Working with middle and high schools to provide students with the fundamental understanding of advanced technology and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) concepts, Mississippi State University's Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems-Extension (CAVS-E) recently selected five Holmes County Central High School Science and STEM teachers to participate in a Nissan Job Shadow training program. This program provided an opportunity for the teachers to integrate engineering and robotics into their core curriculum and to help prepare students to compete in upcoming robotics competitions across the state.
During the program, Nissan engaged teachers in STEM concepts used by major manufacturers that help employees to better understand the logical flow and production objectives utilized in maintaining an efficient production process. Special emphasis was placed on teamwork and project management skills as teachers were instructed on the fundamentals of computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Hands-on activities were used to discover the skills needed to create robots as teams worked through the engineering design process, the mechanical and electrical components, and programming their robot's "brain".
Teachers who participate in this Job Shadow training program learn how to excite students about science and technology, encouraging them to become involved in activities that promote exploration, design, and problem solving. The program activities also engage teachers in strategies to help support their teaching of core components. Dr. Shimelle Mayers, Holmes County Consolidated School District's Science Curriculum Coordinator, stated, "They (the teachers) have returned with a different mindset and they are truly energetic about working together to improve engineering and computer science education in the Holmes County Consolidated School District."
For more information about STEM or other programs offered by CAVS-E, visit cavse.msstate.edu.
