FIRST Inspires K–12 Kids to Become Scientists and Engineers
Since 1989, the not-for-profit FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) has encouraged kids of all ages to pursue science and technology, especially at a time when students tend to disengage from STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) classes.
FIRST also helps youth develop the critical thinking skills and confidence to become the next science and technology leaders.
By engaging youth in hands-on, real-world problems, FIRST has made its participants nearly three times more likely to show interest in science and technology courses and to pursue a STEM career.
“Industry values the role challenge-based learning plays in developing its current and future workforce,” author Nancy Boyer says.