Dozens of middle-schoolers participate in virtual, interactive STEM activities led by Lehigh's SWE members in longstanding partnership with Bosch Rexroth; online programming to continue through spring
Lehigh’s CHOICES program took a virtual approach during the Fall 2020 semester to continue its mission of building interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among middle-school girls.
During October and November, the program, which is a long-standing partnership with Bosch Rexroth led by Lehigh’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), engaged with nearly 60 students in Pennsylvania and New Jersey schools through interactive, online activities.
“Engineering outreach helps to show kids how they can apply what they've learned in the classroom to make a real-world difference,” says Allison Codi ’22, SWE CHOICES co-chair. “In these turbulent times, it is increasingly important to show kids that they are capable of being the change this world needs through creative thinking and opportunities in STEM.”
The lessons dug into current topics such as cybersecurity, testing participants’ knowledge and critical-thinking skills around passwords. Students worked through the engineering design process of a waterproof structure, learning the importance of planning before building and building a basic understanding of forces and static structures. In another virtual session, girls got a taste of basic chemistry while making their own ice cream at home.
CHOICES—which stands for Charting Horizons and Opportunities in Careers in Engineering and Science—was founded in 1993. In recent years, it has consisted of two (spring/fall) one-day in-person learning experiences on Lehigh’s campus, along with two sessions of a highly popular weeklong summer day camp led by students and faculty.
Although plans for Summer 2021 are still to be determined, CHOICES will continue online programming during the months ahead.
“Despite the limitations the pandemic imposes, virtual Spring CHOICES sessions will provide important opportunities for girls to gain exposure to STEM activities and learn alongside college-age mentors,” says Jessica Franolic ’22, a member of the SWE outreach team who helped coordinate the fall series.
Year after year, SWE volunteers are the backbone of the program, says Chayah Wilbers, events manager for the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. “We were amazed at the positive feedback from participants and teachers about the virtual programs these dedicated students put together. This is just one more example of the out-of-the-box thinkers Lehigh produces.”
