Morningside University receives grant for aviation and STEM education
Morningside University in Sioux City will use a new grant to expand both undergraduate and K-12 students’ access to aviation and STEM teaching through new curriculum and outreach efforts.
The Iowa Space Grant Consortium has awarded Morningside University a $20,000 grant to establish its “Advancing Vigorous Instruction for Aviation Training Excellence” (AVIATE) initiative, according to a news release.
Morningside University will create “transdisciplinary learning modules” with the grant, according to the release, bringing together aviation training and STEM principles.
The modules will be added to the college’s aviation program, a course on drone management and operations taught in the applied agricultural and food studies department and a course for future teachers on teaching natural and agricultural sciences. The college’s school of aviation launched with its first cohort of students in fall 2023.
The university will also offer the modules to K-12 schools and organizations like the Air and Transportation Museum to encourage young people’s interest in STEM education and careers, the release stated.
School of Agriculture and Aviation Dean Thomas Paulsen will lead the program in collaboration with other Morningside University faculty and students, the release stated, with the goal of transforming aviation and STEM education for students in both primary and higher education.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant from the Iowa Space Grant Consortium,” Paulsen said in the release. “AVIATE represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide our students with the best possible education in aviation. By creating these innovative learning modules, we will enhance student preparation for successful careers in the aviation industry while also inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers in our community.”