News

National Grid Grant to Museum of Science Supports STEM

April 11, 2011

National Grid has formed a new partnership with the Museum of Science, Boston to improve education in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) through support for the development of middle school engineering curricula by the National Center for Technological Literacy® and bringing the Museum's innovative Traveling Programs to more people.

Specifically, National Grid's two-year grant will help underwrite development of Engineering Now curricular units and bring Traveling Programs to selected underserved communities in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York.

One of the exciting ways the Museum is introducing engineering into schools nationwide involves collaborating with WGBH to develop "Engineering Now," a series of classroom units that link learning about engineering to science and math, in conjunction with the popular television series "Design Squad Nation." The program aims to increase students' understanding of the technological world in which we live, deepen their understanding of the engineering design process, improve their ability to design innovative solutions to real problems, and increase their interest in pursuing STEM studies at the high school level.

Traveling Programs exemplify the Museum's effort to connect with the broadest, most diverse audiences, bridging geographic and socioeconomic barriers to bring science presentations to over 90,000 people in schools, community centers, and public libraries throughout New England. Engaging young people in New England and beyond in hands-on learning about science, technology, engineering, and math will help create the next generation of scientists and engineers.