STEAM Hub 4 CISS

Reading the book “Getting Funded: The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals” by Susan Howlet & Renee Bourque (with over 45 year in print) we learn that “The Why” of the organization needs to be clearly articulated. Of course this is a reminder of Simon Sinek’s book “Start With Why” when looking for the strength of an organization.

“There is a need” is not enough, if one is seeking for support. In our case, yes, we can say that there is a need for The Hub. For a safe space where young (of all ages) can come and find pathways for a prosperous and meaningful life. But this statement is not enough! So I need your help, dear readers, colleagues, and partners. We need a much better explanation of this need. Also, we need to write about how The Hub is going to be part of the solution and how are we going to collaborate with the other organizations, nonprofit and for-profit, that are already working to satisfy the need that we are addressing.

So, what is the situation? What information, data or anecdotes are there to sustain our idea that a safe space where people can come to pursue their dream is necessary? Is there a need for another “playground”, “maker space”, or business incubator?

I believe that the answer is YES! And here is why.

The educational system has wonderful and dedicated teachers, and they are focus on delivering “content” related to their subject. These teachers are going far beyond what is required in the classroom. But they are limited in several areas, the system which has beed design many years ago, doesn’t allow for adaptation to the rapid changes in our society, thus many students find themselves lost among the myriad new avenues for their future. Traditional careers, either with or without college degrees have changed dramatically. New hybrid careers and professions are needed and more importantly new systemic thinking based on creativity and innovation needs to be part of their education. This is normally accomplished with extracurricular activities like science fairs, robotics competitions and the like.

Now, these activities are normally done parallel to the traditional system where schools provide the elements that students need to be included in these fairs and competitions. These programs have a clear and well developed set of goals, and students integrate to accomplish the pre-established goals. There they will have the opportunity to explore within the boundaries of the project’s objective. But many students need the freedom to explore without a set objective. They need to learn to use the tools and artifacts based on their needs, without being directed by a set goal.

In his book “Lifelong Kindergarten” Mitchel Resnick (MIT Professor, creator of the Scratch language use by LEGO, and founder of The Computer Clubhouse) opens the door to real creativity and innovation by establishing a system of collaboration where projects (the first P of his 4 Ps) are followed by the need of passion, the interaction with peers, and finally and most important play. This last element is what I believe is lacking in the traditional school system, due to the emphasis made on “grade” performance.

Play is then an important why in support of The Hub.

As I tell my students in class: “if you are not having fun, you are not learning!”

Can you add in the comments why do you think The Hub can help in the development of young people?