Programs & Curriculum
Our curriculum is dynamic, focused, comprehensive, and tailored to fit each student age and skill level.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of software, electronic devices, and sensors that can send and receive data via the Internet. Maker culture, the technology-based DIY field, involves the creation of new devices in electronics and robotics through open-source hardware. The maker culture emphasizes informal, networked, and peer-led learning motivated by fun and resourceful self-fulfillment. Additionally, it encourages novel applications of technologies and the exploration of intersections between traditionally separate domains including metal-working, calligraphy, filmmaking, and computer programming.
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science for the Internet of Things: Foundational Program
Duration: 15 Weeks | Students: 5th - 8th Grade
Our 15-week program equips students with a comprehensive foundation in electrical engineering, AI, computer science, and the numerous environmental, technological, and medical applications of these topics. Students will specifically explore electricity, circuit types, Ohm's Law, LEDs, resistors, computer hardware and software, Scratch programming, the Arduino microcontroller, C programming, machine learning, smart sensors, cybersecurity, and encryption. Applications discussed include smart homes and cities, virtual reality, autonomous driving, and personalized medicine. Projects accompany every lesson and often involve blinking LEDs, LED chasers, musical buzzers, input/output push buttons, traffic-light simulation, infrared temperature sensors, and photoresistors.
Science Competition Preparation: Project-Oriented Program
Duration: 15 Weeks | Students: 6th - 8th Grade
This project-oriented course is recommended as a follow-up to the foundational course and is geared towards motivated, dedicated middle school students interested in completing a science fair project. Mentorship will be provided every step of the way as students ideate a problem-solving device, delve into advanced coding and circuitry, design a blueprint of the device, define engineering criteria, construct and code the prototype, and prepare a board and oral presentation. The goal is for students to present at the Synopsys Science Fair held yearly in March and gain exposure to the trial-and-error process of prototyping both at the student and industry level.
Introduction to Engineering for Real-World Impact: Summer Program
Duration: 5 Weeks | Students: 1st - 5th Grade
Our 5-week summer program is aimed at younger students and provides an activity-based introduction to engineering in a real-world context. Students explore the nature of electricity, art-themed paper circuits and Scribble Bots, the Arduino, the Internet of Things, and the network of smart sensors. Each lesson is supplemented by hands-on activities and interactive discussions of practical implications, often aided by videos.
