Project Description:
During the pandemic, the educational needs of NH students, students with disabilities (SWD), gifted and talented (G/T) students, and students living in economically disadvantaged or rural areas were largely neglected. Work-based learning was also limited due to worksite closures. Parents were challenged with limited access to educational resources and supports in helping their teens remote learning while navigating the pandemic crisis. To address the challenges and achieve the goal, the project will create hui at local NH communities on the islands of Oahu, Hawaiʻi , Molokai, Maui, and Kauaʻi for Hōkūlani scholars (i.e., NH high school students having potential in STEM) and provide differentiated Hōkūlani Program. Hōkūlani Hui will consist of kūpuna, parents, academic/cultural mentors, mentors for SWD and G/T, internship mentors, science instructors, local high school and college personnel, ʻohana engagement liaisons, technology support persons, academic tutors, and Community of Practice (COP) members. Outcomes: The project will positively impact students psychological factors (growth and benefit mindsets, grit, cultural competence, attitudes toward STEM learning), leading to behavioral changes (engagement, behaviors like the scientifically gifted) and cognitive improvement (STEM literacy and achievement). These positive experiences will be translated into enhanced STEM self-efficacy and identity that will contribute to their increased aspiration to enter postsecondary STEM fields.
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote
