Explore Interactive technology bringing collaborative STEM learning to pandemic-isolated students

Amanda ThompsonAbout

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – A Purdue University startup is turning game play into serious learning for elementary students away from classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Full press release here)

Explore Interactive markets an augmented reality platform to help students learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

“Our newest product, MindLabs, extends the foundational Explore platform to allow kids to collaborate remotely on engineering and design of circuits,” said Amanda Thompson, CEO of Explore Interactive.

Explore Interactive has worked with educators and elementary students from across the U.S. in the development of the MindLabs platform, which lets children work together to solve hands-on STEM challenges and conduct open-ended design and play.

Now, the founders of the startup have partnered with the Museum of Science, Boston; and Homewood Science Center, located near Chicago, to host a virtual STEM camp. 

“There is no better time to empower racially and ethnically diverse children to see themselves as scientists,” said Heather Gunsallus, vice president of STEM education at the Museum of Science, Boston. “The team at the Museum of Science, Boston, is thrilled to support the vital work of Purdue, Explore Interactive and Homewood Science Center with the students in Chicago’s Southland.”