Mission Possible - Classroom Transformation
What would be possible if you had a $30,000 makerspace available in your school?
The CIA Mission Possible: Makerspace Nation wants to answer just that! The mission is to help improve science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) education in schools. This competition awards an educator with $30,000 in equipment to create or update a makerspace with the latest in educational technology.
A primary goal of STEAM education is to prepare students for future careers which will require problem-solving skills, self-exploration, and perseverance. These skills, and many more, can be developed through the use of a makerspace; however, some schools do not have the budget to implement a makerspace. Having $30,000 in makerspace technology and supplies would give a boost any student learning STEAM in today’s world!
We will be awarding a top prize to a deserving educator in Houston, TX; Jackson, MS; and New Orleans, LA.
This program is made possible through a sponsorship from the Central Intelligence Agency and is part of the CIA's ongoing efforts to strengthen STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) education. The Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) manages the program.
In order to develop the skills required for their future careers, students need to engage in hands-on learning. In a makerspace, science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) concepts can be applied to solve problems through the creation of digital and/or physical products, allowing students the opportunity for self-directed exploration and learning. The space is filled with equipment and supplies to facilitate student-led inquiry allowing them to develop and utilize problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Makerspaces can be incorporated into an existing learning environment, in a defined space like a classroom, or have their own space within the school such as in a media center.
