Exeter outreach video resources promoted nationally

The National STEM programme has recognised the achievements of the project so far, and intends to give a higher profile to the work. The ‘Becoming a STEM Enthusiast’ Project aims to provide advice and guidance to students on what it means to study Maths, Engineering and Science disciplines.

College students and staff talk about the rewards, challenges and day-to-day experiences of learning and teaching within their discipline through over 30 video vignettes, developed for use in a range of settings and institutional contexts.  The video clips show current undergraduates reflecting on their experiences of the transition from school to higher education.  School students are given a real and authentic insight into the reality of university life.  The academic staff outline how they came to be working in their field, and explain what inspired them early on in their career.  They also advise students on how to prepare to study a STEM subject at university level.

Raising student aspirations is an important way of involving and inspiring students from a wide variety of backgrounds in STEM subjects at university.  The videos have the potential to be a valuable outreach tool, encouraging students to consider STEM subjects and make informed choices.

The materials are intended for use by schools and students, and in staff development.  They hope to enhance the range of resources available to outreach practitioners and other university staff and students acting as ambassadors for their respective disciplines. As a result, they aim to encourage progression from post-16 education into STEM subjects at HE level; helping with the transition to university; considering graduate prospects; and sharing exciting and innovative learning and teaching practices for staff development.

The videos are already being actively promoted by a range of organisations, including the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)and HEFCE, through their recently launched website ‘Career Pilot’, aimed at 14-18 year olds.

Project lead Jane Rowe says:  ‘What comes across in all the videos is the sheer enthusiasm of EMPS colleagues for their specialisms.  This has led to some really useful resources for outreach practitioners and staff developers around the country, and the feedback we’ve received so far has been excellent.’

Exeter has been nationally recognised for widening access to higher education.  The university has recently been involved in the Realising Opportunities programme, which won ‘Widening Participation Initiative of the Year’ at the Times Higher Awards in November.

For more information, please see the HE STEM web pages.