4-H Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET)

The Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET) Initiative

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The U.S. is at pivotal point in its history. Despite our rich legacy of innovation and global contributions, as a nation we are facing declining proficiencies in science, engineering, and technology (SET) and a significant workforce shortage in these critical fields. Too many of our nation’s young people do not have the science, engineering, and technology skills needed for careers in the twenty-first century. Nationwide, only 18% of high school seniors are considered proficient in science (NAEP, 2000), while a mere 5% of today’s college undergraduates earn degrees in science and engineering (Rising above the Gathering Storm, 2006).

The 4-H SET Initiative is the 4-H program’s response to our nation’s and state’s concern for improving human capacity and workforce abilities in the areas of science, engineering, and technology. It combines non-formal education with hands-on, inquiry-based learning in a youth development context to increase SET literacy and engage youth in improving their knowledge, skills and abilities in science, engineering and technology. 4-H SET combines the strengths of 4-H non-formal experiential-based delivery modes and strong youth-adult partnerships to address SET content and processes as defined by the National Science Education Standards.

The Power of the Wind

One new project area for 4-H members to pursue with the SET program is called The Power of the Wind. For more information on this exciting new project, click the following link http://projects.4-hcurriculum.org/curriculum/wind/default.aspx.