A new program to spur interest in space and aerospace-related subjects for K-12 students in Iowa will be led by various entities including the Iowa Space Grant Consortium – with funding from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
The proposal for “Launchpad to Tomorrow: Expanding STEM Access for Youth Through Catalyst Mission Ready Space Camps” has been selected to receive support through Iowa State’s Extension and Outreach Catalyst Program – one of eight proposals selected for the 2024 term. Sara Nelson, Director of the NASA-supported Iowa Space Grant Consortium in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, is leading the effort.
The excitement of space and aerospace for underserved youth
Launchpad to Tomorrow will focus on youth in rural and typically underserved communities in Iowa and will develop a mobile learning module that simulates a NASA mission and highlights a variety of STEM careers. It will include a multi-day space workshop held in conjunction with the Iowa 4-H Youth Development annual conference at Iowa State University. This camp will offer youth the opportunity to interact with a variety of STEM role models while taking part in STEM experiences.
The program will feature many hands-on and interactive resources which will immerse students in realistic activities that reflect space and aerospace-related knowledge. It will include industry partners and Department of Aerospace Engineering researchers. Collaborators in the program include: Iowa 4-H Youth Development; Collins Aerospace; NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium; Iowa State University College of Engineering; Iowa State University College of Design; Iowa State University College of Human Sciences; Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum; Iowa Educational Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Iowa Children’s Museum; and Erickson Public Library.
The effort will be dispersed throughout the state through a mobile learning platform and will help with an increase of equity in educational opportunity. Economic impact will be realized as the program connects youth with Iowa’s aerospace industry and aerospace research at Iowa State University.