University Students Become Superheroes To Teach STEM Education

Posted by Soulskill on Wednesday June 20, 2012 @08:28AM from the able-to-explain-complex-theories-in-a-single-class dept.

New submitter sjdupont writes "A trio of University of South Florida (USF) engineering graduate students have decided to make a change in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in an unusual and exciting way: by creating their own superhero personas and dressing in costumes as members of the Scientific League of Superheroes. Focused on elementary education, they have created a unique education program called the Superhero Training Network, a curriculum-based video series designed for the classroom which focuses on teaching STEM topics while engaging students in a fun way. Fifth grade classrooms in Hillsborough County (Florida) pilot tested the series during the 2011-2012 school year and enjoyed visits from the scientific superheroes to experience scientific demonstrations and participate in hands-on activities."

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Does anyone else automatically cringe by mdarksbane · 2012-06-20 08:36 · Score: 4, Insightful

When they read "engaging students in a fun way."
You don't need gimmicks, people! You need interesting experiments that kids can connect with.
It's hands-on science experiments. Let the kids blow stuff up, get dirty, smash something, or shock each other and they'll be interested. The gimmicks don't matter.
Back story flaw? by UninformedCoward · 2012-06-20 08:45 · Score: 5, Insightful

A lab accident that transformed them from normal scientists to super-powered members of The Scientific League of Superheroes.

Super heroes: We're here to teach you about lab safety!
Students: How did you become super heroes?!
Super heroes: A lab accident...
Students: ...