STUDENTS INNOVATE FOR A BETTER AMERICA – CHALLENGE APPEAL! Looking for ideas for student science projects from all scientists/engineers.
In September, 2010, Allegro Productions, Inc., in collaboration with our partner the National Museum of Education (NMOE), will launch STUDENTS INNOVATE FOR A BETTER AMERICA COMPETITION©: CONNECTING THE SCIENCE AND EDUCATIONAL COMMUNITY THROUGH VIRTUAL OUTREACH, an interactive, internet-based program targeting students in communities traditionally under-represented in science.
The objective is to foster an understanding of the impact science has as a driving force in America’s economy, while encouraging students to consider a challenging career in science. The program is being funded through a grant from the Motorola Foundation and poses an interesting opportunity for scientists such as yourself.
At the core of this program is a competition that invites middle and senior high school science classes, in Motorola communities, to propose solutions to a variety of challenges posed by business leaders on NMOE’s web-based challenge list. We know you share our commitment to STEM education, and invite you to participate in this program by submitting an idea for a challenge or volunteering to serve as a Virtual Scientist Mentor as a part of the Virtual Scientist Guest Lecture Series™. Schools have the opportunity to win $1,000 in cash for their science program if their entry is selected for one of the three top prizes.
Some basic parameters for the challenge:
- Challenges have to be within the capacity of middle school (grades 6 -8) or high school (grades 9 – 12) students.
- Not require large purchases of equipment or materials.
- Encourage students to work in teams building on the strengths of the individual members.
Some basic parameters for Virtual Scientist Mentor:
- Volunteers should report to their assigned school for an initial orientation on Wednesday, October 13. This visit can be in person or virtually via Skype™.
- Thereafter, all visits will take place via Skype™ or videoconference.
- “Virtual mentor” estimated time commitment: two “virtual visits” to the assigned school per month; each approx 30 minutes in length.
The NMOE website has some challenges already listed to give you some ideas:
http://www.nmoe.org/students/list.htm
Please submit ideas to:
National Museum of Education, Akron, OH
info@nmoe.org
Please insert: MOTOROLA CHALLENGE in the subject line
Or call: GAY EVANS at 330-376-8300
If you would like to volunteer in the Virtual Scientist Guest Lecture Series™, please respond with your contact information and we will send you information as to how you can sign up to be a Virtual Scientist Mentor.
Our deadline for submissions is Friday, September 24, 2010.
Thanks so much for your ideas and for sharing this information with those who might find it of interest.
All the best,
On behalf of Scott J. Forman, President,