On June 29 and 30, the Center for Middle Georgia Studies hosted its second annual STEM Educator Camp in partnership with the Museum of Aviation Foundation. This free two-day camp provided professional development opportunities to 13 Middle Georgia educators.
The camp introduced K-12 educators to new tools, technologies, and instructional strategies to take back to their classrooms. Participants engaged in hands-on learning centered on geometry, engineering design, robotics, and computational thinking.
Throughout the program, learners explored emerging classroom technologies while working alongside their children to complete STEM activities designed to translate directly into classroom practice. From block-based and color-coded programming with Dash, Indi, and Sphero robots to building electrical circuits that powered small motors, the experience emphasized concept development and practical application.
The camp culminated in a “Mission to Mars” challenge, where participants applied their newly developed robotics, coding, and engineering skills to navigate a simulated Martian colony, exercising innovative problem-solving.
In addition to the hands-on instruction, educators earned continuing education units (CEUs), supporting certification renewal and ongoing professional growth. More importantly, participants left with practical strategies and resources that they can adapt for use in their own classrooms during the coming school year.
This event is made possible through a formal partnership between the University and the Museum of Aviation, reflecting a shared commitment to broadening STEM learning opportunities for MGA students and the Middle Georgia community.
