MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—This summer, 80 middle and high school students from across central and north central Ohio gathered at the Ohio State Marion campus to participate in the annual high school STEM camp, high school engineering camp, and middle school engineering camp.
Dr. Golrokh Mirzaei, Coordinator of Engineering Programs at Ohio State Marion, shared that the summer camp program was initiated about a decade ago to engage and motivate K-12 students in science and engineering. “The goal is to show them how new inventions in these areas can change daily life and inspire them to be the creators of tomorrow when they come to college,” said Mirzaei.
Dr. Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy, one of the camp organizers and administrative manager of the campus Academic Success Center, emphasized the importance of introducing students to hands-on science and engineering projects at a young age. “Our camps are designed to either introduce and expand on existing foundations our participants have in science and engineering. The sessions encourage critical thinking and collaboration through completion of multidisciplinary projects covering computer science, engineering, biology, chemistry, and mathematics,” Rye McCurdy said.
Students also gained invaluable experience touring real manufacturing facilities, including the Honda East Liberty plant, and working side-by-side with Ohio State Marion faculty in science and engineering labs.
Dr. Nima Mansouri, Ohio State Marion Assistant Professor of Practice in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and coordinator of Summer Engineering Institute, was impressed with the energy the attendees had during the camp. “They efficiently completed a roller coaster project, a college-level lab assignment, a 3D project, and a robotic project, making me feel they are ready for college work,” said Mansouri.
The response to the annual hands-on academic camps, meant to inspire students with a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, was positive among attendees. One student who attended the STEM camp shared, “It was a great camp! The professors and the leaders were so kind.”
What also made the camps unique for attendees were the community partnerships inviting students to travel to and engage in learning at locations throughout central Ohio. Short day trips included a tour of the Honda East Liberty Manufacturing Plant, participating in the camps annual Boat Regatta held at Marion Family YMCA and plant exploration at the Terradise Nature Center.
Dr. Qudsia Tahmina, middle school camp coordinator and associate professor of practice in the Ohio State’s department of electrical and computer engineering, shared that the middle school students participated in the camp activities that broadened their knowledge and skills. “They learned critical thinking and problem-solving skills that helped develop an appreciation for engineering,” said Tahmina.
The sessions involved project-based learning utilizing engineering tools, mathematical reasoning and software applications, team building and networking with faculty and industry professionals. “Students toured Honda manufacturing facilities in Marysville and learned about the automotive industry and the use of robots to build a car. They also visited the Honda Heritage Museum to explore the history of Honda America,” she added.
Additional work in teaching and coordination of camp sessions was provided by Dr. Chandika Annasiwatta, Dr. Ranjith Kumar, Dr. Chris Orban, and Dr. Scott Zimmerman.