Research-Based and Best Practices Focused
How can we know if MOSFA is achieving goals if we don’t have metrics to measure?
● Evaluation of MOSFA programming is built into the legislation.
● Research and evaluation process will inform programmatic design and decisions.
● Will add to the currently limited body of knowledge on immersive, experiential, and place-based education in outdoor schools in Maine and nationwide.
● STEM educational experiences related to locally-relevant outdoor heritage provides teachers with critical 21st century skill-building tools (communication, problem solving, teamwork, and critical thinking) for their students (NRC, 2011, 2012).
● Involvement in activities focused on improving one’s community develops both civic engagement and 21st century skills (Zukin, et al., 2006).
● STEM skills, self-efficacy, career awareness and aspirations, and associated higheducational aspirations are lacking in Maine’s rural youth – and the nation’s (Change the Equation, 2010).