STEM Research Seminar I: Robotics
This course is an introduction to the STEM Institute, with a focus on the foundational elements of engineering and computer science. Students will explore the role of robots and automation in various fields, including medicine, industry and machine learning. Students will have hands-on experience in the construction of robots and the programming of sensor-rich components for design projects, and consider the emerging role of artificial intelligence in this field.
STEM Research Seminar II: Scientific Modeling and Data Science
This STEM Institute course introduces students to the process of scientific investigation and statistical modeling with technology. Students will learn to write basic software programs to model different natural phenomena, complete a scientific investigation, and evaluate scientific literature. They will learn to use statistics to interpret results. The class will also delve into the emerging field of data science to explore, analyze, and model data sets and create data visualization displays with professional statistical tools.
STEM Research Seminar III: Material Science and Engineering
Each full graduate of the Institute will complete this year-long course, introducing students to how the disciplines of science and engineering are integrated with one another. Students will explore material science and environmental impact to develop a novel sunscreen formula and the package to contain it for retail purposes. Students will learn how to develop an engineering research proposal, and they will create a prototype product to test for quality control. All students will complete a culminating project examining sustainable design.
STEM Fellowship
The STEM Fellowship opens not only minds and doors but also fields of possibility in science, technology and engineering. Taking place during the summer between sophomore and junior year OR junior and senior year, STEM students select a topic, whether it is career-based or centered on an interest/passion in a STEM field, that they would like to explore further and to engage in an authentic, real-world opportunity. Students build toward that experience through significant research and reflection, in consultation with the STEM Director and on-site mentor. The 80-hour on-site experience will be followed by the creation or execution of a project, the details of which will be developed as part of that process of reflection and consultation.
