Can Digital Tools Facilitate Learning about CTE STEM Career Pathways for Middle Grades Students?
Abstract: This paper will discuss a pilot study investigating the initial promise of a Career and Technical Education (CTE) focused intervention implemented by school counselors with middle grades students The goals were to (1) improve school counselors’ ability to inform students of CTE STEM career pathways, (2) increase middle school students’ interest and knowledge of CTE STEM career pathways, and (3) solicit feedback on ways to improve the intervention itself. Following the intervention, school counselors were more knowledgeable and able to teach students about CTE pathways, and students improved on several indicators of career exploration. This research will guide the revision of these tools and provides insight into the beneficial characteristics that may be applied to future CTE interventions.