Multimedia Gallery
Students performing experiments in the classroom
The STEM "spark" -- something that grabs young people's interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics -- starts at an early age. From performing simple science experiments in a classroom, such as the students pictured here, to a greater moment of inspiration, such as viewing the first image of a black hole, the STEM spark is the moment a child becomes curious and wants to learn more about the world around them. Sparking scientific curiosity at a young age is important to prepare a diverse STEM workforce for our nation’s future.
Learn more in the NSF Director's Op-Ed Sparking scientific curiosity and recruiting talent for the benefit of our nation. (Date image taken: June 2016; date originally posted to NSF Multimedia Gallery: July 20, 2018)
Credit: Christina S. Murrey, College of Education, University of Texas at Austin
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