It’s All About Real Life: Inspiring Youth to Explore the World of STEM

Nothing captivates and inspires a young mind to learn something new more than a first-hand experience “IRL” – in real life.

That’s why the Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) and Housing Opportunities Community Partners (HOCP) are proud to conduct a wide variety of exciting out-of-school programs and activities that engage young people in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). These programs are challenging their misperceptions about the sciences by making them personal and relatable.

How do we know? Take a look at some of the “before” and “after” comments of youth who have participated in the programming we provide.

KIDS BEFORE STEM ACTIVITIESKIDS AFTER STEM ACTIVITIES
Unhappy Face EmojiWow Face emoji
I don’t like math
I used math to predict how the drone will fly
Science is boringThat lab experiment was really cool
I never do well in physicsI did the egg drop test, now I understand physics
Computer programming is not for meThe robot followed the commands I programmed
What is so interesting about wind power?Wow… that wind tunnel picked me up off the floor

Real Life Programming Makes a Difference

Since 2015, HOC and HOCP have implemented STEM programs that have inspired approximately 1,200 youth. Each year, the summer day camps we conduct give elementary school students the opportunity to build, program and operate robots. Middle school students immerse themselves in Earth conservation activities, learning about water purification efforts. And, both middle and high school students conduct chemistry experiments in state-of-the-art laboratories and tour local organizations and agencies that are leading the environmental preservation movement.

Our after school programs expand the learning horizons of our youth. We organize field trips for kids to learn about aviation and space exploration. HOC kids visit iFly, TopGolf and museums to experience science in action. HOC hosts STEM expos where students and parents strengthen their bonds as they work together on expert facilitated experiments and fly sophisticated drones.

Montage of kids in various STEM program activities
  • Kids learn about STEM in a relaxed and fun environment.
    Without the anxiety over grades and performance measurement, students are more likely to explore, face challenges and open up to new and exciting lessons that show them how STEM is prevalent in everyday life.
  • They are introduced to new technology.
    STEM activities bring the newest and best technology to our kids – not to increase their screen time, but to engage them in challenging tasks IRL. They learn about computer coding; they improve their critical thinking; and they apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications in exciting ways.
  • Young people grow in confidence and take on challenges.
    Studying science can be scary and intimidating for many young people. Learning a technical skill may not be very interesting – but seeing how that technical skill can be applied to solve a real world problem is thrilling and inspiring. When youth experience success, they aspire to take on challenges, even in the face of possible failure. Sure, the robot may wander off course or the drone may not lift off correctly. The computer may freeze. But inspired young people will rise to the challenge and solve the problem through experiential learning.
  • STEM stepping-stones.
    The STEM programs offered by HOC provide youth with an all-important stepping-stone that connects them to the school course work they need to pursue exciting and rewarding careers in the STEM fields. In addition, the kids learn how to work as a team. They understand and respect the value of collaboration. They learn analytical skills that will help them in real life, regardless of the career they ultimately choose.

Inspire Our Future STEM Experts

Your support is critical to helping HOC and HOCP continue – and expand – the type of programs and activities that encourage inspiration and aspiration among young people to pursue STEM careers IRL. 

  • Get Inspired
  • Donate to help HOCP expand #STEM programs for youth
  • Become an INSPIRE Celebration Sponsor

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