By Joseph P. Cox, Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science’s (MODS) STEMobile, a fleet of mobile makerspaces, is a pivotal force advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education in South Florida — with a keen focus on teaching environmental awareness and sustainability, launched in 2021. This unique initiative is designed to foster a deep connection between students and the natural world, aiming to nurture future environmental stewards committed to protecting our planet.
Embedded in the larger framework of MODS’ Hub for Resilience Education, the STEMobile initiative encompasses five vehicles that make their way to schools, libraries, nonprofit youth agencies, senior centers and community gatherings throughout South Florida all year long. These mobile units are equipped to deliver specialized, age-appropriate programs, ensuring that learners from all backgrounds and educational levels have access to high-quality environmental education.
The STEMobile is an extension of the popular MODS’ The Hangar Makerspace, a permanent exhibit, which is a diverse fusion of a science lab, engineering workshop, innovation workshop and art area that is designed to be flexible and accommodate a wide range of collaborative activities, from aviation to weather exploration and from coding to engineering challenges.
One of the flagship programs, “Dive, Fly and Grow,” targets early learners by introducing them to the wonders of marine ecosystems, native birdlife of the Everglades and the importance of Florida citrus trees. Such programs are foundational, instilling a profound connection to the environment for children at a young age. Recognizing early childhood as a critical period for developing empathy and resilience toward environmental challenges, the STEMobile leverages unique, interactive experiences to shape the conservationists of tomorrow.
The STEMobile explores broader environmental themes through program offerings like “Weather the Storm.” Here, students delve into the complexities of extreme weather patterns, engaging in activities that hone their problem-solving and critical thinking skills and encourage them to design innovative solutions to combat climate-related challenges such as hurricanes and floods.
MODS offers several educational initiatives that feature STEMobile program. The museum provides two full days of interactive STEMobile activities and two field trips for 2,500 students in 19 public elementary schools in the city of Fort Lauderdale, along with two professional development courses for educators. The museum also collaborates with the Jack & Jill Center on the LEGO Playful Learning Museum Network, which teaches young learners to explore the world through STEAM activities that develop communication, problem-solving and perseverance skills.
Annually, the STEMobile program impacts 75,000 individuals, with about 90% of its offerings free to low-income children and families, thanks to significant philanthropic support. Additionally, a special initiative funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services provides free STEMobile programs, resource kits and educator memberships to early learning centers in Broward County.
In addition to serving students, the STEMobile provides programing at senior centers with community family-centric events, and Family Science Nights that invite families to engage with hands-on activities centered around environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, educators can enhance their teaching strategies through complimentary workshops aimed at integrating environmental themes into their curriculum more effectively.
The STEMobile outreach program is an essential instrument in promoting environmental education throughout Florida. By engaging youth and the community at large with meaningful environmental education, the STEMobile not only fosters a greater appreciation for the natural world but also equips individuals with the knowledge and tools to advocate for a more resilient and sustainable future. Through its comprehensive and inclusive approach, the STEMobile is charting a path toward a greener, more environmentally conscious generation.
The STEMobile was made possible by the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation with donated vehicles and additional customization made possible by The Extra Catch, Weston Nissan and Weston Volvo. Programming is sponsored by Amazon, Broward MPO, Centuric, Early Learning Coalition of Broward County, Florida Blue, FPL, Institute of Museum and Library Services, JetBlue, The JetBlue Grants Foundation, PNC Grow Up Great, Thales and UKG. Additional support is provided by Broward County Cultural Division and Florida Arts and Culture.
Join us on this journey toward sustainability and become a part of the change. Visit our website, mods.org, to learn how you can support the STEMobile program and contribute to a greener tomorrow. Let’s empower our youth, our communities and ourselves to steward the environment with care, creativity and passion.
We are always seeking new partners for STEMobile program sponsorship opportunities. To inquire, please email development@mods.org. For inquiries or to have the STEMobile come to you, please visit mods.org/stemobile, email booking@mods.org or call 954-713-0930.
Joseph P. Cox serves as the president and CEO of the Museum of Discovery and Science.
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