Selected students from the Community colleges have won the opportunity to design robotic rovers, in association with NASA. Around 92 school students were selected from 24 states to develop rovers at the NASA center, through a National Community College Aerospace Scholars program.
It motivates the students by equipping them with skill and knowledge in a combined discipline that includes science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Students will visit one of the two research spaces at NASA including its Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., from May 1 to3, or Johnson Space Center in Houston between May 9 and 11. Fictional companies based on Mars exploration will be established by the teams. A prototype rover will be designed and constructed by each team. The prototype rover can be programmed to explore through a specific area, collect rocks and water and then return back.
According to NASA's associate administrator for education, Leland Melvin, the Community College Aerospace Scholars programs enable community colleges to complement NASA’s scientific and exploration initiatives with its broad range of STEM expertise. By involving novice candidates in STEM initiatives, NASA can enhance and develop a strong and diverse workforce for its anticipated potentials.
Selection of representatives was based on the accomplishment of interactive web-based assignments during the school year. The on-site practical tour includes NASA facilities and conferences with engineers and agency scientists.
Texas Aerospace Scholars program serves as the foundation for this program. It resulted from the collaboration of Texas educational community with NASA. Aerospace Scholars programs were established with the intent to motivate students to pursue their careers in science and engineering, who will ultimately result in being a part of the nation’s technical workforce.
Source: http://www.nasa.gov/