HEI is excited to congratulate Wayne State University (WSU) and the Belle Isle Conservancy (BIC) on their project video being chosen for the 2020 STEM for All Video Showcase! The online film festival highlights innovations in STEM education from programs funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and other federal agencies.
HEI worked with WSU to evaluate the project featured in the video: the NSF-funded ITEST (Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers) project, “Promoting Student Interest in Science and Science Careers Through a Scalable Place-based Environmental Program at a Public Aquarium.” This innovative initiative provides immersive learning opportunities for the city of Detroit’s fifth-grade teachers and students to increase minority students’ exposure to STEM careers.
The project’s activities take place at the Belle Isle Aquarium, operated by the BIC, and include:
- A four-day summer teacher institute.
- ‘Mini’ grants offered to summer institute participants.
- Class field trips for fifth-grade students. (Note: Following COVID-19 school closures, virtual field trips were made available.)
HEI prepared a report documenting the entire life cycle of this project and offered recommendations for moving forward. We’re excited to see its future.
If you’d like to learn more about this project or our services, please contact us!
