Aerospace Academy Program

The goal of NASA MUREP Aerospace Academy (MAA) project at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is to improve STEM literacy by engaging students, family members and teachers through integration of emerging technologies.

The specific objectives of the aerospace-themed academy project are to:

• Increase the number of historically underserved and underrepresented students from NENC region and beyond are interested in NASA specific STEM careers. 

• Provide skills to parents/caregivers to work with and encourage their children in STEM activities and programs. 

• Involve community groups, business, industry, museums and educational and professional organizations through mentoring, field trips, guest speakers and other MAA activities.
• Engage students in participatory activities such as inquiry-based hands-on-learning, research, use of advanced technology, in a mentoring relationship with professionals working in the STEM fields.

The expected outcomes of the MAA project are:

• • Increased understanding of STEM content and NASA Missions, both for students and family members
  • Enable students in grades K-12 to successfully advance through challenging STEM courses
  • Increased interest in pursuing STEM knowledge, STEM degrees and careers
  • Increased family participation in STEM experiences
  • Increased awareness of NASA STEM careers, both for students and family members
  • Increase in number of historically underserved and underrepresented students selecting a STEM major for post-secondary

The computerized classroom puts technology at the fingertips of MAA elementary, middle and/or high school students. The MAA AEL consists of fifteen computerized lab stations loaded with CEAs with specific emphasis on the NASA Science and Aeronautics Research Mission Directorates. These lab stations support laboratory modules that are directly related to and augment various STEM subjects and topics. 

 

The Family Connection is an interactive forum that provides STEM education and parenting or caregiving information to any supportive adult role model(s) who interacts with the students.  The Family Connection consist of three major elements: (i) Family Focus Groups, (ii) Family Nights, and (iii) Home-Based Family Initiatives. The goal is to include parents/families as a partner with NASA and the NASA MAA Sites in the planning, design and implementation of the NASA MAA that support the Next Generation Science Standards and with a strong emphasis on math and science literacy for 21st century learners.

The summer academy provides out-of-school science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) enrichment to high school students. The residential summer programs will be hosted on the ECSU campus and will be open to only high school students (Rising 10^th – 12^th graders). Our summer program will be a great start to a career in science, engineering, and aviation. Find Out More.

 

Class Instructor professional development is designed to help teachers develop and apply the knowledge and skills necessary to help students learn. The outcomes of teacher professional development are defined in terms of improved professional practice with the long-term goals focused on improved student outcomes. The NASA MUREP Aerospace Academy of Northeastern North Carolina (NENC) at Elizabeth City State University will offer innovative on-site, online, and blended solutions designed to meet the needs and goals of educators presenting practical, professional, and workable ideas that can be used immediately. These training sessions will assist teachers in the development of a plan that meets educators where they are, and brings instruction to the next level.

 

Saturday Academy sessions, scheduled in the fall and spring, are designed to enhance student’s academic skills and interest in higher education. Saturday Academy is an intense academic program designed to serve students who are willing to go the extra mile to enhance their education.  Students may elect from a variety of classes including math, reading, English, writing, science, computers, and various career related courses.  Student’s academic performance will be assessed and evaluated in the specific subject areas and instruction will be provided that will build on existing strengths and work on identified weaknesses. During Saturday Academy sessions, families will have the opportunity to participate in tutoring, workshops, community service projects, and social events throughout the school year.

 

This program defines the value of having an outreach program to motivate and recruit students and carries the message of opportunities in specific industries. Using this model as a guide, we have identified six development components that will be used in implementing the proposed aerospace-themed mobile STEM lab program: (i) Controlled Message, (ii) Support, (iii) Ongoing School Partnership, (iv) Trained Student Presenters, (v) Program Activities, (vi) Evaluation and Tracking. Click here to schedule a visit to your school.