In partnership with Total Learning Research Institute (TLRI), PLM is creating online lessons using a Mars-based scenario to investigate potential challenges NASA will face in establishing a robotic or human presence on Mars. Mars City—Balloon Physics Challenge is funded by NASA and involves the development of educational activities for high school math, physics, and engineering students. A major portion of the program focuses on integration of social media technologies, such as iPods and iPads. Schools in Wheeling, WV, Beaumont, TX, and Washington, D.C. serve as pilot test sites.

Kerry Joels, TLRI, principal investigator

Frank Withrow, TLRI, co-investigator

Jeanne Finstein, PLM, technical development lead, education consultant

John Baro, PLM, software interface design, programming

Robert R. Sellers, PLM, science content lead

Lynn Bondurant, TLRI, science content lead

Rhonda S. Baro, PLM, graphic design, 3D modeling

Amy Bordeaux, TLRI, evaluation lead

Mars City—Balloon Physics Challenge™
Copyright © 2011
Total Learning Research Institute, Inc.™
All rights reserved.