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Summer camp deepens middle school students’, teachers’ STEM skills

June 20, 2018

Contact:
Brittney Dabney, 334.724.4552, Office of Communications, Public Relations and Marketing, 91ƷƵ
  

Fly High Summer Program participants standing in front of airplane on campusA summer camp hosted by 91ƷƵ’s Mathematics Department and Aerospace Science Engineering Department is just one of the university’s various summer enrichment opportunities encouraging students to learn beyond the classroom, as well as gain real-world experience.

The week-long program, ‘Fly High your Math and Science Skills,’ is designed to provide Macon County students in 7th and 8th grades with the opportunity to develop vital skills in mathematics and engineering.

Dr. Chadia Aji, professor of the Department of Mathematics, and Dr. Javed Khan, head of the Department of Aerospace Science Engineering are both heading the initiative.

“The purpose of the program is to demonstrate to students in rural areas of Alabama the importance of STEM-related activities,” Aji said. “We also hope participating in the program helps to stimulate their minds toward considering careers in these disciplines,” said Aji.

Participants, whose participation in the camp is free as a result of grant funding, will enjoy activities designed to strengthen science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, innovation, collaboration, and communication.

One of the program’s highlights is the students’ ability to fly various missions on the flight simulator.

“The simulator is a favorite for students — its provides hands-on experience and allows us to better connect math and science concepts for them,” added Khan.

In addition to summer camp programming for students, middle school teachers also receive helpful science and mathematics education training they can employ in their classrooms.

“We want teachers to incorporate technology into their instruction, so they can better engage students in class and enhance their understanding of math and science concepts,” said Aji.

The project is funded by the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) program of the National Science Foundation (NSF). “This is the second year for the program, and it continues to be an outstanding learning opportunity that will greatly benefit teachers and students alike, as well as prepare students for career opportunities in the STEM fields,” Khan said.

To learn more about the program visit  /programs-courses/colleges-schools/coe/aerospace-science-engineering/fly-high-your-math-and-science-skills.

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