New STEM Maker Lab Program Pushes the Limits of Innovation

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, Nov. 28, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Our traditional school libraries' print resources are being replaced with computers, 3-D printers and other cutting-edge technology, and districts are seeking flexible programming to utilize the new space.

A new licensed program from the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF), STEM Maker Lab^®, transforms these new spaces — as well as the classroom or after-school settings — into a true makerspace where young entrepreneurs can dive into learning in an environment of invention that builds perseverance, creativity, curiosity, problem solving, expression and communication skills.

The program features hands-on, project-based learning challenges that allow students to discover what it means to be an inventor. Every session incorporates six themes: inspiration, creativity, intellectual property, technology tools, marketing and entrepreneurship. A major focus of STEM Maker Lab is prototyping in both low-tech and high-tech environments, where students will go from idea generator to maker to game-changing innovator using materials that range from paper, wood and glue to 3-D printing.

Participants will go behind the scenes to meet the NIHF Inductees responsible for the design and innovation of many of the tools found in makerspaces across the nation. Then, they will discover the importance of being an entrepreneur as they create marketing materials and craft pitches to sell and bring their inventions to market.

"Our STEM Maker Lab program introduces students to the invention process at an early age and cultivates an interest in hands-on problem solving — a skill that will serve them well in the future," said NIHF CEO Michael Oister. "Using the 'idea-to-market cycle,' the curriculum teaches children that they can succeed through collaboration and to explore how to become an inventor and an entrepreneur. Equally as important, the program teaches the vital role that intellectual property plays in protecting their ideas and bringing their inventions to future customers."

NIHF's Innovation Ecosystem gets young innovators introduced to the invention process at an early age and cultivates that interest throughout their lives.

More information on the STEM Maker Lab is available at invent.org/programs/stem-maker-lab.

About the National Inventors Hall of Fame
The National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) is the premier nonprofit organization in America dedicated to recognizing inventors and invention, promoting creativity, and advancing the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Founded in 1973 in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, NIHF is committed to not only honoring the individuals whose inventions have made the world a better place, but to ensuring American ingenuity continues to thrive in the hands of coming generations through its national, hands-on educational programming and collegiate competitions focused on the exploration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate. For more information, visit invent.org. To nominate an inventor for Induction, visit invent.org/nominate.

CONTACT:
Ken Torisky
National Inventors Hall of Fame
[email protected] 
234-901-6085

SOURCE National Inventors Hall of Fame

Related Links

http://www.invent.org