Scientists
and engineers are considered true superheroes in society. They develop ideas
and build things that
are fun and interesting, and provide us with knowledge
to extend human life and our capacity for exploration. As much as they can
improve our lives they can also do considerable harm. It is this bifurcation of
the idea of science and engineering in education, and the opportunity to show
students the “power” of what they are learning as well as the responsibility to
use that “power” for the betterment of humanity that led Audrey Buttice and
Samuel DuPont to create Scientific League LLC, a company which aims to deliver science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics, or STEM-related knowledge primarily
to elementary aged students.
Buttice
and DuPont thereon came up with the idea of developing lessons using
multimedia. They toyed with many ideas (Pirates, Clowns, Lab Rats, and even
Detectives), and finally struck upon the idea of Superheroes while standing in
line for a ride at Walt Disney World. Soon after, Buttice and DuPont cracked
open the idea for the next project, their company’s first creation, the
Superhero Training Network.
The
Superhero Training Network is a series of materials and resources designed to
enhance student
engagement in STEM-related topics and provide trainers
(teachers) with a solid network of educational support. In its superficial form
it is a series of videos and printed materials designed by people with a solid
background in STEM, and created with a focus on engaging student interest and
enhancing a teacher’s ability to convey core STEM concepts. Superhero Training
Network materials follow both the Sunshine State Standards (current Florida
education standards) and the new Next Generation Science Standards. One of the
goals of the program is to form a community of educational professionals that
have various degrees of experience in educational techniques and STEM related
subjects which act as resources for the educational community without requiring
an unreasonable time commitment.
engagement in STEM-related topics and provide trainers
(teachers) with a solid network of educational support. In its superficial form
it is a series of videos and printed materials designed by people with a solid
background in STEM, and created with a focus on engaging student interest and
enhancing a teacher’s ability to convey core STEM concepts. Superhero Training
Network materials follow both the Sunshine State Standards (current Florida
education standards) and the new Next Generation Science Standards. One of the
goals of the program is to form a community of educational professionals that
have various degrees of experience in educational techniques and STEM related
subjects which act as resources for the educational community without requiring
an unreasonable time commitment.
Primary
modes of instruction include full video lessons, small video segments,
textbook/reader style “Training Manuals”, activity kits, and paper-based puzzles,
quizzes, and challenges. “Our country, and the entire world, will rely heavily
on STEM careers in the future. Encouraging students at a young age to fulfill
this need will ensure a strong workforce for our country as the world continues
to make vast strides in technological advancements.”
To
date, they have produced six full episodes, lasting 20-30 minutes, which
include science-based interviews with the cast and segments on science in the
community. “We plan to continue production after the core series, developing
videos that focus on a specific topic in its entirety” Buttice and DuPont said.
Additionally, they plan to create more “segmented” videos which tackle basic
concepts in a short and meaningful manner to encourage students to be excited
about STEM concepts.
Use
of Superhero Training Network materials have greatly expanded since its
inception. In 2011, the initial year, STN materials were used in four
Hillsborough County schools. This year, 24 Hillsborough County schools will be
using the materials. “Our hope is that students recognize how fun STEM topics
can be and prime their minds to learn so that they develop a life-long passion
for STEM learning and activity.” Of
the students who have used the program, over 80% reported an enjoyable experience
and 2/3 expressed desire to access STN themed materials from home. On
curriculum relevant topics, an overall average increase of 15% in student
knowledge has been noted.
The
goals of FLATE are closely aligned with Science League as both organizations
are focused on
encouraging students to explore STEM based opportunities.
Science League has been working with FLATE on a variety of video production projects
aimed at encouraging students to pursue technical and manufacturing workforce. These
videos will also provide students with an idea of the types of jobs available
to them in their state as well as what these corporations look for when hiring
new technical employees. “We have really enjoyed working with FLATE and plan to
continue partnering with them on other projects that our multi-media expertise
can benefit” Buttice said.
For
more information on the Scientific League and the Super Hero Training Network
visit http://www.scientificleague.com/,
or contact Sam DuPont (sam@scientificleague.com) and Audrey Buttiice (Audrey@scientificleague.com). For more information on FLATE and STEM based projects visit www.fl-ate.org and madeinflorida.org, or
contact Dr. Marilyn Barger@fl-ate.org.
No comments :
Post a Comment