MINT research laboratory – Welcome&Stay@THM

THM makes school

"I already know THM from school!" If prospective students can say that, they may have experimented in THM's mobile lab, which visited their school during middle school. Or perhaps they visited the campus directly with their class. Inspiring female students for subjects like computer science, mathematics, natural sciences, and technology, reducing any apprehension or prejudice they may have, and showing them the option of studying at THM early on – these are the goals of this new project. Because fostering young talent can never start too early. Within the framework of the STEM research lab, THM is expanding its opportunities for inquiry-based learning for female students and establishing these opportunities for long-term success.

As part of the project, the THM laboratories are being assessed for their suitability for student projects in middle school (grades 5-10), and teaching and learning concepts are being developed in collaboration with the relevant departments. Based on a needs analysis, appropriate programs are being created for schools in the region. In close cooperation with the existing makerspaces in Gießen and Friedberg, their programs will be opened up and expanded to meet the specific needs of the target groups.

A particular focus is placed on reaching girls. Because of stereotypical role models conveyed in the media, toys, and, not least, within the family, many female students believe they will be less successful in mathematics and technology and, even when their performance is equal, underestimate their STEM abilities compared to boys. The project aims to foster their interest in scientific and technical subjects and their confidence in their own abilities – and to specifically inspire female students to pursue STEM disciplines (for example, through special STEM clubs for girls, the use of role models, and deliberate use of visual language).

The pupils in the STEM research laboratory are accompanied by didactically trained student tutors from THM – who thereby learn to impart knowledge and expand their skills.