Enhancing STEM Student Learning: Exploring the Impact of International Science Competitions

Students exhibit distinct learning patterns when immersed in demanding environments, particularly within competitive settings, which offer an active, hands-on approach. Rather than passively absorbing theoretical concepts, students are prompted to apply their knowledge in time-sensitive competitions, catalyzing more agile, profound, and substantive learning experiences. These competitions cultivate essential competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and preparedness, effectively equipping students to confront diverse real-world challenges. The amalgamation of knowledge application, intrinsic motivation, and skill enhancement leads to more impactful, enduring learning outcomes for students. To address this need, we established the International Science Competition, designed for exceptional high school students worldwide to receive recognition for their endeavors in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Participants compete in the Computing, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Biology categories, complemented by conferences, STEM-related activities, and university tours. Held concurrently in over 30 locations across Mexico and Latin America and online for select international participants, the 2023 competition attracted over 1,900 students in its in-person format and nearly 700 online. Of these, 100 students reached the final phase, and 25 were awarded for exceptional performance. The study population was analyzed considering the exam STEM domain, exam modality (in-person or online), and the winners’ origin for the different subject areas. A perception survey was conducted to evaluate the participants’ learning experience and their satisfaction level with the event organization, the exam, and the activities provided. Most of the participants enjoyed the competition and would recommend other students to participate in it.