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Texas School Brings STEM Pros to Class Virtually
Stipes Elementary School has recently gone public with its use of a service that virtually brings experts from STEM fields to the classroom for interactive class sessions or project mentoring.
Students at the Irving, TX school used Nepris to talk with Pedologist Clay Robinson, dubbed Dr. Dirt, "who showed them different types of soil and explained its importance to life," according to a news release.
"One of the biggest challenges with STEM careers is giving [students] opportunities to see other careers," said Meghan Hunt, their teacher, in a prepared statement. "We are trying to do everything we can now, even at the elementary age, to help them prepare for the future."
To host a Nepris session in their classroom, a teacher can submit a request "based on a curriculum topic or activity that can benefit from an industry connection," according to information on the company's site. Nepris then matches the class with a professional for a live session, which can include discussions, verbal or SMS-based questions, project mentoring, product demonstrations, design plans or video.
Individual teachers can sign up for free access to recorded sessions, and licenses are available for the District, school, and classroom levels.
Other schools using Nepris include Aldridge Elementary School and Clear Lake High School, both in Texas.
About the Author
Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at jbolkan@gmail.com.