Time To Invent Club
Innovation and invention are cornerstones of American society, but not all young people have role models to open doors in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). WGBH and the Lemelson Foundation are meeting this need through the creation of a new program, the Time To Invent Club. The program, which started this year in the Boston area, places young STEM professionals and college students in after-school programs once a week. Working with a group of kids ages 10-12, the mentors use a stepped-out curriculum that inspires youth to explore invention. The program will return in the 2010-2011 academic year in sites around Boston and Worcester.
Goals of the Program
Expose disadvantaged youth to the design process through fun, hands-on activities
Build meaningful relationships between mentors and youth
Inspire kids to continue their exploration of science, math, and engineering
Introduce youth to STEM careers
Roles of Mentors
Each after-school site has two mentors that co-lead the weekly hour-long program. Mentors:
o Have fun working with kids to unleash their creative abilities
o Strengthen their leadership and teaching skills
o Receive training and a stepped-out curriculum
o Get a stipend for program supplies
o Enjoy the support of program staff, fellow mentors, and after-school leaders
o Raise the community service profile of their company or institution
Requirements of Mentors
In addition to having the excitement to inspire kids, mentors are asked to:
o Commit to volunteering for 2-hours per week for 16 weeks during the academic year (set-up and break-down included)
o Attend a fall and spring training (dates TBD)
o Get to and from after-school site
o Collect necessary materials for weekly activities using the stipend
o Participate in program evaluation conducted by Concord Evaluation Group
o Gain clearance on background check
Want to Become a Mentor?
We are beginning to recruit new mentors for the 2010-2011 academic year. If you study or work in a STEM field and want to inspire kids, we’d love to hear from you! Interested?
Please Contact:
Liza Silverman
Educational Outreach, WGBH
Phone: (617) 300-3642 or Email: liza_silverman@wgbh.org
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