Middle schoolers gain a hands-on, interactive learning experience at UI Health Care
On May 3, middle school students from MFL MarMac participated in interactive educational sessions with University of Iowa Health Care faculty, staff and students, with the intent to pique interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). These students had the opportunity to engage in health care and research experiences that provided them with real-life medical simulations and situations in which critical thinking and problem-solving are necessary.
University of Iowa Health Care partnered with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) to host an educational experience, Pennies for Patients. LLS challenged middle school students to collect pennies, which would be donated to LLS. The top two schools, one of which was MFL MarMac, had the opportunity to visit UI Health Care for an educational experience. MFL MarMac raised $2,200.
Each year, University of Iowa Health Care programs provide thousands of school-aged children with opportunities to explore STEM careers and medical discoveries. Faculty, staff and students at the University of Iowa share the same goal with Iowa’s K-12 educators, parents and community organizations to inspire appreciation and excitement toward STEM as the foundation for understanding health while shaping the next generation of health care professionals.
“Through UI Health Care STEM Education programs, we are able to align our outreach education efforts with the statewide STEM initiatives to increase student interest and achievement in STEM, increase public awareness of the importance of STEM education for the economy and society and reach a diverse group of K-12 students,” said Jackie Kleppe, Director of Collegiate and Community Relations for UI Health Care.
To learn more about how your children and/or students can engage in a hands-on, STEM-based experience at University of Iowa Health Care, please visit uihealthcare.org/STEM or contact University of Iowa Health Care Marketing and Communications Collegiate and Community Relations STEM Education staff at 877-MED-IOWA or 319-335-6839.