The Learning Jet

The Learning Jet

The Learning Jet is about kids, the community, and the “WOW” factor. Getting our youth and people in the community excited about learning; more specifically, learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).  Starting with a “WOW” is the best way to engage in the learning process. 

FedEx has generously donated a Boeing 727-200 to the Minnesota Association of Women in Aviation (MnAWA) to create a classroom for K-12 students and community organizations.  FedEx named the B-727 Timothy and after 20 years of service with FedEx, Timothy landed at St. Paul’s Downtown Holman field on July 31st, 2013.  Timothy has been going through renovations ever since; the interior has been turned from a dark, grey-green, cargo hold into an amazing bright, light, modern classroom.  It is truly “jaw dropping” to walk into this classroom.  This unique learning environment gives students the opportunity to walk up to a large aircraft and touch the  landing gear, stick their head up into the wheel well, sit in the captain’s seat, move the throttles, trim the stabilizer, read the altimeter and heading indicator, and so much more! This unique learning environment is a “one of a kind” in the U.S. so every step in the process of converting this aircraft into a classroom has been an adventure!  A group of dedicated volunteers were truly “heaven sent” and have come together to donate countless hours of time and energy to make this vision a reality.

The Learning Jet curriculum is built around the concept of developing a students’ proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The curriculum incorporates STEM throughout a multi-modal transportation theme:  aerospace, railway, waterways, bike/pedestrian, highway, freight.  This is a reflection of today’s transportation system that generally relies on multi-modal transportation to move people and goods.  This curriculum will make students of the Learning Jet aware of this system and connect STEM concepts to real-world applications in multi-modal transportation.

The curriculum is designed to enhance student’s capabilities as problem solvers and team players through hands-on learning.  Creating an interest and awareness in STEM through a hands-on learning experience will hopefully give students the inspiration and confidence to consider a career in a STEM field.  Career information for the various transportation modes will be included in the curriculum to encourage students in these fields.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, only 16% of American high school seniors are proficient in mathematics and interested in STEM-related careers.  In order to get students interested we have to engage them early. There is no better way to do that than inside the Learning Jet, a local destination that can provide students with hands-on experiences.  

A field trip to the Learning Jet would offer students:

-  STEM education – Our programs include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics standards so that students of all ages can learn necessary skills needed later in life.

-  Exposure to hands-on activities – Students learn differently and hands-on experiences make learning fun.

Our next step is to fit the Learning Jet with simulators loaded with software to enhance the multi-modal experience.  Your donation will make this possible for all students in Minnesota - It's all about the Kids!

Visit our website:   www.thelearningjet.org