Dean Kamen (Deka Research Founder) – Working on the Big Problems That Matter the Most (Mar 2014)

Chapters

Abstract

Shaping the Future: Dean Kamen’s Revolutionary Approach to STEM Education through FIRST

In an era where education and competitiveness on a global scale are more critical than ever, Dean Kamen, a visionary innovator, has emerged as a transformative figure in the landscape of STEM education. His brainchild, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), encapsulates a radical approach to education, focusing on inspiring passion and curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This article delves into Kamen’s philosophy and the significant impact of FIRST on students’ educational and career paths, highlighting its contribution to promoting diversity, fostering industry partnerships, and enhancing community involvement, especially among women and underrepresented groups.

—

Dean Kamen’s Perspective on Education and STEM

Addressing Educational Challenges in America:

Dean Kamen emphasizes the urgent need for proactive engagement in shaping culture and society, criticizing the stagnation in addressing educational challenges, particularly in STEM. He believes that the issue is not about supply and demand but rather about demand and supply. He argues that there is a lack of demand among kids for science and technology, which leads to a lack of supply of qualified STEM professionals.

Global Educational Competition:

Kamen points to the rising global competition in STEM education, with countries worldwide investing heavily, a trend that should be viewed positively. He challenges the complacency in America’s competitiveness, advocating for active participation in the global educational race.

Demand for STEM Education:

Kamen suggests shifting the educational focus from supply-driven initiatives to creating a demand for STEM among students. He believes this can be done by making STEM cool and fun and showing kids how it can be used to solve real-world problems.

Cultural Influences:

Highlighting the influence of pop culture icons on children, Kamen contrasts this with the low visibility of scientists and engineers, underscoring the need for role models in STEM. He emphasizes the importance of an organization like FIRST to foster a passion for STEM, emphasizing its inherent appeal and the need to encourage women and minorities in these fields.

—

Bridging the Gap with FIRST

Captivating Young Minds:

FIRST, founded by Kamen, seeks to engage students in science and technology through a sports-like competitive model, recognizing the cultural obsession with sports and seeing an opportunity to channel this energy into promoting science and technology among young people. FIRST competitions are designed to be highly intense, extracurricular activities with a six to eight-week season, similar to traditional sports.

Role Models and Excitement:

The organization partners with entities like the NBA and technical experts to offer role models and demonstrate the excitement surrounding STEM careers. FIRST competitions are designed to provide a fun, nurturing, and exciting atmosphere that encourages kids to explore science and technology. Kamen emphasizes the need for young people to see older individuals engaged in science and technology to inspire them to pursue similar interests.

FIRST’s Vision and Hands-On Learning:

Kamen’s vision for FIRST was to ignite students’ passion for STEM through hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving in competitions. Kamen believed that hands-on experiences in technology and engineering would captivate students more effectively than traditional education methods. He emphasizes that FIRST aimed to create demand for STEM careers and impact culture through recognition and celebration.

Education-Industry Bridge:

FIRST bridges the gap between education and industry, fostering connections and real-world experience for students. FIRST competitions provide students with the opportunity to work with mentors from various industries, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, and develop valuable skills that can be applied in the workplace.

—

Evolution and Impact of FIRST

Origins and Growth:

Starting in a high school gym in 1992, FIRST rapidly expanded, hosting regional and international competitions. In 1992, the inaugural FIRST competition was held in Manchester, New Hampshire, with 20 teams participating. President Bush attended the event, highlighting the importance of STEM education. The competition showcased the potential of FIRST to engage students and create excitement around technology. As FIRST continued to grow, it faced challenges in finding venues large enough to accommodate the increasing number of teams. Disney World eventually reached its capacity, prompting FIRST to move the finals to larger venues such as the Astrodome in Houston and the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.

Achievements and Legacy:

FIRST has inspired a generation of STEM leaders, promoted diversity, and built strong partnerships across sectors. FIRST has experienced rapid growth in its early years, expanding from 20 teams to over 100 teams in just a few years. To accommodate the growing number of participants, FIRST introduced regional events and a final competition. Disney World’s Epcot hosted the finals for five consecutive years, attracting thousands of students and spectators. FIRST has grown exponentially since its inception, reaching over 10,500 teams and involving approximately 125,000 students annually. The organization has garnered widespread support from volunteers, scientists, engineers, and corporate sponsors, demonstrating its commitment to STEM education. FIRST has significantly increased the participation of women and minorities in STEM fields, with 38% of students on FIRST teams being female or from minority groups.

Data-Driven Results:

Collaborating with Brandeis University, FIRST’s data shows a significant impact on students’ educational and career choices, particularly among women, enhancing their likelihood of pursuing STEM careers. Kamen faced skepticism from educators who questioned FIRST’s educational value. He emphasized that FIRST aimed to create demand for STEM careers and impact culture through recognition and celebration.

—

Kamen’s Lasting Impact on STEM Education

Dean Kamen’s vision and the success of FIRST represent a paradigm shift in STEM education. By creating an ecosystem that blends excitement, competition, and hands-on experience, Kamen has not only addressed key educational challenges but also laid a foundation for nurturing future innovators and leaders. His approach underscores the importance of passion, role models, and industry involvement in education, setting a new standard for how STEM subjects are taught and perceived. As FIRST continues to grow, its legacy is evident in the lives of millions of students who have been empowered to pursue their dreams in STEM fields, contributing significantly to global innovation and technological progress.

Supplemental Data and Findings:

FIRST Robotics Competition, a program of FIRST, has expanded internationally, reaching 33 cities in several countries. The program’s impact has been studied by Brandeis University, with funding from the Ford Foundation. The study found that participation in FIRST Robotics Competition significantly influenced students’ education and career choices. Key findings include a 50% increase in the likelihood of attending college, a threefold increase in choosing engineering as a career, and a fourfold increase in pursuing careers in engineering or related fields. Additionally, the program has promoted diversity, with a significant increase in women pursuing engineering degrees and a higher rate of community involvement among participants.

Notes by: MatrixKarma