U.S. NSF Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program
Are you interested in STEM, teaching, and outdoor learning? The four-day Wittenberg FIRE week trip called Adolescent STEM and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park–Institute at Tremont could be the trip for you! Wittenberg students from a wide range of majors interacted with faculty learning how teachers from across the country implement experiential learning opportunities outside with students. In this biodiverse environment, students hiked, enjoyed bonfires, explored mountains and creeks, sang Bluegrass music or learned folk dancing and reflected on their own professional direction.
Step outside and have your curiosity and creativity stimulated by this biodiverse environment while learning how classrooms without walls provide endless opportunities. Hike off the beaten path to the Spruce Flat Falls waterfall tucked in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and reconsider how to teach STEM concepts and reflect on your professional mindfulness. Wittenberg students learned how you might incorporate thrill rides as experiential learning opportunities. In 2024, the group rode the award-winning Moonshine Mountain Coaster while implementing exposure therapy methods designed to treat specific phobias. As a sequel, FIRE Week 2025 rode a newer, longer coaster called the Lost Mine Mountain Coaster. In 2026, participants will ride the longest coaster in Tennessee - The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster. Other new activities will take place in 2026 as well for students who want to return to GSMIT. Students interested in a STEM field, education, therapy, or fun are all encouraged to apply!
Dates for the 2026 GSMIT trip are from Monday, March 2nd through Thursday, March 5th. Application for the 2026 GSMIT F.I.R.E. Week is only open until November 4th, 2025!
And if you would like to apply for a $295 scholarships from the ASCENT-STEM grant read more here:
Additional GSMIT Scholarship Information
For more information, please contact Dr. Michael Daiga at daigam@wittenberg.edu
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