The Wonder of Flight
Discover the wonders of flight from concept to reality
Throughout history, people have been fascinated by the flight of birds and dreamed of taking to the skies. Through creativity and experimentation, this dream was realized, and advances in aviation continue to affect today’s world. The Wonder that is Flight pod will use the principles and physics of flight to create an experiential environment where visitors of all ages will discover fundamental science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. This area will provide a peek inside the wonder of flying with hands on exhibits and experiments that demonstrate the science behind aviation and incite the same imagination that conquered the mystery of flight.
Identifying the Need
A basic understanding of math and science is essential for citizens to participate in today’s information driven world and global economy. However, students must learn and utilize advanced math and science skills in order to effectively confront the complex technological demands of the future.
According to a report from the National Academy of Engineering entitled Raising Public Awareness of Engineering, “Our national security and competitiveness, as well as our standard of living, depend on our technology-driven strength.” Most critical issues facing our nation such as global warming, atmospheric pollution, and energy independence require extensive engineering and technical efforts. These issues demand an increased national engineering competence. Yet, assessments continue to show a deficiency in the technical knowledge and skills of American students, especially when compared with other countries.
The 2006 Program for International Student Assessment measured how well 15-year olds in 29 countries applied their knowledge in mathematics and science to problems with real-life context. U.S. students ranked 21st in science and 24th in math and scored below the national average in both subjects. PISA also showed that more than a quarter of American 15-year-olds have failed to acquire the most basic mathematical skills.
The 2007 National Assessment of Educational Progress, the Nation’s Report Card, measured what students know and can do in mathematics. Only five percent of 4th graders scored at the advanced level while 19 percent scored below basic. Seven percent of 8th graders scored at the advanced level but 30 percent scored below basic.
Topic Description
Visitors will embark on a mission of discovery as they follow the science of flight from concept all the way to reality. Workstations in this pod will challenge visitors to discover and apply STEM concepts through hands-on activities and experiments. Workstations will feature simulators, aircraft engines, and working scale models of various aircraft systems such as landing gear. Visitors will manipulate a radio controlled model airplane within a wind tunnel to see the effects of stability and control. The flaps, ailerons, elevator, and rudder on the museum’s Lockheed JetStar will be motorized, allowing visitors to control the movement of these surfaces.
Visitors will also encounter other facets of aviation such as Navigation, Air Traffic Management, Meteorology, Engineering and Manufacturing and Human Factors. An active Air Traffic Control station will show the role of electronics in modern aircraft systems and displays.
Intended Impact
AMMG will increase the STEM knowledge of students by providing a hands-on, inquiry based environment that engages multiple types of learners. By actively discovering STEM concepts, students will not only better learn but also retain their newly acquired knowledge. Hands-on experiments and exhibits help to explain scientific phenomena and ensure that their newly acquired knowledge stays firmly lodged in the museum visitor’s memories.
AMMG will improve student problem-solving and critical thinking skills by engaging students in real-world problem solving activities. Aviation offers students a real-world reason to use science, technology, engineering and math.
Measurement
To verify that the AMMG is making a difference and impacting the problems aforementioned, volunteers, staff and consultants will conduct the necessary research, quantify the intended goals, and collect data accordingly. More specifically, visitors will be assessed (formally and informally as appropriate) before, during and after their visit, especially school groups. The data will be analyzed and presented by an external party for use by AMMG to improve their methods and receive feedback on their programs and exhibits. These measurement techniques will be utilized with all of the museum pods and programs.
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