National STEM Action Plan
"American ingenuity, built on a foundation of science and engineering, has led our country to the forefront of innovation and discovery in the 19th and 20th centuries and has changed the basis of our economy. In the 21st century, scientific and technological innovations have become increasingly important as we face the benefits and challenges of both globalization and a knowledge-based economy. To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, all students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past. A particular need exists for an increased emphasis on technology and engineering at all levels in our Nation’s education system. "  http://www.nsf.gov/nsb/documents/2007/stem_action.pdf

The Future is N.E.A.R. program is a customized education research experience designed to offer students a glimpse into the exciting world of nanotechnology and research.  The program offers its students an opportunity to gain 21st century skills that will prepare them to become successful leaders in a technological global society.  The students are encouraged to utilize their imagination and knowledge to design experiments relating to the development of polymer nanofibers for pure and applied research applications.  The program introduces the fundamentals of nanotechnology, scale, size and measurement, engineering research, and higher level thinking and application of knowledge to high school students while cultivating their interest in engineering, problem solving and life-long learning.  READ MORE