Action Group Four - Programs

STEM Explorers
The STEMM Explorers program will being in the Fall, 2008, delivering high-quality, engaging, instructional programming in STEM areas to students in NW Ohio in grades 3-8. Videoconferencing (distance learning) will be the mode of delivery for this Bill Nye The Science Guy– like program, bringing innovative investigations to students in cooperation with classroom teachers. During each session, teachers will work alongside scientists and program staff (teachers on-site, scientists off-site) to deliver inquiry-based explorations to students. Teachers will follow-up each session with extension lessons provided by the program. A sequence of topics will be available for each grade level to schedule across the school year, including a focus on STEM Careers, but more specifically on the Ohio Academic Content Standards in Science. Loaner equipment will be provided to schools who do not have necessary technology on-site. A module for the lesson will be delivered to the teacher prior to the scheduled broadcast data. Additionally, professional development will be provided (brief or extended) for the teacher to help prepare them for the STEMM Explorers Experience. The program will be delivered by actual scientists, engineers, and teachers in residence at UT, members of the community, as well as students.

STEMM Teacher Summer Academy 2009
This group is also developing a STEMM Teacher Summer Academy to be offered in Summer 2009 to elementary teachers of science in Northwest Ohio.