Outdoor Recreation: Connecting Rural Youth with STEM Careers
Abstract
This 15-month pilot study, led by CAST and the University of New Hampshire in partnership with outdoor-recreation and informal STEM organizations, explored how the growing outdoor recreation (OR) economy can serve as a meaningful context for strengthening STEM identities and pathways among underrepresented rural youth ages 13–15 in New Hampshire. Using experience sampling, photovoice, and community interviews, the project investigated how OR settings can broaden STEM participation, expand career possibilities, and reflect the perspectives of youth, families, educators, OR professionals, and STEM experts. Grounded in an asset-based approach that aligns STEM learning with rural cultural values, the study examined how OR can help youth navigate longstanding “stay vs. leave” identity tensions while connecting them to emerging regional opportunities. Funded by the National Science Foundation (DRL# 2213919)
Publication Date
2-20-2024
Document Type
Video
Recommended Citation
CAST, "Outdoor Recreation: Connecting Rural Youth with STEM Careers" (2024). New Hampshire Youth Retention Initiative. 2.
https://scholars.unh.edu/nh_youth_retention_initiative/2