Program Goals
"In the spirit of inquiry and discovery embodied by Benjamin Franklin, the mission of The Franklin Institute is to inspire a passion for learning about science and technology."
Wednesdays@TFI is free from the tyranny of standardized tests, and there is no specific content that absolutely must be covered, which means we can focus on:
Wednesdays@TFI is free from the tyranny of standardized tests, and there is no specific content that absolutely must be covered, which means we can focus on:
- Sharing the most exciting aspects of STEM, including its wonders and applications, to inspire a passion for learning.
- Process over content (i.e. critical thinking and problem-solving over content areas like biology or physics.)
Core Values
The core values of the Wednesdays@TFI program are carried over from SLA:
- Inquiry: Students ask themselves/each other questions that will allow them to fully understand their topic.
- Research: Students conduct research using credible sources, creating their own analyses and interpretations.
- Collaboration: Students collaborate with classmates and community members to learn important soft skills.
- Presentation: Students communicate their ideas through effective speaking and carefully designed presentations.
- Reflection: Students reflect on their work, both successes and failures, and see what they can do to improve.