SOUTHFIELD – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields are always looking for ways to stand out for Middle School and High School students so that they can consider jobs in those fields. In order for Interest to gain traction among these younger people, STEM learning needs be both applied and fun. The Verizon Innovation Application Challenge is just the program that can change the way this new generation of students values opportunities in technology and the impact it makes on our society.
The efforts of many private and public agencies over the past few years have made more STEM focused programs more available, but the Verizon App Challenge offers a unique opportunity for students around the country to participate in a rich, project-based learning experience that fosters teamwork and encourages them to explore new ideas and consider future careers in STEM. Registration for this opportunity is open now and submissions will be accepted through December 3.
This positive, fun experience will change the way some students feel about working on technology project. Teams of 5 – 7 Middle School or High School children work to develop an original concept for a mobile app that incorporates STEM principles and content and addresses a real need or problem in their school or community. While designing their apps, students consider marketplace need, usefulness, audience and viability. Teams submit their design concepts online through a visual presentation accompanied by an essay. The best part is the winning teams do not just receive grant money, but also professional support and training to bring their concepts to life. This is the chance for young minds to take a dream and develop it into a reality.
There is a detailed judging method for each of the States outlined on the Challenge website. The contest is judged by an esteemed group of STEM educators and corporate innovators. Each of the 24 regional winning schools (12 middle school and 12 high school teams) will receive $5,000 cash grants plus virtual support and training to help them build out their app concepts. Winning teams also receive a Samsung Galaxy Tablet and a chance to present their final product at the 2014 National Technology Student Association Conference in Washington, D.C. in June, 2014.
The Verizon Innovative App Challenge delivers this opportunity with the support of sponsorship from the Verizon Foundation, Samsung, the Technology Student Association, and the MIT Center for Mobile Learning. The program format is well developed and is similar in format to many start-up programs that are seen within the Technology community.
Just like many successful STEM professionals today can link their own innovative inspiration to a school program of their past, this is a chance for the new generation to innovate and become inspired. This is the generation that we need to contribute to STEM areas, so do your part to make sure they are presented with this challenge that could shape our future.
If you are involved with any educational institution or have a child who is eligible, please take a bold step for our future and help them to submit an idea for this contest through a local Faculty Advisor or school IT program. There are also downloadable flyers available online that you can easily print and post in areas where there is high traffic for this age group like schools or community centers. More information on this contest and details on developing a team are available online at AppChallenge.TSAWeb.Org
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