Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a nonprofit organization that empowers students to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. With a focus on hands-on, project-based learning, PLTW provides students with real-world experiences that prepare them for college and career success. Founded in 1997, PLTW has grown to become one of the leading providers of STEM education programs in the United States, serving over 12,000 schools and 4 million students across the country.
PLTW’s Approach to STEM Education
PLTW’s approach to STEM education is centered around four core principles: activity-based learning, project-based learning, problem-based learning, and competency-based progression. These principles are designed to engage students in the learning process, promote critical thinking and problem-solving, and ensure that students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in STEM fields. PLTW’s programs are also aligned with national and state standards, ensuring that students are well-prepared for college and career readiness.
PLTW’s Programs
PLTW offers a range of programs for students in grades K-12, including PLTW Launch for elementary school students, PLTW Gateway for middle school students, and PLTW Engineering, PLTW Computer Science, and PLTW Biomedical Science for high school students. Each program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in STEM fields, with a focus on hands-on, project-based learning. For example, PLTW Engineering provides students with the opportunity to design, build, and test solutions to real-world problems, while PLTW Computer Science teaches students the fundamentals of computer programming and software development.
| Program | Grade Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PLTW Launch | K-5 | Introduces elementary school students to STEM concepts through hands-on activities and projects |
| PLTW Gateway | 6-8 | Provides middle school students with a comprehensive education in STEM fields, with a focus on project-based learning |
| PLTW Engineering | 9-12 | Teaches high school students the fundamentals of engineering and design, with a focus on hands-on, project-based learning |
| PLTW Computer Science | 9-12 | Introduces high school students to the fundamentals of computer programming and software development |
| PLTW Biomedical Science | 9-12 | Provides high school students with a comprehensive education in biomedical science, with a focus on hands-on, project-based learning |
Impact of PLTW on Student Success
Studies have shown that PLTW has a significant impact on student success, particularly in terms of college and career readiness. According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, students who participate in PLTW programs are more likely to pursue STEM fields in college and are better prepared for the demands of college-level coursework. Additionally, PLTW students have been shown to outperform their peers on standardized tests, including the SAT and ACT.
PLTW’s Impact on Diversity and Inclusion
PLTW has also been recognized for its efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. By providing students from underrepresented groups with access to high-quality STEM education programs, PLTW is helping to address the persistent gap in STEM representation. According to a report by the National Science Foundation, PLTW has been successful in increasing the representation of women and minorities in STEM fields, with a particular focus on increasing diversity in engineering and computer science programs.
- PLTW has been recognized for its efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, including being named a Champion of Change by the White House
- PLTW has partnered with organizations such as the National Society of Black Engineers and the Society of Women Engineers to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM fields
- PLTW has developed a range of resources and tools to support teachers in promoting diversity and inclusion in the classroom, including a Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit and a Culturally Responsive Teaching Guide
What is the cost of implementing PLTW programs in a school or district?
+The cost of implementing PLTW programs in a school or district varies depending on a range of factors, including the size of the school or district, the number of students being served, and the level of support and resources required. However, PLTW offers a range of pricing options and financing models to help make its programs accessible to schools and districts of all sizes and budgets.
How do PLTW programs align with national and state standards?
+PLTW programs are aligned with national and state standards, including the Next Generation Science Standards and the Common Core State Standards. PLTW also works closely with state and national education leaders to ensure that its programs are aligned with emerging standards and initiatives, such as the Every Student Succeeds Act.
What kind of support and resources does PLTW offer to teachers and schools?
+PLTW offers a range of support and resources to teachers and schools, including professional development opportunities, curriculum and instructional support, and technical support. PLTW also provides teachers and schools with access to a range of online resources and tools, including a virtual community of practice and a repository of lesson plans and activity ideas.
In conclusion, Project Lead The Way is a highly effective program for empowering student success in STEM fields. With its focus on hands-on, project-based learning and its commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion, PLTW is helping to prepare students for college and career success in a rapidly changing world. By providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in STEM fields, PLTW is also helping to address the persistent gap in STEM representation and promote greater diversity and inclusion in these fields.
