STEM Camp brings UTA students and local children together
Dr. Robin Jocius, a UTA College of Education professor, conducted the event with the help of Yuliana Nguyen, the K-12 librarian on campus. This was the second annual STEAM camp that provided and gave students a chance to think like a teacher.
“The goal is to provide our pre-service teachers with experience in working with children in informal learning environments,” Dr. Jocius stated. “While also providing a service to UTA faculty and staff.”
There were different stations set up on the main floor of the library and the top floor for the children to rotate through. From talking about the ecosystem to creating kinetic energy through playing with sand, there was something for everyone.
Mary Khalil said, “Before the day, I was so stressed out, but when I got there and met the kids and worked with them, I loved it.”
The UTA students who ran the camp created lesson plans and instructional materials through the UTA’s open access publishing initiatives. Some of the UTA students were excited to be with the children and some were nervous to be in the teacher position.
“I was a little apprehensive about it at first because I had never led instruction before, but I was surprised by how comfortable I felt doing it,” Caleb Matthews said. “Another thing I found surprising was how well I was able to adapt and adjust throughout the day. I was very happy with how I handled change.”
Nadia Sigala said, “It was very exciting and fast-paced. It was good to meet different types of kids.”