The Wisconsin Out of School Time Alliance released a new episode of its podcast, “Beyond the Bell,” on Apr. 17 featuring the University of Wisconsin-Stout’s Middle School and High School Summer STEAM Camps. The episode discusses how students in grades 6-12 participate in hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, art/design, and math using real labs and studios at what is known as Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University.
These summer camps are designed to encourage curiosity and confidence among youth while connecting them with mentors and creative learning experiences. Beth Hein, executive director of Educational Pathways and Outreach at UW-Stout, said on the podcast that these programs help families and out-of-school-time organizations understand the value of such opportunities.
UW-Stout features modern labs, studios, and industry-linked spaces to enhance practical learning for students according to the official website. The university has received recognition as Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University for its blend of theory with application according to the official website. As part of the University of Wisconsin System according to the official website, UW-Stout emphasizes career readiness through hands-on instruction, industry partnerships, and creative teaching methods according to the official website.
The university supports technology integration by providing laptop computers to all full-time undergraduates through its eStout program according to the official website. It also builds relationships with businesses for internships, research projects, and career development opportunities according to the official website.
More than 300 youths from across the Midwest have explored potential career paths through these summer camps at UW-Stout each year by engaging in areas like robotics or cinema production.
