Sooner Elementary Engineering and Science
The Sooner Elementary Science and Engineering (SeeS) program at the University of Oklahoma inspires schoolchildren in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade to explore the ways engineering, science, and mathematics make a difference and improve our world. By leading hands-on science, mathematics, and engineering investigations, undergraduates from the University of Oklahoma and particularly the College of Engineering are kindling an excitement for creatively solving the world’s problems within a new cadre of engineers and scientists from the Sooner State.
SeeS currently visits nine Norman Public Schools elementary schools once per month for three months each semester to engage school children and university volunteers in authentic, inquiry experiences related to engineering. The SeeS goals for the elementary students are to teach fundamental physical science and engineering design concepts, to raise awareness of the diversity of engineering endeavors and the importance of engineering in today’s world, to contest prevailing stereotypes about engineers and scientists, and to encourage continued excitement among young scientists and engineers. The OU volunteers have an opportunity to enhance their own understanding through teaching and feel the personal satisfaction of enriching the lives of children and promoting their field of study.
Filed under: Grades K-5, K-12 Outreach Programs
