Beyond the Universe: South Dakota Discovery Center
About Educational Resource
Beyond the Universe implemented the MicroObservatory into middle school curriculum to engage students in local communities. The project used a combination of NASA’s Universe of Learning activities and resources to address Next Generation Science Standards that allow students to explore the universe by taking and processing their own images of space using the MicroObservatory robotic telescopes and tools. The project culminated in a capstone contest, and the winning pictures and stories were included in a museum exhibit.
This Program Model was developed and authored by South Dakota Discovery Center, with minimal editorial input and review from NASA's Universe of Learning. NASA's Universe of Learning has contributed astrophysics content and subject matter expertise to support the creation of this material.
Other organizations may adapt these materials to meet the needs of their specific audiences. While this Program Model was designed to serve the local audience of the authoring institution, it is shared here as an example for broader use. Users should adjust it as needed and use all or some of the content, as appropriate, for their own needs.
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Goals and Recommendations
Goals
- Provide high-quality, standards-based science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning opportunities to increase science performance scores
- Get students excited about STEM and increase students STEM identity
- Introduce teachers to NASA educational resources and model effective ways to use resources in their classroom.
Recommendations
The program is a great way to engage students and teachers who conduct activities virtually. The implementation of the program needs to be adjusted, but can work if a computer and internet connection are available.
This program was originally developed for students at middle schools located in South Dakota.