Turkish children to take engineering courses

Engineering for Kids (EFK), a U.S.-based program offering engineering lessons for kids to improve their cognitive and mental development, will open its first branch in Turkey. With 150 branches located around the world, the program combines standard academic concepts with real-life problems and encourages children to solve problems by using science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The program's Turkey branch will offer six-week courses starting in October.

Since 2009, Engineering for Kids has reached thousands of children. The program regards children as natural engineers and contributes to their cognitive and mental development. Offering applied courses in construction, space and aviation, electricity, chemistry, industry and mechanical engineering, the EFK guides children to learn through application and find answers to the question of "why" through scientific methods. With its special programs for children of different ages, the EFK not only leads children to engineering but also improves their analytical thinking and dexterity.

The STEM method encourages children to use science, technology, engineering and mathematics when problem solving. With this method, they enrich their basic knowledge and can make connections between school, society and real-life problems. Instead of the teacher-centered classes, the EFK adopts the STEM method, allowing children to learn by solving problems and discovering new things through conducting more independent research. They both learn and entertain themselves while carrying out scientific experiments.

The EFK offers courses at three different levels. They have courses for different age groups. Children aged between 4 and 6 are included in the Junior Engineers program, while those aged from 7 to 11 are placed in the Apprentice Engineers program. Teens aged from 12 to 14 can attend the Master Engineers program.