Learning Outcomes of a Community-Based Science Curriculum to Engage Youth from Title I Schools in Cancer Medicine,...

The Young Scholars Program (YSP; a maker learning opportunity) aims to widen the pipeline of youth attending Title I schools interested in STEM careers by engaging them in cancer medicine, biology, and prevention content through hands-on, maker learning experiences. We report on learning outcomes of a YSP cohort (N = 441; 49% female, 81% African American/Latine) of 3rd-5th graders participating in the curriculum. Data were examined in aggregate and across grade levels. On the program's evaluation survey, knowledge was high for cancer prevention (90% overall; 98% Grade 5 vs. 83% Grade 3: χ² = 16, p < 0.01), cell biology (81% overall; 91% Grade 5 vs. 77% Grade 3: χ² = 8.1, p < 0.01), and immune response (97% overall). Identification with STEM careers was also high: 99% for science and 97% for engineering. Further, 91% endorsed beliefs associated with inventive learning, 85% with STEM interest, and 92% with belonging in STEM (r = .26, p < 0.01). In a grade- and knowledge-adjusted regression model of the inventive learning outcome, both STEM interest (ß = 0.25, SE = 0.13, t = 3.91, p < 0.001) and feelings of belonging in STEM (ß = 0.30, SE = 0.09, t = 4.79, p < 0.001) were significant contributors. Elementary students appear to have benefited from the YSP's curriculum, which may broaden the STEM and medical workforces over time.