities, and guidance as they face the challenge of transforming education.

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