This proposal describes a Track 1 project developed by the University of Purdue. The proposal focuses on Fellows bringing interdisciplinary approaches to science in middle school classrooms. The project builds on, and integrates with, a major research initiative at Purdue, which involves building and staffing of "Discovery Park". The educational arm of this initiative is called "Discovery Learning Center". The PI for this proposal is a co-Director of the Learning Center. There are four goals noted in the proposal. The first goal is to enhance the quality of STEM education in middle schools, particularly those within small town or rural communities, and with a multicultural and/or lower socioeconomic component, thus increasing student STEM knowledge and interest. The second goal is to provide training and mentoring for graduate fellows, including experience in middle school classrooms, and enhancements to develop their ability as future STEM faculty or professionals. The third goal is to provide professional development for middle school teachers, enhancing offerings and inquiry-based education in STEM disciplines. The fourth goal is to foster ongoing, mutually beneficial partnerships between the university and area school corporations to continually enhance STEM education.
