STEM Engagement Research
As a trained scientist, Parshati has always been keen on answering questions with her research. While she still reads a LOT of the latest astronomy research, she has switched her active research focus from astronomy to Space STEM Engagement education. She conducts research in the Faculty of Education at Western University to understand and gauge the engagement of the participants as well as their outlook on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers and interest in STEM fields.
Training and Engaging the Next Generation through the Space Explorers™ Program
Parshati leads the educational outreach program at Western University which strives to engage youth to explore the universe and aims to empower children with the basic knowledge and workings of the many branches of planetary science and space exploration. This has been achieved through various programs offered under the Space Explorers Program. The Space Explorers program promotes experiential learning and since its launch, has engaged more than 600 students through hands-on activities.
To assess the potential of the Space Explorers Program to engage youth, camp participants are invited to complete a survey at the conclusion of the program. Survey statements gauge campers’ experiences, as well as their interest in the field of space science and technology, thus providing insights into the impact of the program. The survey also allows for the evaluation of programming, camp activities, and facilitators.
Through our research, we intend to leverage campers’ experiences and recommendations to continue developing robust programs as we move into the next phase of science and technology-themed educational outreach initiatives.
Conference Proceedings: Training and Engaging the Next Generation of Space Scientists and Engineers through the Space Explorers Program, IAC-19,E1,1,4,x52819
If you are looking for Parshati’s Astrophysics research experience, please visit Astrophysics Research page!