The Power of Making and Engineering in the Classroom – Wentzville Location Imagine. Design. Create. Repeat. During this academy, participants will become “makers” and tap into their innate building abilities. Participants will safely use high- and low-tech tools, specialty supplies and everyday classroom/household materials to produce creations and innovations. The engineering design process will be employed in a variety of STEM projects. We will tour Ranken’s state-of-the-art laboratories, engage in hands-on activities, and explore potential community partnerships. Research-based learning strategies…

Dirty Jobs . . . that Pay Well: STEM Career Exploration - St. Louis Location The focus of this institute is to explore innovative solutions in the technological areas of Carpentry, Major Appliance, Plumbing Technology, and Welding.  Each morning, experience cutting edge technologies using our state-of-the-art laboratories and industrial equipment. You will have the opportunity to meet current students, professors, and leaders in the business community. In the afternoon, work through hands-on activities that can be integrated into classroom curriculum to…

LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Robotics & Engineering STEM Academy - St. Louis Location For FIRST robotics coaches and educators!  New to FIRST LEGO robotics and don’t know where to start?  Bring your own robot and we’ll do the rest.  Experience fun and motivating activities, inspired by missions from a variety of resources. Learn from a student’s perspective, while reflecting on and sharing learning approaches, tips and tricks, and diverse applications in your classroom. Gain ideas for how to facilitate engaging, hands-on…

Robotics Technology Medley in the Classroom – St. Louis Location Delve into multiple robotics platforms and the concept of control systems during this academy. Explore Sphero, LEGO Mindstorms EV3, Tetrix PRIME, and VEX EDR technologies. Learn basic block-based and text-based programming, utilizing educational applications, code, and game-style controllers to control robots and engage in friendly competition. Participants will tour the many technological programs available at Ranken Technical College to enlighten their perceptions about STEM and profitable career choices, where technical…

Renewable Fuels - for Agriculture/Automotive/Bio-technology/Environmental/Biology & Chemistry Teachers This institute will give educators a chance to explore innovative solutions in the areas of environmental sustainability, automotive performance, and information technology.  As the price of gasoline continues to be unstable, Americans should begin considering alternatives to petroleum including biodiesel, ethanol, and electricity.  Biodiesel is an alternative, carbon-neutral fuel made here in the United States.  Education about the science and performance of this fuel is needed for it to become more practical.  This academy will teach participants the science of…