Bishop Carroll Catholic High School is always striving to find ways to improve the education experience for all students. One of the latest endeavors is to convert the computer lab into a full STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math) lab. The space is ideal for this, with ample room for all equipment and student workspaces.
The purpose of a STREAM lab is to give students opportunities to have practical applications of the skills that they learn in each of those classes. STREAM-based
programs take an integrated approach to learning and teaching, which requires an intentional connection between curriculum learning objectives, standards, assessments, and lesson design/implementation. STREAM learning applies meaningful content material to solve real-world problems through hands-on learning activities and creative design. All students will be exposed to STREAM technology, and certain class periods will be offered on a semester basis for those with more interest.
Benefits of STREAM learning include, but are not limited to:
- Thinking outside of the box
- Feeling safe to express innovative and creative ideas
- Feeling comfortable doing hands-on learning
- Taking ownership over learning
- Working collaboratively with others
- Understanding the ways that the various subject areas work together
- Becoming increasingly curious about the world around them and feeling empowered to change it for the better
Several pieces of equipment are needed for the initial startup of the program. The desired equipment includes a Form 3 High Precision 3D Printer, a Fusion Edge 12-50W Laser Engraver, a Roland BT-12 Garment Printer, an Ultimaker S5 Desktop 3D Printer, and a Vinyl Printer/Cutter. Additionally, new furniture will be required to make the space usable. As the program grows and develops, we hope to add new pieces of equipment that will further enhance the education of our students.
Not only will students at Bishop Carroll benefit from these programs, but so will our elementary students in the Prince Gallitzin Quadrant. Plans are underway to have the schools use our lab and our teachers for enhanced learning at their level. If the students are exposed to the curriculum and technology at a young age, they will learn to master it and truly become leaders once they reach high school and take more challenging and focused STREAM programs.
The only way that this endeavor becomes successful is through the assistance of generous donors. A tax-deductible gift may be given to Bishop Carroll Catholic High School to assist in the renovations and implementation of the program. The total cost for startup is around $70,000 for all equipment and furniture. Donations are accepted towards this project in large and small amounts. Large donor sponsorship opportunities are also available. If you have questions about the program, are interested in visiting the space, or making a donation, please contact Mr. Steve Cotchen at [email protected] or (814) 472-7500, extension 106.