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Post: Brilliant Labs Receives $400,000 for STEM Programs in Newfoundland and Labrador Schools
Title: Brilliant Labs Receives $400,000 for STEM Programs in Newfoundland and Labrador Schools
Focus Key Phrases:
- Brilliant Labs STEM funding
- Newfoundland and Labrador coding programs
- STEM education initiatives Canada
- Hands-on STEM activities in schools
- Government funding for STEM education
Tags: STEM education, coding for kids, Brilliant Labs, Newfoundland schools, government funding, education initiatives, STEM careers, coding in schools, technology education, hands-on STEM activities, computational thinking, innovation in education, robotics in schools, digital economy, youth technology programs, programming languages for kids, Micro Bit, Scratch programming, early STEM education, tech skills for students
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In 2018, the provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador made a significant investment in STEM education. It allocated $400,000 in funding to enhance computer coding and STEM-related programs in schools. This initiative aimed to prepare students for future careers in technology and innovation.
Funding Breakdown and Purpose
The funding was divided into two parts:
- Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation Department: Contributed $250,000 to Brilliant Labs, a non-profit organization. This funding supported hands-on STEM activities for students.
- Education and Early Childhood Development Department: Allocated $150,000 to improve school resources. The funds also provided two mobile teaching positions to assist Brilliant Labs in teaching coding.
Who Are Brilliant Labs?
Brilliant Labs, based in New Brunswick, specializes in STEM and coding initiatives across Atlantic Canada. Although headquartered out of province, its Newfoundland and Labrador team ensured the program met local educational needs.
Coding: A New Essential Skill
At the announcement at Elizabeth Park Elementary School, Kendra MacDonald, chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Technology Industries, stressed the importance of coding.
“Technology and coding are as essential as English in today’s education system,” MacDonald explained. She highlighted the need for equitable access to coding programs across schools.
Early exposure to coding helps children imagine careers in technology. It also builds confidence by showing them what they can achieve with the right skills.
Real-Life Impact: Students in Action
During the event, students showcased their coding skills. Using tools like Micro Bit and the visual programming language Scratch, they demonstrated creativity and technical knowledge.
For instance, Grade 6 students Michael Cumby and Molly Powers created a step counter using Micro Bit. Grade 5 students Kevin Stuckless and Benjamin Foote programmed a story involving a magic cat and a dinosaur. Their excitement illustrated how hands-on activities make STEM engaging and fun.
Supporting Teachers and Building Skills
Brilliant Labs’ executive director, Jeff Willson, explained that the initiative also focused on training teachers. He emphasized the value of computational thinking, a step-by-step approach to solving problems with technology.
“Critical analytical thinking is vital for creating future innovators,” Willson stated. By empowering teachers, the program aims to foster a generation of creative problem solvers.
A “Nitro Boost” for Education
Education Minister Dale Kirby called the funding a “nitro boost” for coding education in the province.
“Watching young students engage with robots and computers shows how much education has evolved,” he said. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to preparing students for a digital economy.
Long-term Vision: Building a Skilled Workforce
This $400,000 investment is part of a larger $1 million funding pool for coding education. The initiative aligns with provincial and national strategies to develop a tech-ready workforce.
Hands-on STEM education not only equips students with technical skills but also fosters creativity and critical thinking. Programs like this ensure that youth are ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world while contributing to the province’s innovation economy.
Sources:
- CBC News, Original Article
- Brilliant Labs, About Us
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, STEM Education Initiatives
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About the Author: Bernard Aybout (Virii8)
