- Year 2017
- NSF Award #1557250
- Registration Current Noyce Scholar
- First Name Sarah
- Last Name Donley
- Discipline Biology
- Institution Ohio State University
- School Name and District Currently Teaching Columbus City Schools
Abstract
Ohio State University Noyce Fellows participated in a summer field experience at COSI Informal Science Center presenting discovery hands-on learning opportunities using existing STEM carts. This provided the fellows with the opportunity to practice engaging people with science and math content, using language appropriate to the prior knowledge of the visitors, and testing a variety of approaches with the same content. The carts’ purpose is to engage visitors and connect them to STEM learning through discussion and hands-on activities. They aim to extend experience beyond ordinary STEM activities while keeping the experience real and relevant. Following the summer field experience, the Noyce Fellows worked with COSI to design new STEM carts for future use. The task of creating these carts enriched Fellows? understanding of the STEM topics, planning of pedagogy and the role of informal education in our community. The partnership provides more knowledgeable summer volunteers for COSI, a stronger partnership between COSI, the university, and community schools, and a source of new ideas and teaching tools for the science center.
