Our Approach

The Science Club approach is built on a collaborative ecosystem of long-term programs, hands-on learning, small-group mentorship, and rigorous research.

WORKING TOGETHER

We work in partnership to collectively addresses STEM education gaps for communities in need. Together, Science in Society (a center at Northwestern University), Chicago Public Schools and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago –along with a growing network of community and educational partners — are working to engage students and teachers through long-term programs, bridging in-school and out-of-school learning.

The Science Club approach is based on dialogue and exchange. Our teachers, scientists, and afterschool specialists work together, sharing information and ideas to provide whole-child support for Science Club members. Each partner brings something unique to the relationship, and as a whole, we’re stronger than the sum of our parts.

For us, partnership and collaboration aren’t just buzz words. The Science Club approach — and both programs from which it stems — are founded on listening first. Asking how university partners and science professionals can help and support our communities, and finding adaptable, flexible and responsive solutions for the unique challenges ahead.

OUR APPROACH

Bridging In-school and Out-of-school learning

By building a strong network of in-school and out-of-school partners, we’re fostering an ecosystem of support for our members. We can leverage the best practices from both approaches to learning, and provide more cohesive, more tailored support for our participants.

Community-centered program design

We strive to support communities, schools, and neighborhoods without access to high-quality enrichment programs or extensive science resources. Our approach stems from community-centered needs. We develop context-specific solutions and work collaboratively to create meaningful engagement at every level.

Long-term small-group mentoring

Long-term, encouraging support is central to our learning philosophy. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are engaged, informed and confident learners. Mentors build core relationships through active, small-group activities which challenge and support learners of all abilities and from all backgrounds.

Rigorous evaluation and evidence-based methods

Our programs are educational research projects. We want to find out what’s working (and what’s not) and share it with a wider community of educators and community members to ensure we’re all making an impact.

Interested in learning more about our Science Club programs?

Summer Camp

Afterschool

This is an outstanding program, no question about it. Science Club participants understand they really can achieve their dreams. Our children are getting the best level of science education at their ages anywhere.
James KeanePresident and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago 2008-2015

There are kids who don’t even have a home to go to, but they have this safe place to come once a week and learn all about high-level STEM from actual graduate students from Northwestern. There’s no other thing I’ve seen like it.
Gerard KovachTeacher, Chicago Public Schools