Using virtual machines in a K-12 Outreach program to increase interest in information security fields

With projected high growth in STEM occupations and the desire to keep the U.S. competitive in the global economy, there are many initiatives in STEM education to develop highly skilled workers. In addition to preparing for careers in the STEM fields, it is being more and more recognized that STEM training is a valuable part of an education in any field. The study of STEM fields can lead to the development of valuable problem-solving skills, as well as critical and analytical thinking. Students learn to solve new problems and draw conclusions based upon previously learned principles in STEM studies. Additionally, there are many jobs that are STEM-related, that is not directly in a STEM field but requiring some form of STEM skills. The Information Sciences and Technology (IST) and Security and Risk Analysis (SRA) programs at Penn State Berks recognize the importance of STEM curriculum to education, employment, and the filling of industry demands. In addition to supporting this education through our own programs, we realize that the development of these skills, as well as the nurturing of interest in these fields, must start well before a student enters college. In order to support this, we have implemented an annual Summer Camp that focuses on the development of interest and skills in STEM fields in the K-12 environment across a diversity of backgrounds.

Introduction

It is widely accepted that gaining skills in STEM fields can benefit students for career success, overall academic success, and intellectual development. Most studies and reports of the top projected careers, in terms of demand as well as salary, list a high number of STEM careers. According to the Economics and Statistics Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are projected to grow by 17.0 percent from 2008 to 2018, compared to 9.8 percent growth for non-STEM occupations. Additionally, STEM workers earn 26 percent more than their non-STEM counterparts [1]. A February 2012 by President Obama's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology projected that more than one million new STEM graduates will be needed to fill high-tech jobs in the U.S. [2].