STEM Sparks Interest in Students

May 2011: OrthoWorx eNewsletter

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education is becoming a priority for keeping America competitive in global life sciences. “Inspiring all our students to be capable in math and science will help them contribute in an increasingly technology-based economy and will also help America prepare the next generation of STEM professionals — scientists, engineers, architects and technology professionals—to ensure our competitiveness,” stated U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan in a news release September 16, 2010.

Recently released Cambridge Education Study, A Study of K12 Education in Warsaw, Ind. reinforces this. A recommendation of the OrthoWorx-funded study includes an increased “focus on advanced technology skills and a detailed knowledge of math and science.”

STEM interest in Warsaw Community Schools is growing. About four years ago Edgewood Middle School Science Teacher Ben Barkey’s eighth grade honors science class divided into groups to engage in Lego® robotics classroom competitions. This was possible through the Partners in Education Program and incorporated into the curriculum September through December. Zimmer, Inc. assigned four engineers for eight weeks to support the program. So far 200 students have completed this advanced science class.

Edgewood Middle School plans to add another class and an additional 25 students to the class next year. Barkey states, “We have a nice mix of students in the advanced science classes, male and female. Many of the students are expected to proceed into biomedical areas of study for college.”

This has triggered enthusiasm outside the classroom, with the classes or teams participating in area competitions and winning awards. Also, Warsaw Robotics Club was formed in September 2010 at the Warsaw Area Career Center. This was possible through donations from Biomet, DePuy, Tornier, Zimmer and the Warsaw Education Foundation. The Warsaw Robotics Club receives engineering support from DePuy, Biomet and Zimmer.

Warsaw Robotics Club advisor and instructor Abbi Richcreek, Warsaw Area Career Center, comments, “The students who participated in the Warsaw Robotics Club used engineering concepts and problem solving skills. They applied their knowledge to solve the challenges from building the robot to programming the robot. They tested their solution in practice sessions and competitions. Seeing the students’ progress with robots was awesome. All of the students learned so much. Having engineers come from local orthopedic companies really enhanced the learning process. In 2011/2012 school year, Engineering I & II Robotics is being offered for students to take. This will take STEM to the next level for the students.”

For more information about the Cambridge Education Study, visit the OrthoWorx website.
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