As part of our ongoing effort to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education, Battelle co-sponsored the Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK) Camp that was held in July at St. Stephen’s Community House. The day camp hosted 300 Columbus City School students in grades 5-8, specifically targeting those in the Linden area because it is the location of the new Linden-McKinley STEM Academy that opened this fall.
Students used engineering design principles as they built three design projects – a jet toy car, skimmer and glider – and utilized the “A World in Motion” curriculum developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers. Students participated in field studies that enhanced their curriculum and demonstrated STEM career pathways. Field studies included trips to COSI, Ohio State University and Central State University.
The SEEK program was led by National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) members, Linden-McKinley juniors and seniors and Columbus City School teachers. The Linden-McKinley junior and seniors that participated in this mentor program were part of the first class of Battelle STEM Scholars and were paid a $1,000 stipend for the SEEK Camp and training. SEEK mentors were trained by Society of American Engineers (SAE) representatives and Dr. Annalies Corbin with The Past Foundation. In addition, the Linden-McKinley students were part of a leadership development training in partnership with Greater Linden Development Corporation.
The SEEK Camp is a partnership between Columbus City Schools, Battelle, STEMColumbus, the National Society of Black Engineers, St. Stephen’s Community House, Ohio State University and the Ohio STEM Learning Network. The camp’s mission is to increase middle school students’ aptitude in math and science and their interest in pursuing STEM career fields by engaging them in interactive, team-based engineering projects.
To learn more about SEEK Camp and check out 2008 SEEK Camp photos, click here.
To experience the impact of NSBE on its members and communities, click here.