Their goal is to successfully plot a course to rendezvous with a comet and launch a probe to collect scientific data. What may seem to be a routine exploration is sprinkled with lots of surprises and emergencies that will give students first-hand experience with teamwork and problem solving. Rendezvous with a Comet will be the first scenario presented to sixth grade students when the Challenger Learning Center opens in early summer of 2002. Teachers will receive in-service training and then work with their students for several weeks before bringing them to the Learning Center for a simulated space flight. Edventures in Simulation Teachers can be trained in a one-day seminar to use simulation in their classroom in any subject and any grade.
Simulation is the single-most effective way to learn in lieu of engaging in the real experience.
Students develop skills in teamwork, cooperation, written and oral communication, critical thinking, and responsible decision-making. PEPers will be part of the only company in the world to design and offer excursions to visit places throughout the Solar System. PEPers become space savvy and complete work in Solar System Basics, Planetary Features, and Planetary Excursions. Science, math and language arts are emphasized extensively. Mars City Alpha Students in year 2043 are the first inhabitants on Mars and they must work together to create a colony.