STEM camp shifts learning into high gear for Watervliet students

Weeklong camp put Watervliet and Menands students in the driver’s seat for learning

Cars and Chemistry was the theme of the annual science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) camp, which brought together about two dozen seventh- and eighth-grade students from the Menands and Watervliet schools to learn and have fun.

This year’s camp featured hands-on experiments with constructing and driving electric radio-controlled (RC) cars, and researching the chemistry, math and engineering that make the RC cars run. Related learning activities included 3D printing of car parts, electroplating, and utilizing tools, teamwork, and data to optimize vehicle performance. “These are activities that are actually part of the [auto] industry, and it provides an avenue for the students to learn the fundamentals,” said teacher Jamie Burleigh.

Student holds a remote controller in hand and activates the wheels on a radio-controlled car A student inspects the battery and wires, and cleans the sensors of a radio-controlled car Two students work together to prepare a radio-controlled car for a race

Students worked in teams throughout the week on projects that ignited their interest in science, math and engineering, and shifted the students’ knowledge of those topics into overdrive. This included building autonomous electric vehicles (AV/EV) from components, and automating those vehicles by installing and programming electronics, sensors and a microcontroller. They also participated in a few “sweet” chemistry-based experiments, such as making ice-cream and chocolate-covered marshmallows.

Members of the Dream Team stand together while holding their radio-controlled car and its controller The Powerpuff team stands together smiling and celebrating victory with their radio-controlled car

Watervliet students from the Dream Team said their favorite STEM camp activities included driving the RC cars and the pit-stop practices where they learned to use different tools like the multi-meter, a spring scale and wrenches.

Members of Vliet’s PowerPuffs Team enjoyed racing the RC cars and the chemistry experiments, especially electroplating, which they explained helps protect and repair metal, including various car parts.

During the STEM Camp Showcase on the final day of camp, the PowerPuffs team placed first in the RC races by completing the most laps in a timed competition, followed closely by the Dream Team in second place. Congratulations to both teams!

The STEM camp, which is coordinated by Capital Region BOCES in partnership with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, was hosted at Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School. The program, learning materials and instruction were provided by Ten80 Education, a Schuylerville-based STEM education organization.