Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

In Maine, 4-Hers participate in animal sciences, robotics, environmental science and energy, GIS/GPS, and digital media.

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Animal Sciences: Maine 4-H has a vibrant animal science program that is supported by over 60 4-H volunteers. We offer educational opportunities and hands-on learning about beef, sheep, dairy livestock, goats, dogs, horses, poultry, and working steers. See our new 4-H Egg Business Project!

Citizen Science Opportunities: Citizen science opportunities are ways to promote science learning through participation in gathering data, making observations and contributions to research. Citizen science projects encourage youth and volunteers to gather specific types of data and report the data to scientists. Introductory training is typically provided so no prior experience is needed. Participation contributes to education and science literacy for the public and allows scientists access to unique data collection. Learn more about citizen science projects connected with UMaine Extension 4-H.

Environmental Science and Energy: Maine 4-H offers experiential learning about the environment through outdoor education activities, camp and learning centers, and science experiments. Programs include water conservation, wind power, phenology, and more!

The Maine Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) is designed to teach Maine’s youth (ages 8-19) about the fundamentals of wildlife management. Students in WHEP have a greater understanding of the value of land and how it can be managed to benefit many wildlife and fish species.

volunteers work with 4-Hers on wind power project; photo by Edwin Remsberg, USDA Power of the Wind: The University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H Power of Wind program uses wind power to teach youth concepts in science, engineering, and technology.

Solar Sprint: a fun, interactive way to teach principles of renewable energy and the engineering design process; as students create solar-powered model cars. The top cars from each participating school/site are invited to attend the state race where they are raced for top speed and judged on innovation, design, craftsmanship, and other categories. This program strives to increase youth’s interest in STEM related topics and careers.

Technology and Engineering: Maine 4-H gives youth the opportunity to use technology in applied science. We have an established GIS/GPS program that includes access to GPS technology and introductory mapping. Youth can learn about digital media and how to apply it to community development. Robotics is a growing project area that builds math and engineering skills and gives kids the opportunity to look into the future.

Contact your local UMaine Extension county office to learn more about the opportunities available in your area.

What’s happening nationally: National 4-H STEM and Agriculture.

UMaine K-12 Outreach: In a given year, the faculty and staff at the University of Maine connect with tens of thousands of youth and educators. Through campus tours, classroom visits, professional development workshops, summer camps, and curriculum development initiatives, students from all over the state of Maine, and in some cases the country, are introduced to the unique programs the University of Maine has to offer!