Exploring Science Data with NASA's STEM Innovation Lab: Explore, Create, Share

The STEM Innovation Lab is essentially a hybrid makerspace where NASA scientists, engineers and educators are invited to explore and develop new ideas related to infusion of educational technology into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) activities, programs, and approaches. The lab provides NASA subject matter experts (SMEs) an unique opportunity to provide valuable input to new or existing educational technology projects that is collected and shared with the education community in a variety of effective and meaningful ways. It is the perfect space for SMEs who are interested in education and/or public outreach to directly influence project development and educational planning on a national level.

The physical lab, located at Goddard Space Flight Center, is divided into no less than eight interchangeable STEM exploration stations. Each station is open to internal personnel and partners to investigate how new and existing technologies can be effectively blended together for greater impact and integrated into existing education programs and products. Current stations include: Design and Fabrication (3D, Paper), Coding/Electronics, Mobile Sensors, Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR), Optics, Gamification/Virtual Environments, Mobile Media, Touchscreen Devices. Stations are replaced with emerging technologies, as recommended by partners and best practices.

Through a partnership with the University of North Texas (UNT), we conduct short and long term evaluation and peer reviewed research on selected ideas produced in the lab. In partnership with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) we organize virtual workshops for informal educators to explore and share emerging technologies.

Ideas and research findings are collected and shared with education networks in including blogs, social media, monthly working group meetings. See @NASASpaceSciEdu or https://blogs.nasa.gov/stem-innovation-lab/ . Future ideas include replicating the STEM Innovation Lab's approach in locations throughout the US that will be recognized as NASA Innovation Outposts.

During this session, participants will learn how to connect to the lab through the new STEM Innovation Lab network while exploring some of the labs latest hands-on projects and ideas, including AR/VR tools, coding with NASA data and 2D/3D designs.

Alignments with ISTE Standards:

For Coaches:

- Digital Age Learning Environments: Maintain and manage a variety of digital tools and resources for teacher and student use in technology-rich learning environments.

For Educators:

- Designer: Explore and apply instructional design principles to create innovative digital learning environments that engage and support learning.

For Students:

- Empowered Learner: Students understand the fundamental concepts of technology operations, demonstrate the ability to choose, use and troubleshoot current technologies and are able to transfer their knowledge to explore emerging technologies.