The C-STEM program integrates hands-on computing and robotics into formal K-12 math education program. C-STEM is a UC Approved Educational Preparation Program for Undergraduate Admission to all UC campuses. C-STEM has UC A-G Program Status. High schools can readily and easily add the “A-G approved” rigorous C-STEM curriculum integrated with computing and robotics to their own school’s A-G course lists to satisfy the UC/CSU admission requirements.
C-STEM Center aims to transform computing, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (C-STEM) education in both formal and informal K-14 programs through integrated learning, guided by two key objectives: (1) Close the achievement gap by broadening participation of students traditionally underrepresented in computing and STEM related careers and post-secondary study. (2) Develop students’ 21st century problem-solving skills to tackle real world concerns through integrated computing and STEM education. The C-STEM program provides formal computing education for all K-12 students through existing math courses. The C-STEM Math-ICT Pathway will provide K-12 students with 12 years of hands-on math education with computing and robotics.
The C-STEM Center studies how to use innovative computing and robotics technologies to increase student interest and help them learn STEM subjects with an emphasis on Algebra, a gatekeeper for high-school graduation and careers in STEM fields. The C-STEM program helps close the math achievement gap, engages traditionally unrepresented groups and at risk students in hands-on learning math with computing and robotics, as described in this article by the Center Director. Through cutting edge research with funding from the National Science Foundation and California Department of Education, the C-STEM Center, in collaboration with our industry partners, has developed innovative educational technology C-STEM Studio with computing in C/C++ for K-14 hands-on learning math and computer science. By working with K-14 educators, the C-STEM Center integrates computer programming and robotics into teaching STEM subjects by creating project-based computing and robotics activities, integrated curriculum, and hands-on personalized and collaborative learning strategies aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Standards. This integration helps students make meaningful connections between regular STEM topics and their relevance to real-life applications as well as help develop students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The C-STEM Center also studies how to streamline the curriculum on computing education in the context of STEM subjects in elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools, as well as the first two years of college to increase student interest in pursuing computing and STEM related careers and post-secondary study.
For successful implementation of the C-STEM curriculum integrated with computing and robotics in classrooms and afterschool programs, the C-STEM Center provides unique professional development for K-14 teachers without any prior computing experience to integrate computing and robotics into their classroom teaching.
The C-STEM Center and our partners organize annual curriculum-based level-playing RoboPlay Competitions in various regions on C-STEM Day to further engage students in project-based team activities and to showcase their accomplishments and creativity in not only math and engineering, but also in writing, art, music, and film production.
