Summer STEM Programs for Elementary Students
Summer STEM Programs for Elementary Students
Virginia Tech summer STEM programs give elementary students time to investigate, create, and solve problems through immersive, hands-on learning. Program topics vary and can introduce learners to engineering design, data, technology, physical science, and other STEM concepts through age-appropriate challenges and projects. Instead of simply watching a demonstration, students collect information, test ideas, build solutions, and learn from the design process. These experiences are designed to build curiosity and confidence while helping young learners see connections between STEM, the world around them, and the kinds of problems engineers and scientists work to solve.
Location: Virginia Tech’s Academic Building One in Alexandria
Registration typically opens late November/Early December 2026
Explore Programs:
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Data Detectives: Explore Tech in Action
Follow the clues hidden in data.
Data Detectives: Explore Tech in Action introduces elementary students to the ways data helps us understand technology and the world around us. Through hands-on investigations with sensors and computers, learners collect, interpret, and use data while building curiosity, problem-solving skills, and early confidence with STEM and technology. Students strengthen hands-on learning, project-based learning and computer science while connecting what they learn to real-world problems and future opportunities.
Audience / Grade Range: Grades: 2-5
Upcoming Dates / Availability: Summer Only | July 26 - July 30 | 8:30am - 12:30pm
Duration: 25 hours
Registration Fee / Program Cost: $400 Pathway Scholarships Available
Program Overview
The Data Detective: Explore Tech in Action is a thrilling adventure that lets students dive into the wondrous world of technology! This program is packed with fun and excitement as students discover how modern gadgets work, including cool sensors and computers. They will have a blast with hands-on activities, making learning both fun and engaging!
Exploring Sensor Technology / Types of Sensors
Students will become tech explorers as they discover different types of sensors, each with its own special job. These sensors include:
- Light Sensors: See how we measure light and darkness.
- Color Sensors: Find out how machines tell colors apart.
- Sound Sensors: Discover how machines "hear" sounds.
- Air Quality Sensors: Check out how clean the air is.
- Temperature Sensors: Feel the changes in temperature.
- Gesture Sensors: Wave and watch how devices respond!
Coding, Data Literacy, and Problem Solving
But that's not all! Students will jump into coding, learning how to tell computers to do awesome things. They'll also delve into data literacy, understanding how to interpret and use data effectively. By solving puzzles and tackling challenges, they'll boost their thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun way.
The Data Detective: Explore Tech in Action is a magical mix of science and technology, offering a fun-filled journey full of discovery and creativity. Join us for an adventure that’s sure to inspire and excite.
Engineer a Robot Limb
Engineer movement. Test ideas. Build solutions.
Students explore engineering and biomechanics by designing a model robotic limb. Through hands-on building, testing, and redesign, elementary learners investigate how engineers solve movement challenges while practicing creativity, teamwork, and iterative problem-solving. This program is specifically designed to engage elementary students with hands-on and minds-on activities, allowing them to explore and understand the fascinating intersection of technology and healthcare. Students strengthen hands-on learning, project-based learning and college and career readiness while connecting what they learn to real-world problems and future opportunities.
Audience / Grade Range: Grades: 3-5
Upcoming Dates / Availability: Summer Only | June 22 - June 25 | 8:30am - 12:30pm
Duration: 20-25 hours
Registration Fee / Program Cost: Free
Mandatory student and parent virtual orientation one week prior to prorgram starting. Details will be emailed to parents/guardians after registration.
Program Overview
In this half-day, one-week program, students will dive into the field of biomedical engineering by:
- Exploring the Skeletal System: Students will learn about the structure and function of the skeletal system, understanding how bones, joints, and muscles work together to enable movement.
- Examining Prosthetic Needs: Participants will take on the role of a biomedical engineer by assessing a client’s needs for a prosthetic limb. This involves understanding the function of a missing limb and determining how a prosthetic can replicate or enhance that function.
- Designing and Building Prosthetic Limbs: Using creativity and problem-solving skills, students will design and construct their own prosthetic limbs. This activity will encourage innovation and engineering design skills, as well as teach practical skills in budgeting and resource management.
- Testing and Iterating: Students will test their prosthetic designs, learning the importance of iteration in the engineering process. They will evaluate their designs, make improvements, and understand the impact of modifications.
- Creating a budget and prosthetic presentation: Students will document their prototype design budget and present the features of their prosthetic in a short advertisements or presentations.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the program, students will:
- Gain a foundational understanding of the skeletal system and its role in human movement.
- Learn key engineering design skills and the iterative process.
- Develop practical skills in budgeting and resource management.
- Appreciate the impact of technology on healthcare.
- Be inspired to consider future careers in engineering, robotics, and biomedical engineering.
Program Highlights
Engagement with Experts: Students will have the opportunity to interact with scientists, engineers, and STEM educators, gaining insights into real-world applications of their learning.
Onsite Field Experience: Participants will experience a dynamic environment where they can see biomedical engineering in action.
Virginia Tech-Branded Giveaways: Each student will receive a Virginia Tech t-shirt and lanyard as a memento of their participation in the program.
Healthy Snack: A nutritious snack will be provided to keep energy levels high during the activities.
Join us for a day of discovery and innovation, where young learners can unleash their potential and see how their creativity can change lives through technology. This program promises to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators in the field of biomedical engineering.
Science of Flight
Register for The Science of Flight, an exhilarating summer program where elementary students can dive into the dynamic world of aviation through the high-flying sport of drone soccer! This half-day program, spanning over 12 hours, is designed to ignite curiosity and excitement while providing a foundational understanding of the science of flight.
Upcoming Dates / Availability: Summer Only | July 6-9,2027
Duration: 5 days
Time: 8:30am to 12:30pm
Registration Fee: $400, (Pathway Scholarships available)
Location: Virginia Tech Academic Building One in Alexandria
Grade Range: 2-5
Mandatory student and parent virtual orientation one week prior to prorgram starting. Details will be emailed to parents/guardians after registration.
Ready to Launch!
Register for the Science of Flight, an exhilarating summer program where elementary students can dive into the dynamic world of aviation through the high-flying sport of drone soccer! This half-day program, spanning over 12 hours, is designed to ignite curiosity and excitement while providing a foundational understanding of the science of flight.
Discover the Thrill of Drone Soccer
In this hands-on, full-contact program, students will:
- Explore the Fascinating Science of Drones: Uncover the fundamental principles that allow drones to soar through the skies.
- Learn the Parts and Functions of a Drone: Gain an understanding of the components that make up a drone and how each part contributes to its flight.
- Engage in Engineering and Science Challenges: Participate in thrilling flight school activities that challenge students to apply their knowledge in innovative ways.
- Understand Real-World Applications: Discover the numerous ways drones are used in various industries, from agriculture to filmmaking.
- Master Battery Safety and FAA Guidelines: Learn the important safety protocols and regulations that govern drone operation.
- Develop Teamwork Skills: Collaborate with peers to strategize and compete in the eSports world of drone technology.
Basic Principles of Flight
Students will delve into the essential concepts of flight:
- Lift and Thrust: Understand how these forces work together to lift a drone off the ground and propel it forward.
- Drag and Gravity: Explore the forces that oppose motion and how they affect flight.
Competitive and Educational Fun
Throughout the program, students will engage in exciting, friendly drone soccer matches, providing a fun and competitive way to apply what they've learned. These matches not only enhance their understanding of flight but also promote teamwork and strategic thinking.
Explore Career Opportunities
In addition to the hands-on activities, the program introduces students to potential careers in the field of aviation and drone technology. By the end of the program, students will have a clearer vision of how their newfound skills can translate into future opportunities.
Join us this summer for an unforgettable journey into the science of flight, where education meets excitement in the sky-high arena of drone soccer!