The Bakken Museum, in collaboration with The Franklin Institute, offering free out of school time STEM programming throughout Minnesota

Science in the Summer™, now in its 37th year, aims to inspire the next generation of scientists Theme for 2023: Be a Physicist!

Minneapolis, Minn. - June 15, 2023 - GSK Science in the Summer™, a free STEM program for elementary-aged students designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, returns this summer with a new “Be a Physicist!” theme and an expanded footprint and curriculum. Supported by GSK and led by The Franklin Institute, the program expects to reach over 27,000 students throughout 78 organizations while providing valuable tools and training for 530 educators across the nation.

Across Minnesota, 600 students will experience being a physicist through fun, hands-on experiments at 13 schools, libraries, and community centers.

Students will be introduced to five “Be a Physicist!” activities that each highlight a real-world career. They will play the role of a laser scientist, power plant engineer, materials scientist, and more by finding solutions to problems tackled by these scientists. The program helps students recognize the importance of science, think scientifically, and improve problem-solving skills through age-appropriate activities that include 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.

“We’re proud to be among the top STEM education organizations across the nation providing interactive experiences for students while school is out of session,” said The Bakken Museum Vice President of Education Programs and Research Anika Taylor, “The Bakken Museum is thankful to GSK and The Franklin Institute for their continued collaboration in the Science in the Summer program.”

“GSK has a long history of investing in STEM education programs that increase access and improve outcomes for students who are traditionally underrepresented in STEM careers,” said Maya Martinez-Davis, President, US Pharmaceuticals at GSK. “GSK Science in the Summer™ provides elementary and middle school-aged students the opportunity to engage in hands-on STEM experiments and activities over their summer breaks, with the goal of putting them on the path to becoming our next generation of innovators.”

GSK Science in the Summer™ was created more than 36 years ago in Philadelphia as part of GSK’s commitment to supporting diverse and equitable participation in STEM education and careers, especially for those from backgrounds currently underrepresented in STEM fields. The program aims to 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, and help build the capacity for community-based organizations to positively engage youth in STEM through sustainable partnerships.

A 2022 program impact evaluation report administered by Rockman et al Cooperative (REA) shows that after participating in the program:

• 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

• 97% of host organizations had a greater capacity to engage youth in science activities, and 90% agreed that their organization was more likely to incorporate STEM into their regular programming

The Bakken Museum
The Bakken Museum inspires a passion for innovation by exploring the potential for science, technology, and the humanities to make the world a better place. Located on the West shore of Bde Maka Ska, the museum features interactive exhibits for all ages, a world-renowned collection of artifacts, and exceptional STEM education programs. For more information, visit thebakken.org. Find @thebakkenmusem on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

The Franklin Institute
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute is a renowned and innovative leader in science and technology learning and a dynamic center of activity. As Pennsylvania’s most visited museum, it is dedicated to creating a passion for learning about science by offering access to hands-on science education. For more information, visit www.fi.edu.

GSK 
GSK is a science-led global healthcare company. For further information, please visit   https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/about-us/.

*Evaluation data includes Philadelphia area program registration forms, OST and National Site Profiles, surveys from Philadelphia area caregivers, educators, and site coordinators, interviews with Philadelphia area caregivers and their child(ren) and OST site coordinators, and poll question responses from Philadelphia area youth participants.