Fourth grade students explore future medical careers at Otto Fridia’s new innovation lab

(The HUB) – In Otto M. Fridia Elementary School’s innovation lab, fourth graders aren’t just playing pretend; they’re diagnosing patients, fitting casts and discovering medical careers. “We plan to use the lab as a part of our strategy to create an environment where curiosity drives the lesson,” Principal Christofor Stephens said. “Students will walk in excited and walk out talking about what they experienced. It gives them space to take risks, try new ideas, and see learning come alive in ways that are hands-on, joyful and meaningful.” Related Stories Through a partnership with United to Learn and STEMscapes Collab & Play Spaces, the lab invites students to take on roles such as surgeon, physical therapist, receptionist and clinic staff. Equipped with real casts, anatomy models, stationary bikes, exam tables, X-rays and medical supplies, it provides students with the opportunity to interact with, examine and explore the tools of the medical field. Students can also engage in collaborative problem-solving and communication exercises using custom lab coats, clipboards with scenarios, and a fully stocked receptionist area with phones, a cash register and time math manipulatives. The innovation lab also serves as an early bridge into the district’s Pathways in Technology learning model....