IDEAS - Innovation Driven Engineering And Science™
Vision
A community inspired and enriched by personal engagement with science and engineering, and empowered by functional, integrated knowledge of these subjects.
Mission
Working with the University and the community, the UTD Science and Engineering Education Center (SEEC) creates, develops, implements, and supports innovative and effective Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) educational outreach programs. The SEEC vision of creating broad-based inspiration, engagement, and functional, integrated knowledge in STEM areas leads to programmatic emphases on
- Informal science education (free-choice learning)
- Project-based (inquiry-based) learning
- Systems thinking
Approach
The SEEC reaches a broad spectrum of students and educators, and supports life-long learning for all ages. The SEEC is a results-oriented center, with programs supported by educational research.
Many SEEC programs take advantage of modern educational technologies such as robotics, computer modeling, and computer-assisted learning. Developing the full educational potential of such technologies and applying them to a larger educational context is critical for their success.
Whether teaching fundamental concepts or providing intellectual preparation for the complexity of real-world tasks, the SEEC creates opportunities for genuine engagement in the learning process and with the world around us.
To carry out its mission, the SEEC develops highly productive and mutually beneficial partnerships, both within and outside of UT Dallas. Such partnerships involve PK-12 schools, science museums, science centers, public libraries, corporations, foundations, and other public and private institutions, along with students and faculty at UTD and other colleges and universities.
Updated: October 9, 2012
