The organization's mission is to inspire and educate students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through hands-on, immersive learning experiences that simulate space missions.
Challenger Learning Centers give students the chance to become astronauts and engineers and solve real-world problems as they participate in missions through the Solar System. Using space simulation and role-playing strategies, students bring their classroom studies to life.
Challenger Center was established in the aftermath of the Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986, when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded during its launch, killing all seven crew members. The families of the crew members, including Christa McAuliffe, who was a teacher and the first private citizen selected to fly in space, founded the organization as a living tribute to the crew and to continue their commitment to education. Their goal was to create a living memorial for the crew and to inspire future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields.
The first Challenger Learning Center opened in Houston, Texas, in 1988. Since then, the organization has grown to include over 30 Challenger Learning Centers across the United States, Canada, and several other countries. In addition to the centers, Challenger Center also offers educational programs for schools and teachers, as well as online resources for students.
Missions and Programs
Challenger Center's programs are designed to engage students in immersive learning experiences that simulate space missions. These experiences incorporate STEM education concepts, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. Programs are designed for students in grades K-12, as well as for college and adult learners.
Challenger Center's flagship program is the Challenger Learning Center Mission Simulation, a two-hour simulated space mission that places students in roles such as mission commander, navigator, medical officer, and engineer. Students work together to complete a space mission, solve problems, and overcome challenges. The mission simulations are supported by curriculum resources and professional development for educators.
Challenger Center also offers e-Mission simulations, which allow students to participate in space missions virtually, using video conferencing and online resources. In addition, the organization provides teacher professional development programs, student summer camps, and community outreach initiatives.
Impact
Since its founding, Challenger Center has impacted more than 6 million students and 250,000 educators worldwide. The organization's immersive learning experiences have been shown to increase students' interest in STEM subjects and improve their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Challenger Center has also received numerous awards and accolades for its work in STEM education. In 2017, the organization received the National Science Board's Public Service Award[1] in recognition of its contributions to STEM education and has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a model for science education.[2]
Challenger Center is governed by a board of directors, which includes family members of the Challenger crew and business leaders. The organization is funded through a combination of private donations, corporate partnerships, and grants from government agencies.
