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University Students Become Superheroes To Teach STEM Education

Posted by Soulskill on 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."

4 of 55 comments (clear)

  1. Which one will become.... by cayenne8 · · Score: 4, Funny
    ..."Never Gets Laid Man"....?

    j/k

    :)

    --
    Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.........
  2. Does anyone else automatically cringe by mdarksbane · · 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.

  3. Re:Ooh, you know what else they should do? by seepho · · Score: 5, Funny

    Don't laugh. Rap convinced me to stop copying floppies.

  4. Back story flaw? by UninformedCoward · · 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: ...