On Saturday, June 1, 2024, the Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM) Community Day was held at Christopher Newport University in partnership with Newport News Public Schools in Virginia. The event drew a large crowd of community members who had the opportunity to explore various aspects of STEM fields and careers through interactive exhibits from nearly 100 different organizations.
One of the most captivating activities at the event was presented by educators from the National Institute of Aerospace’s Center for Integrated STEM Education (NIA-CISE). They set up a 13-foot tree activity that demonstrated how to use a clinometer to measure tree height. Volunteers, known as “citizen scientists,” showed attendees how NASA collects this data to calculate the amount of carbon that trees and forests absorb or release into the atmosphere. Families were able to take home a kit to create their own clinometers, allowing them to continue learning and experimenting at home.
Another engaging activity presented by NIA-CISE focused on Earth’s energy balance. Participants selected cards representing activities that either reflected energy back to space or were absorbed by Earth, and then had to decide whether these activities contributed to the “in” or “out” side of Earth’s energy balance. This hands-on activity helped attendees understand the complex concept of Earth’s energy system in a fun and interactive way.
Overall, the STEM Community Day was an excellent opportunity for community members of all ages to learn more about STEM fields and careers through interactive exhibits and engaging activities like those presented by NIA-CISE.
