By Tyler King
Innovation is one of the most essential parts of progression, and innovation is most commonly found in the field of STEM. Engaging in hands-on projects is crucial for college students learning more about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These projects not only deepen knowledge but also promote creativity and problem-solving. So, if you are a college student looking to innovate in STEM, here are three exciting projects to get you started!
1. Water Filtration
In this activity, students investigate the science behind water filtration. They will experiment with techniques like aeration and filtering to find the best filter method. They will start with a dirty water bottle and attempt to filter it to clear it. With this project, college students can explore experimental design and engineering to learn how to innovate solutions to problems like unfiltered water.
Activity link: Water Filtration – Teachengineering.org
Materials needed: 2-liter bottles, mesh, rubber bands, spoons, filter paper, cotton balls, soil, sand, pebbles, charcoal, an aquarium aerator, measuring cups, gallon jugs, and water.
2. Strawberry DNA Extraction
With this activity, students can extract the DNA from a strawberry using a mixture of salt and detergent. The detergent helps lyse the strawberry cells, causing them to release their DNA. Then, the salt makes it so the different DNA strands can gather in a clump. After adding some alcohol, the DNA clumps, forming a visible gooey liquid. This project allows students to explore biology hands-on and teaches about experimental design.
Activity link: Strawberry DNA Extraction – Sciencebuddies.org
Materials needed: rubbing alcohol, salt, water, strawberries, measuring cups, measuring spoons, glass bowls, funnels, drinking glasses, cheesecloth, sandwich bags, small glass jars, and bamboo skewers.
3. Bottle Rockets
This activity allows students to experiment with launching soda bottles. They can design their bottle rockets and use a launcher to see how their design works. They will also design a parachute to deploy on the way down. This activity allows students to explore innovative design and engineering to design the best rocket.
Activity link: Bottle Rockets – Sciencebuddies.org
Materials needed: bottle launcher, 2-liter bottles, water, funnels, petroleum jelly, a bicycle pump, milk cartons, measuring tapes, scissors, duct tape, markets, string, and plastic bags.
Engaging in STEM projects like these empowers college students to explore their innovation and make meaningful scientific connections. From water filtration to bottle rockets, these projects are perfect opportunities for collaboration, exploration, and hands-on learning. So, embrace these three activities and let your STEM side show!
Do you want more resources on the topic of STEM projects? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
When a college/university student achieves membership in the National STEM Honor Society, the recognition, like many colleges, is in a Greek letter format. For the National STEM Honor Society, Epsilon Theta Mu is the designated recognition for members at the college/university level. Students are distinguished and stand out as a result of this recognition, increasing appealing employment and educational opportunities, click here.
