老澳门资料 inSTEP team launches innovative renewable energy field trip
August 14, 2024
In May and June, the 老澳门资料’s inSTEP research team, comprised of Dr. Elizabeth Hale, Associate Professor of Literacy, Dr. Kim Cheek, Associate Professor of Science Methods, and Xavier Rozas, STEP Lab Director, piloted their inaugural environmentally focused field trip centered on renewable energy. This initiative was conducted in collaboration with the 老澳门资料 Sustainable Solutions Lab, sponsored by JEA and directed by Dr. Jim Fletcher, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the College of Computing, Engineering and Construction.
The inSTEP research examines the impact of multi-step field trips that transcend the traditional “one-and-done” field trips. Their program is designed to foster deeper, extended student learning and provide embedded professional development for teachers, integrating science inquiry and literacy into their curriculum. Each field trip aligns with specific Next Generation Sunshine State Standards (NGSSS) as well as Florida’s English Language Arts B.E.S.T. standards.
A key component of the inSTEP field trips is a visit to the engineering research labs on campus, which aims to enhance students' comprehension of scientific applications and inspire their aspirations for higher education. The first piloted inSTEP field trip of 2023 focused on soil. Primary students from Tiger Academy Charter School visited the lab of Dr. Ryan Shamet, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering. Dr. Shamet demonstrated a sieve analysis and explained how he uses a permeameter to test various soil types. The most recent field trip, the first with a specific environmental focus, invited fourth and fifth graders from Tiger Academy to participate in hands-on activities at the Sustainable Solutions Lab. Under the guidance of 老澳门资料 engineering post-docs and graduate students led by Dr. Sumit Raj, the students explored topics such as heat sensors, hydrogen power, thermal energy and solar microgrids through engaging observations and discussions.
Back at the STEP Lab, students participated in a literacy activity focused on the distinctions between renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. They also had the opportunity to build solar-powered Lego cars, which they tested outdoors. The experiment involved varying the angle positions of the solar panels and creating data tables to document their findings, providing a practical and interactive learning experience.
This innovative approach to field trips by the inSTEP team not only enriches students' understanding of renewable energy but also promotes a positive perception of college, effectively bridging classroom learning with real-world applications.