Critical thinking in action: Scientiae’s project-based learning approach to STEM

Photo credit: Scientiae

Scientiae is a leading educational organization dedicated to empowering future generations with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) landscape. Based in Florida, Scientiae offers comprehensive programs for grades PreK-12 that focus on hands-on, project-based learning and early career awareness. At Scientiae, program staff believe that technology is transforming the educational learning experience. Therefore, Scientiae is committed to helping today’s youth become creative problem solvers and effective collaborators in the ever-changing technological landscape. Jason Williams, a Scientiae teacher, explains, 

“With Scientiae, we don’t give kids answers – we only give them problems to solve… it makes teaching fun and helps them see beyond the content, giving insight into how they can make a difference in the world.”  (source: Scientiae website)

When it comes to supporting older youth, Scientiae is dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional schooling and the demands of the modern workforce by immersing middle and high school students in rigorous, project-based STEM learning. Scientiae President, Khary Henry, explains, “We’ve seen that there needs to be a bridge to more project-based learning to supplement local school systems.” To meet this need, Scientiae offers a combination of structured programs, including year-round afterschool programs as well as summer camps.

Scientiae’s middle school (grades 6-8) curriculum is delivered through the Innovator Program, an afterschool program emphasizing hands-on learning and skill development. For high school students, Scientiae’s Future Forward Program provides advanced instruction through project-based assignments and valuable real-world experiences such as internships and mentorships. In addition to these formats, Scientiae also offers dedicated summer camps, typically one to two weeks for high schoolers, and partners with multiple schools to deliver their STEM curricula throughout the year.

For the past two years, Scientiae has been a leader in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) content directly into its programming. Their technology curriculum teaches practical skills in C++ and Python and introduces advanced concepts like machine learning and building chatbots. The focus is always on inquiry-based learning, where students work individually or in groups to design resolutions to complex problems.

Older youth programs provide the freedom and ability to solve problems, emphasizing critical thinking and design. High school students, for example, have taken on advanced projects like building and programming a water turbine in C++ to learn about free energy and environmental sustainability, or constructing and programming an EKG machine. Students consistently grasp these advanced concepts once they are introduced in an engaging, hands-on environment.

Another critical component of Scientiae’s programming is ethics in AI. Scientiae believes that understanding how AI impacts society and decision-making is just as important as the technology itself, teaching students how this technology affects communities and how ethical frameworks guide its development. By committing to advanced concepts, focusing on project mastery, and building key partnerships, Scientiae is actively creating competitive pathways and confidence for the next generation of STEM professionals.

“Introducing youth to AI isn’t just about teaching tools; it’s about unlocking possibilities. We see students gain confidence, curiosity, and a deeper sense of agency as they realize they can use technology to create real solutions for real problems. Our commitment is to guarantee that students from every background have genuine access to these emerging tools. By enabling equitable opportunities in AI education, we’re not only preparing young people for future careers, we’re strengthening the foundation of an inclusive and forward-looking innovation pipeline. We believe in the importance of providing the next generation with the tools to help build a world that they will inherit.” — Khary Henry, President of Scientiae

Reaching and supporting older youth through afterschool STEM requires creativity and adaptive models. This blog is part of a series showcasing afterschool programs serving older youth through STEM engagement. If you are involved with or know of an afterschool STEM program that is impactfully engaging older youth, please let us know by emailing us at stemhub@afterschoolalliance.org.