STEM students get remote learning help from NUWC Division Newport

NEWPORT – The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport helped 350 students in New Bedford public schools complete an online science, technology, engineering and mathematics program created in light of COVID-19 precautions.

According to the undersea warfare center, Sea Lab Marine Science Education Center teachers in New Bedford developed the virtual and hands-on plan to keep teachers and students safe. The science curriculum consists of one- and two-hour remote science learning experiences geared at promoting a love of science. The nationally recognized marine science program is offered at no cost, according to the undersea warfare center.

The center’s Newport division hosted the New Bedford teachers at its Undersea Collaboration and Technology Outreach Center. Teachers there helped Sea Lab students remotely code the movement of undersea robots built during online classes.

“Students spent so much time in front of a screen this spring – we wanted to be able to provide a hands-on experience, even if remotely,” Division Newport Educational Director Candie Desjardins said. “Our outreach team did a great job creating something we can continue in whatever form schools return to.”

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The center’s assistance with the program was appreciated by the Sea Lab team.

“Sea Lab students tell me all of the time that they never knew that science careers were an option for them and that the program has opened their eyes to new opportunities,” said Simone Bourgeois, Sea Lab facilitator, in a statement.

The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport provides research, development, test and evaluation, engineering and fleet support for submarines, autonomous underwater systems and defensive weapons systems for the U.S. Navy.

Susan Shalhoub is a PBN contributing writer.