STEP Lab
About
The STEP (Solve, Tinker, Explore, and Play) Lab is a public space that supports the work of university faculty and visiting students, regional preK-12 teachers and students, and other entities (e.g., government agencies, NGOs, corporate partners). This work allows individuals to understand the complex nature of STEM concepts to construct new understandings for themselves in a fun, modern and modular space.
A priority for the STEP Lab is to find ways to link the technology in the lab with COEHS course curriculum. As a “home base,” the STEP lab serves as a central location for technology inside and outside the classroom. The lab serves as a space to explore emerging and new instructional technologies. This work can serve to demonstrate “proof of concept” of new equipment and practices through faculty research. Types of activities in the lab have included:
- Field trips for elementary and secondary students; Open to the public with approval and reservations
- Summer Camps
- Teacher professional development
- Post-secondary course delivery
- Professional networking
Sustainable Development Goals: Sustainable Medical Resources for the Community, Sustainable Clean Water Resources, and Sustainable Agricultural Resources. The Step Lab will have a “Mission Focus” which treats coding and making in this Maker space as “Computational Thinking and Innovation” with a Social Justice purpose.
Field Trips and Community Engagement
The STEP Lab hosts many school groups, where they engage in STEM activities, including coding and robotics. Open to the public, the STEP Lab requires all visitors to request and schedule events with the director at least 2 weeks in advance of visit. All visiting minors must be under guardian or chaperone supervision at all times.
For interest in scheduling a field trip, please fill out the request form.
Equipment and Space Use
UNF Students, Faculty and Staff can take advantage of the STEP Lab and the resources we provide. Due to COVID-19 restrictions the Lab is available in a limited capacity. Appointments and equipment requests can be made by emailing Xavier Rozas, STEP Lab Director, at xavier.rozas@unf.edu.
NEFSTEM Innovation Institute
College students Solve, Tinker, Explore and Play in real-world projects with the goal of becoming agents of change in their community as well as mentors to younger students.
Contact
For all STEP Lab field trips, equipment rental, room reservations and Innovation Institute inquiries, please contact Xavier Rozas, Coordinator of Professional Learning, at xavier.rozas@unf.edu
For interest in scheduling a field trip, please fill out the request form.