INSPIRE: An Integrated K-12 STEM Pipeline Approach to Improve Math and Science Achievement

INSPIRE is an integrated K-12 STEM pipeline approach focused on STEM course content and instructional redesign. INSPIRE uses problem-based learning (PBL) as the core of its curriculum redesign and addresses limitations in STEM education by providing early, continuous engagement via a STEM pipeline starting in Kindergarten and channeling students into integrated STEM magnet programs at both middle and high school levels. INSPIRE reduces selection bias and student interest factors by intentionally and automatically placing low-income, minority students in elementary STEM magnet schools located in their neighborhood. INSPIRE links PBL with interdisciplinary STEM course content connected to the Common Core and integrates PBL units across all courses to enable students to explore the same issue in every subject with student real-world tethers (connections beyond the classroom). INSPIRE connects PBL and digital course content to personalized and tech-enabled instructional practice to impact achievement and engagement. INSPIRE revolutionizes the teacher role from transmitter to a facilitator of knowledge via substantive