Overview

GSK Science in the Summer™ is a free summer STEM program designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. Created over 37 years ago in Philadelphia, it supports diverse and equitable STEM education. The program provides exciting opportunities for elementary and middle school-aged students to embody science careers, think scientifically, and have fun through hands-on, age-appropriate experiments. It operates as a national network led by The Franklin Institute, reaching thousands of youth through partnerships with community-based organizations nationwide, including The Bakken Museum in Minnesota.

The program returns this summer with a new theme: Be a Space Scientist! Students will dive deep into the fascinating world of space exploration and be introduced to different career paths as they step into the roles of Astrobiologist, Planetary Geologist, Robotics Engineer, Rocket Engineer, and Spacesuit Designer. Previous themes include 'Be a Physicist!', where students played the role of a laser scientist, power plant engineer, materials scientist, and more.

Additional Information

• Partners: GSK, The Franklin Institute, The Bakken Museum, 22 informal science institutions, 290 community-based youth-serving organizations nationwide.
• Program History: Created more than 37 years ago in Philadelphia.
• Goals:
  • Increase confidence among young students in doing science and pursuing STEM careers.
  • Grow the confidence and skills of educators to lead high-quality informal STEM programs for youth.
  • Help build the capacity for community-based organizations to positively engage youth in STEM through sustainable partnerships.
• Impact (2022 program evaluation by Rockman et al Cooperative):
  • 94% of children reported an increase in their confidence in doing science.
  • 78% of educators said they are more comfortable teaching STEM topics, and 85% reported being more interested in teaching STEM topics.
• Curriculum: Developed by The Franklin Institute, freely available at scienceinthesummer.fi.edu.
• Reach:
  • Estimated 23,400 youth in grades 2-6 through the national network this year.
  • Nearly 600 children across Minnesota this summer.
  • Expects to reach over 27,000 students throughout 78 organizations while providing valuable tools and training for 530 educators across the nation.
• Themes & Activities:
  • Current Theme (Summer 2024): 'Be a Space Scientist!' Students will dive deep into the fascinating world of space exploration and be introduced to different career paths as they step into the roles of Astrobiologist, Planetary Geologist, Robotics Engineer, Rocket Engineer, and Spacesuit Designer.
  • Previous Theme (Summer 2023): 'Be a Physicist!' Students were introduced to five activities highlighting real-world careers, playing roles like laser scientist, power plant engineer, and materials scientist. Activities included sending laser signals to relay messages to Earth, engineering a device to amplify video game sound, and designing a ski suit to keep athletes warm.
• Materials: Each student will receive their own kit of materials (e.g., for engineering challenges).
• Locations: The program is offered throughout Minnesota at schools, libraries, and community centers (e.g., 13 locations in Minnesota for the 'Be a Physicist!' theme).
• Instruction: Includes in-person and livestreaming components (e.g., for Red Lake Elementary students on specific dates in 2023).