The Illinois Science Explorers (I-Sci Explorers) works with researchers to transform research ideas and findings into educational activities, materials, and curriculum for general audiences, including young children, in our community. Our goal is to reach the community with the science research being done on campus. Not only can we reach those in the community that would not normally have access to innovative STEAM education, but we can also break the barrier between campus and the public.
I-Sci Explorers is a collaboration between some of the university’s biggest research institutes and centers, including the Center for Social & Behavioral Science (CSBS), the Beckman Institute, the Cancer Center at Illinois (CCIL), the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE), and the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA).
I-Sci Explorers brings a novel aspect of science programming to the table as we include social and behavioral science in our set of curricula. This type of science is not often considered when constructing STEAM programming but is an integral component of this subject. We strive to illustrate the broad variety of science to our community as we include innovative topics from all fields.
Community Partner
We are partnering with the Martens Center to reach the community. The Champaign Park District’s Marten Center – an expansive state-of-the-art facility in Champaign’s North Side – provides a unique opportunity for the University of Illinois to deliver transformative science experiences to our community. With this partnership, we have the opportunity to deliver programming to families in the community, as well as create programming for the Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club.
The I-Sci Explorers program is supported in part by the Campus-Community Compact which was put in place by the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign Chancellor’s Office of Public Engagement to accelerate social justice in the local community.
Learn more and get involved!
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Have an idea for a module?
If you have a research idea to share, or would to suggest a module, please fill out the form below.
Paige Duncan
Community Engagement Specialist