Informal Learning and Afterschool | STELAR - STEM Learning and Research Center

Textured Tactile 3D Prints of Astronomical Data for the Career Exploration Lab and Other Applications

Curricular Materials

Whirlpool Galaxy HST image and 3D model Print

Astronomy has been a fascinating subject for the public for centuries and can stimulate deep questions not only on our own origin but subtly the richness of science and mathematics. It also is a science that is associated with engineering and technology to probe the universe.Typically, astronomical data is translated into visual representations for analysis and general public communication. Unfortunately, this practice is problematic for individuals with blindness or visual impairment (B/VI). In response, we transformed astronomical research data and models into textured 3D prints for tactile

Using Informed Design in Informal Computer Science Programs to Increase Youths’ Interest, Self-efficacy, and Perceptions of Parental Support

Publication

Our work is situated in research on Computer Science (CS) learning in informal learning environments and literature on the factors that influence girls to enter CS. In this article, we outline design choices around the creation of a summer programming camp for middle school youth. In addition, we describe a near-peer mentoring model we used that was influenced by Bandura's self-efficacy theory. The purpose of this article, apart from promoting transparency of program design, was to evaluate the effectiveness of our camp design in terms of increasing youths’ interest, self-efficacy beliefs, and

K–8 STEM Career Competencies:  Developing Foundational Skills for the Future of Work  Q&A Session Webinar #2

Event

On November 17, 2021, STELAR held a Q&A Webinar Session to engage in a discussion of the K-8 STEM Career Competencies Framework. Authors responded to inquires about use and best practices, and participants shared their own resources and perspectives.

NSF Q&A Office Hours for 2021 ITEST Solicitation Applicants, Hosted by STELAR

Event

On July 21, STELAR will host NSF Program Officers Robert Russell, Gavin Fulmer, and Alicia Santiago. This session is the second session in a 3 part series, designed for those planning to submit proposals on August 13, 2021. This will be an “office hours” style discussion and will be geared towards answering general questions around completing the required proposal sections and finalizing your submission. Questions that are submitted in advance, and questions posed during the office hours will be addressed throughout the office hours session.

NSF Q&A Office Hours for 2021 ITEST Solicitation Applicants, Hosted by STELAR

Event

On July 14 and July 21, STELAR will host NSF Program Officers Robert Russell, Gavin Fulmer, and Alicia Santiago for two general questions sessions designed for those planning to submit proposals on August 13, 2021. This will be an “office hours” style discussion and will be geared towards answering general questions around completing the required proposal sections and finalizing your submission. Questions that are submitted in advance, and questions posed during the office hours will be addressed throughout the office hours session.

2021 ITEST Solicitation Webinar: Solicitation Overview

Video

On June 30, STELAR hosted National Science Foundation Program Officers for an informative webinar on the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) Program’s Solicitation (NSF 19-583). During this webinar NSF Program Officers Bob Russell, Alicia Santiago, and Gavin Fulmer

2021 ITEST Solicitation Webinar - How to Write a Competitive Proposal

Event

On Wednesday, July 7, STELAR hosted National Science Foundation Program Officers for the second webinar on the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) Program’s Solicitation (NSF 19-583).

2021 ITEST Solicitation Webinar: Solicitation Overview

Event

On June 30, STELAR hosted National Science Foundation Program Officers for a series of informative webinars on the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) Program’s Solicitation (NSF 19-583). During this webinar NSF Program Officers Bob Russell, Alicia Santiago, and Gavin Fulmer, reviewed the goals of the ITEST program, highlighted key aspects of the solicitation, and provided guidance on developing a competitive proposal.

Boston College Master’s Program in Learning Engineering is Seeking Applicants

11 December, 2020 News

STELAR is happy to share the following opportunity from our colleagues at Boston College’s Lynch School of Education and Human Development. Please share with your networks! M.A in Learning EngineeringInterdisciplinary, experiential, and forward-thinking, the Master of Arts in Learning Engineering program at Boston College prepares students to design engaging learning experiences that are informed by the learning sciences and incorporate cutting

STELAR Webinars: 2020 NSF ITEST Solicitation and Q&A Session

Event

In April and May of 2020, STELAR hosted National Science Foundation Program Officers for a series of informative webinars on the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) Program’s Solicitation (NSF 19-583). View the presentation, slides, and additional resources provided during these events.

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