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More than 80 elementary students get hands-on with science at weeklong Camp Invention program

The article from KATC, published on June 27, 2023, titled "More than 80 elementary students get hands-on with science at weeklong Camp Invention program," provides a detailed account of a unique educational initiative held at Myrtle Place Elementary School in Lafayette Parish, Louisiana. The program, known as Camp Invention, is designed to engage young students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on activities and creative projects. The article highlights the enthusiasm of the participants, the structure of the camp, and the broader implications of such programs for fostering a love for learning and innovation among young students.

Camp Invention, which ran from June 19 to June 23, 2023, attracted over 80 elementary school students, ranging from kindergarten to sixth grade. The camp was organized by the National Inventors Hall of Fame and is part of a nationwide effort to inspire the next generation of inventors and innovators. The program at Myrtle Place Elementary was led by a team of dedicated educators and volunteers who were passionate about nurturing the students' curiosity and creativity.

The article delves into the various activities and modules that the students engaged in during the week. One of the key modules was "Catching Air," where students designed and built their own skate parks. This activity not only introduced them to basic engineering principles but also encouraged them to think creatively about how to solve problems. The students used various materials to construct ramps, rails, and other features, learning about physics and design in the process.

Another module, "Invention Celebration," allowed students to plan and execute their own party, incorporating elements of entrepreneurship and event planning. This module taught them about budgeting, marketing, and teamwork as they worked together to create a memorable event. The students were encouraged to think about how they could use their creativity to make the party unique and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The "MimicBot" module was particularly popular among the students. In this activity, they transformed a robot into a stuffed animal, learning about robotics and programming in a fun and engaging way. The students were able to customize their robots, adding personal touches and learning about the basics of coding and robotics. This module not only sparked their interest in technology but also showed them how they could use their creativity to bring their ideas to life.

The final module, "Pop-Up Venture," challenged students to create their own pop-up business. This activity introduced them to the basics of entrepreneurship, including product development, marketing, and sales. The students brainstormed ideas for products or services, created prototypes, and even set up a mini-marketplace to sell their creations. This module not only taught them about business but also encouraged them to think critically about how they could turn their ideas into reality.

Throughout the week, the students were encouraged to think like inventors, asking questions, experimenting, and learning from their failures. The camp emphasized the importance of perseverance and creativity, teaching the students that it's okay to make mistakes as long as they learn from them. The hands-on nature of the activities allowed the students to engage with the material in a way that traditional classroom learning often cannot.

The article also highlights the positive feedback from both the students and their parents. Many parents noted that their children were excited to attend the camp each day and were eager to share what they had learned. The students themselves expressed enthusiasm for the activities, with many saying that they enjoyed the hands-on nature of the camp and the opportunity to work on projects that were both fun and educational.

The camp's success is attributed to the dedication of the educators and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure that the students had a positive and enriching experience. The article mentions that the camp was led by a team of experienced teachers who were passionate about STEM education and committed to inspiring the next generation of innovators.

The broader implications of programs like Camp Invention are also discussed in the article. Such initiatives are crucial for fostering a love for learning and innovation among young students. By engaging them in hands-on activities and encouraging them to think creatively, these programs help to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in the 21st century.

The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of continuing to support and expand such programs. With the rapid pace of technological advancement, it is more important than ever to ensure that young students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Programs like Camp Invention play a vital role in this effort, providing students with the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and discover their potential as inventors and innovators.

Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the Camp Invention program at Myrtle Place Elementary School, highlighting the activities, the enthusiasm of the participants, and the broader implications for STEM education. It serves as a testament to the power of hands-on learning and the importance of fostering creativity and innovation among young students.

Read the Full KATC Article at:
[ https://www.katc.com/lafayette-parish/more-than-80-elementary-students-get-hands-on-with-science-at-weeklong-camp-invention-program ]