What in the World is a STEM Lab?

What in the World is a STEM Lab?

You might be wondering if we are testing plants in a new biology lab of some
sort….. That would be cool, but no, that is not the type of STEM Lab we
are planning.  STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and
Math.

 In September, 2010, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and
Technology (PCAST), created a report for the President that states, “We must
prepare students so they have a strong foundation in STEM subjects and are
able to use this knowledge in their personal and professional lives. And we
must inspire students so that all are motivated to study STEM subjects in
school and many are excited about the prospect of having careers in STEM
fields”. (President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. 2010. Report to the President  PREPARE AND INSPIRE: K-12 EDUCATION IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH (STEM) FOR AMERICA’S FUTURE. pg.V. )

 The Museum of Aviation has been presenting programs for students and
educators since 1984 when the museum first opened.  Education has always
been an important mission of the museum.  The programs have grown over the
years, and we are proud that history, science, technology, engineering and
math have been the foundation of our curriculum.   STEM Labs will focus
directly on specific questions that challenge students to think, hypothesize
and experiment their way to a solution.

.       Oct 7                Rocketry

.       Oct 29              Chemistry

.       Dec 17             Flight

.       Feb 24             Air Traffic Control

.       Apr 6                Computer Components

 All STEM labs are open to 6th – 9th grade students.  The programs will be
held in the Century of Flight Hangar at the Museum of Aviation.  Each STEM
Lab costs $20.

 Below is the complete schedule of Fall and Winter Programs.  All programs
are 9am until noon.  Prices vary. Call 478-926-5558 or email
jgombos@museumofaviation.org to register.

October 7                    1st-2nd              Culinary Kids

October 7                    6th-9th               Rocketry STEM Lab

October 29                  PreK-5th           Spooky Science

October 29                  6th-9th               Chemistry STEM Lab

November 22               1st-2nd              Thanksgiving Holiday Fun

December 17               PreK-5th           Science with Santa

December 17               6th-9th               Flight STEM Lab

Now that I think about it, a STEM class on stems could be pretty fun too!
Call us for more information on any of our programs..there is always a lot
going on at the Museum of Aviation!

– Melissa G. Spalding

  Director of Education

  478-926-0247  Office

  478-954-1915   Cell