Program to Enhance Academic Excellence in STEM Disciplines

Winston-Salem State University, Winston Salem NC

Investigators

Abstract

Title: Achieving Academic Excellence in STEM Winston-Salem State University HRD 0308747 PI: Melvin Johnson Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) will enhance academic excellence in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines and increase the institution's graduation rate of minority students by 50% in selected STEM disciplines. This five-year effort consists of a comprehensive approach to strengthen WSSU's undergraduate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) instructional and research infrastructure with the goal of broadening the participation of underrepresented minorities in the STEM disciplines and workforce. To achieve this goal, WSSU will: (1) enhance the institution's technology infrastructure by establishing a Testing and Tutorial Center, integrating technology into STEM curricula, training faculty in the use of technology, and developing technology rich curricula; (2) establish a six-week Summer Outreach Science Academy to provide 40 highly motivated high school graduates per year with intensive training in physical science, mathematics, technology, and communication; (3) engage STEM students in undergraduate research and facilitate their successful transition to graduate study in STEM disciplines; and, (4) provide student support, mentoring, research assistantships, and other academic enhancements.