ERIC Number: EJ1473021
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1526-2367
EISSN: EISSN-1557-5284
Available Date: 0000-00-00
The Business of Science: A Cross-Disciplinary, Project-Based Teamwork Approach to Workforce Development
Helen Boylan; Alison L. DuBois; Brian Petrus
Journal of STEM Education: Innovations and Research, v26 n1 p58-64 2025
In recent years, employers have expressed concerns that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) graduates, though proficient in their academic disciplines, lack the critical skills necessary for success in the workplace (Karimi & Pina, 2021). Additionally, many non-STEM majors do not develop the basic STEM competencies that could help them succeed in the workplace (Jang, 2016). Regarding soft skill development, a significant gap exists between what many employers want and expect of soon-to-be college graduates and what most college curricula offer (Rhew et al., 2019). To address these needs, the researchers developed an interdisciplinary, project-based experience known as the Environmental Project Management Academy (EPMA) that targeted sophomore and junior undergraduates pursuing either STEM or business majors. This paper outlines the curricular architecture, assessment methodologies, and institutional transferability associated with the 14-week, semester-long EPMA program.
Descriptors: Student Projects, Active Learning, Teamwork, Undergraduate Students, STEM Education, Business Education, College Curriculum, Evaluation Methods, Job Skills, Soft Skills, Interdisciplinary Approach, Cluster Grouping, Environmental Education, Program Administration, Student Evaluation
Institute for STEM Education and Research. P.O. Box 4001, Auburn, AL 36831. Tel: 334-844-3360; Web site: https://www.jstem.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Pennsylvania
Grant or Contract Numbers: 1712028
Author Affiliations: N/A