Programs will be divided into three components:
Pre-museum visit support for teachers, supplying materials and activities for the classroom. The lessons will include programs with proven effectiveness in aerospace-related science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activities aligned with state and national education standards and frameworks from established organizations such as the National Air and Space Administration, the Academy of Model Aeronautics, and the Federal Aviation Administration. Museum outreach to other organizations will expand, providing additional opportunities for school-based distance-learning lessons and career education.
Interactive, curriculum-related activities that will be available during a museum visit, focusing on opportunities for hands-on construction of simple models as well as electronic and video simulations and problem-based challenges, based on the museum’s exhibits and collections.
After-school and weekend programs featuring engaging hands-on, interactive activities in classes presented by specialists for children and families, based on the historical materials and artifacts unique to Massachusetts and New England region.
Partnerships will be developed with education, state and federal agencies, as well as aerospace industries and organizations having similar interests and resources to promote STEM education. Programs will be designed collaboratively with community-based adult and youth organizations such as local groups of Boy and Girl Scouts, 4-H clubs, AMA chartered clubs and chapters of the Experimental Aircraft Association.
The general public will have opportunities for self-guided tours that are relatively low-cost, easily reproduced and can be designed with content to attract a variety of audiences. However, beyond the typical docent-led or self-guided tour found in most museums, MASM will offer educational opportunities organized for visitors to participate in special evening and weekend events, giving parents, students, and children a new appreciation and understanding of the aviation, space exploration, science and technology history that is the rich aerospace legacy of Massachusetts.
