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DIY STEM Kits: Hands-on Minds-on activities for students
For more than 40 years, UNCW MarineQuest has been a leader in experiential marine science programming and has continued to provide hands-on investigative learning throughout the pandemic with the use of innovative home-based STEM kits. In this session, we will explore the tips and tricks for designing the perfect STEM kit that will turn your student’s home into a fully functioning laboratory.
Webinar Presenters: Dr. Sue Kezios, Morgan O’Connell, and Harris Muhlstein
When: April 29th, 1:00 pm
Learning Objectives:
After participating in this session, learners will be able to-
Explore some best practices for STEM kit design, packaging, and shipping
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Avoid common hurdles and pitfalls
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Identify useful tools and technologies to include in the kit
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Explore strategies for distribution of STEM kits
About the Presenters
Dr. Sue Kezios, Director of Youth Programs and MarineQuest
Dr. Sue Kezios is a STEM advocate and educator. She currently serves as the Director of Youth Programs and MarineQuest at UNCW. Her grant work supports STEM outreach to underserved and rural students throughout eastern North Carolina.
Morgan O’Connell, MarineQuest Research and Volunteer Coordinator
Morgan joined the MarineQuest team as a permanent staff member in 2019 after spending four years as an educator at a marine mammal facility in the Florida Keys. As the Research and Volunteer Coordinator, Morgan mentors college students discovering their passion for marine science as they volunteer in the MarineQuest lab and teaches curriculum-based lab and field programs. Morgan grew up in the mountains of Western North Carolina but has always had a deep love for the ocean. She took every opportunity to discover more about the marine environment she could, from family trips to the beach to learning to scuba dive. Morgan realized her passion for marine science was matched only by her desire to teach while working as a summer MarineQuest staff member during her undergraduate career and has never looked back. She holds a Bachelor of Science in marine biology and a Master of Art in Teaching for Secondary Science from UNC Wilmington.
Harris Muhlstein, MarineQuest School Programs Coordinator
Harris joined the MarineQuest team in 2013. As the School Programs Coordinator, Harris works with teachers to plan and lead curriculum-focused lab and field-based Marine Science field trips. Harris grew up on the south shore of Long Island where he spent his youth as a competitive swimmer, surfer, and ocean lifeguard. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in marine biology and a Master’s degree in secondary science education from UNCW. He also earned his Master of Science in marine science from the University of Texas. MarineQuest offers Harris the ability to merge his years of relevant marine science research experience with his teaching prowess that he honed as an NC high school science educator.