k-12 outreach lessons learned

K-12 Outreach Lessons Learned

Presented by Central Florida SWE:Cheri Maboudou-TchaoAtoosa Vaziri

Agenda

• Outreach Activity Example• Plan• Follow Through• Speaker Contact Information

2

Outreach Activity Example

• “A Day in the Life of a Real Engineer” promotes STEM careers to middle and high school aged females

• Event encourages female students interest in the engineering curriculum offered by Seminole County schools

3

Outreach Activity Example (Cont.)

• Central Florida (CFL) SWE holds an annual event in local middle and high schools

• 2013 Event: 117 High School students and 30 students from Middle School

• During the last five events, valuable improvements made based on survey results from students and feedback from volunteers and school staff

4

Outreach Activity Example (Cont.)

• Members volunteer their time and expertise to set up different hands-on workshops, speaker presentations, and panel discussions

• Other volunteers showcase engineering companies and colleges

5

Plan

• Define parameters for the event

• Take advantage of the Program Development Grants (PDG) offered by SWE

• Advertise for the event

• Engage Volunteers

6

Plan: Define parameters for the event

• Age• Location• Focus area• Length of time• Target number of

attendees• Target number of

volunteers required• Budget/Sponsors

7

How to Submit a Proposal for SWE PDG Funding

Plan: Program Development Grants

• You can access PDG requirements and application from the SWE website

• Plan at least 3-4 months ahead of the event

• http://societyofwomenengineers.swe.org/index.php/swe-program-development-grants

8

Plan: Advertise Event

Advertisement Method:•SWE Outreach calendar•Section SWE website; monthly eBlasts; and personal emails to members•Members email their companies

SWE Events Calendar

9

Plan: Advertise Event

Advertisement Content:•Purpose and format of event •Type of support needed, number of volunteers •Logistical information •Organizer contact information

eBlast Announcement

10

Plan: Engage Volunteers

• Contact volunteers as soon as possible

• Determine interests (presentation or workshop)

• Respond to questions in a timely manner

• Identify any material or facility support needed

11

Plan: Prepare Volunteers

At initial request•Discuss age group and students/group (to tailor the workshop or presentation)•Discuss duration of the workshop event•Provide number of workshops to be conducted for the event

12

Plan: Prepare Volunteers (cont.)

Close to event date•Discuss schedule and any changes•Provide event location and map (including parking)•Confirm volunteer assignments (roles and expectations) •Communicate dress code

Volunteer Assignments

13

Plan: Prepare Volunteers (cont.)

Logistics Checklist•Facility requirements for workshop (indoor/outdoor, computer, projector, water, electricity, etc.)•Confirm workshop materials required•Ensure budget availability•Check on site specific requirements (volunteer forms, background checks)

14

Essay Contest

Follow through with Attendees

SurveyComplete at event for immediate feedback

Essay ContestEncourages continued attendee involvement•Topic: “Research successful female engineers as possible role models”•Prize: iPad (if budget allows)

15

Follow through with Volunteers

• Acknowledge volunteers at end of event

• Provide recognition certificate and/or small appreciation gift

• Send survey and confirm interest in upcoming events

16

Follow through with SWE

• Complete grant requirements on time

• Summarize event in section newsletter and on website

• Submit summary in community newsletters and newspapers

City of Sanford Newsletter

17

Speaker Contact Information

Atoosa Vaziricflswemembership@swe.orgCheri Maboudou-Tchaocheri.maboudou-tchao@swe.org

18