Resources for Teachers & Youth

These FREE courses, Introduction to Robotics using LEGO Mindstorms and Arduino-Based Robotics, introduce robotics as a method for teaching STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Brock LaMeres, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at Montana State University, developed and led both courses. Dr. LaMeres designed the courses for pre- and in-service teachers. They are also appropriate for youth leaders, coaches orparents interested in integrating robotics and programming into learning.

Using Technology to Research After Class (UTRAC) is a Montana State University, Montana EPSCoR, and Montana Institute on Ecosystems project that engages youth in scientific explorations relating to the water and carbon cycles in their own school playgrounds. In this project, youth in Montana will participate in hands-on, inquiry-based activities and data collection in informal educational settings, such as after-school programs and summer camps.

BioScience Montana is an immersive health sciences project for high school-aged Montana 4-H'ers. The National Institutes of Health funded BioScience Montana to help Montana teens prepare for careers and studies in the health sciences and biomedical research.

The year-long program began in August when students spent an immersive week on the MSU-Bozeman campus, studying alongside faculty and students. Upon returning to their home communities, students spent the remainder of the school year fully engaged in experiments and science challenges.

Participants also used interactive technologies to communicate with one another, connect with MSU student mentors, and present what they have learned to families, schools and the statewide 4-H community. The grant period has ended, but several educational resources remain.

Librarians can download free activity sheets and information about how to create dynamic family events to teach the public about NASA and space science. This site contains all the information a library needs to host four fun-filled educational parties with the themes of Star Viewing, the Sun, Astronauts, & Aliens.

This short film is designed for young people who are thinking about college and STEM careers. Energy's Future tells the story of Joules, a high school junior who is considering what to do after high school. Her story intersects with those of three Montana State University students who are engaged in cutting-edge research aimed at solving one of the biggest problems facing our world: the need to find renewable energy. Through interweaving stories, Energy's Future paints a picture of the intersection of science and people, from students being taught in the high school classroom to students solving real-world problems in the college lab. [c] Montana NSF EPSCoR, 2010. Run time: 12:32.

Videos, lesson plans and other educational resources on thermal biology research in Yellowstone National Park. The Institute conducts and promotes research and education focused on the biology and interrelated physical and chemical processes of geothermal environments in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.