The Future of Education in the United States: Emulating the Billion Oyster Curriculum and Community Environmental Restoration Science (STEM + Computer Science) for Secondary School Success

Abstract

Recent educational developments on the national and regional scale have called for a radical transformation. New York State is reassessing the qualifications needed for high school students to attain a diploma. The federal government is threatening to abolish the United States Department of Education. For students to be prepared to face the challenges of the global economic landscape, several 21st-century skills will be needed. The Billion Oyster Curriculum and Community Environmental Restoration Science (STEM + Computer Science) offers a multifaceted, content-rich, community problem-based model that provides a pattern for similar community involvement while incorporating the competencies and skills needed to become successful in higher education and employment. Student exposure and confidence in STEM content and computational skills enhance their awareness of this as a possible career choice. A student survey which contains a confidence in technological abilities subscale was administered to all subjects of this study.