The Crockett Foundation is on a mission to empower students to excel in the field of technology by providing them with the necessary skills and resources to succeed. Through their Coding in Academics (CIA) program, now known as Digital Explorers, the foundation has been able to expose students from under-resourced communities to the world of STEAM education and tech-powered career pathways.
Fostering Curiosity and Exploration
One of the key aspects of the Crockett Foundation’s approach is to cultivate a sense of STEAM curiosity among students by encouraging them to explore new ideas and concepts. By exposing students to a variety of subjects within the STEAM fields, the foundation aims to spark their interest and passion for technology and innovation. This curiosity-driven approach has proven to be successful in engaging students and helping them develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of different disciplines.
Incorporating PBL and Makerspaces
The foundation also emphasizes the importance of using project-based learning (PBL) and makerspaces to enhance students’ learning experiences. By integrating hands-on projects and collaborative activities across the curriculum, students are able to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop practical skills. This approach not only reinforces classroom learning but also encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
Free STEAM Education Resources
To further nurture student curiosity and provide additional support, the Crockett Foundation offers three free STEAM education resources for students. These resources include online courses, workshops, and educational materials designed to enhance students’ understanding of STEAM subjects and help them explore new areas of interest. By making these resources accessible to students, the foundation aims to empower them to continue their learning journey beyond the classroom.
Empowering Students for Future Careers
Through its enrichment field trips and exposure to various STEM and technology-related industries, the Crockett Foundation is preparing students for future careers in the ever-evolving tech landscape. By providing students with unique experiential learning opportunities and expanding their understanding of STEAM careers, the foundation is shaping the next generation of innovators and leaders in the field of technology. The foundation’s focus on high expectations and inspiring young people to explore technology career pathways is essential in helping students realize their full potential and become catalysts for change in their communities.
Interdisciplinary Approach to STEAM Education
The foundation’s Digital Explorers program takes an interdisciplinary approach to STEAM education, encouraging students to connect multiple disciplines and explore the intersections between different subjects. By offering a diverse range of activities and projects under four subject matter pillars, students are able to gain a holistic understanding of STEAM concepts and develop a well-rounded skill set. Projects like coding microbits and designing web pages require students to apply multiple intelligences and areas of knowledge, fostering a sense of creativity and enrichment in their learning experience.
Creating an Exploratory Setting
In order to facilitate this interdisciplinary approach, the Crockett Foundation believes in creating an exploratory setting where students are encouraged to experiment, imagine, and apply their creativity. The foundation’s Innovation Lab, equipped with mobile furniture, smart TVs, laptops, and game consoles, provides students with a collaborative and flexible learning environment where they can engage in hands-on activities and explore new technologies. By offering a judgment-free zone where students can make mistakes and learn from them, the foundation ensures that students feel empowered to take risks and push the boundaries of their learning.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators
With a strong belief in exploration, experimentation, and education, the Crockett Foundation is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of inventors, technical entrepreneurs, engineers, and designers. By providing students with the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities to excel in the field of technology, the foundation is paving the way for a future where young people are empowered to make a difference in the world through their innovation and creativity. Through their commitment to fostering curiosity, exploration, and learning, the Crockett Foundation is shaping a brighter future for students from under-resourced communities and beyond.