The University of Tulsa’s Javen Weston, Ph.D. and associate professor of chemical engineering, has been awarded a $140,747 grant by the National Science Foundation Building Capacity in STEM Education Research (NSF: BCSER). This grant will explore how science fairs can inspire long-term interest in science, technology, engineering, and math fields and improve engagement among underrepresented student groups. The two-year project, titled “Development and Investigation of Science Fair Engagement Strategies to Enhance Informal STEM Education Opportunities,” aims to expand participation in the Tulsa Regional Science Fair and improve educational opportunities in STEM.
The research will focus on identifying barriers for increased participation in science fairs and assess potential methods to boost participation for students from urban and rural schools in Tulsa and Creek Counties, particularly in districts that have been historically underrepresented. Through targeted outreach activities and hands-on research experiences, the project will offer students new tools for developing science fair projects, including resources driven by artificial intelligence technology to help identify research topics.
A key part of funding will be allocated toward developing Weston’s capacity to expand beyond highly quantitative engineering research into the world of qualitative education research. Other UTulsa faculty working on the two-year project are Helen Douglass, Ph.D. and assistant professor of education, and Laura Ford, Ph.D. and associate professor of chemical engineering. Emily Mortimer, Ph.D. and vice president of ecosystems for the Tulsa Regional Stem Alliance, also is on the team.
“Science fairs are powerful tools for sparking curiosity and building confidence in young learners,” said Weston. “This project is about learning how to make it easier for every student in the Tulsa region to participate in the science fair.”
Weston hopes this research will provide a model for how science fairs can act as a catalyst for expanding STEM access and engagement across diverse communities, ultimately contributing to the growth of a more equitable STEM workforce.
“Dr. Weston’s work will not only enhance our understanding of how science fairs impact students but also create meaningful opportunities for young learners from underrepresented communities to engage with STEM in new and exciting ways,” said Andreas A. Polycarpou, Ph.D. and dean of the College of Engineering & Computer Science.