Limitless Learning: A Journey into Space Education with Kaci Heins

ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged

In this podcast episode, Kaci Heins, Executive Director at Limitless Space, joins Dave to discuss exciting projects and initiatives in the field of space education. They discuss topics such as the Space Exploration Educator Conference and the potential integration of data into art. The conversation explores the profound impact of space experiences on individuals, as exemplified by William Shatner's emotional reflections after his space trip. They also delve into the significance of using sensors in art and share anecdotes about Cloudflare's unique approach to cryptography using lava lamps. They also touch on the challenges faced by teachers and the importance of fostering a supportive community, highlighting the efforts of the Limitless Space Institute and PocketLab in advancing space education.

Additionally, Kaci and Dave talk about their experiences with PocketLab sensors that enhance students' engagement with science. Kaci shares her positive experience using PocketLab in the classroom, noting its user-friendly interface and seamless integration into lessons. They emphasize the importance of providing teachers with resources that are easy to implement, sparking students' curiosity in science. Kaci expresses her enthusiasm for inspiring educators and students alike, contributing to a growing community of science enthusiasts. Throughout the episode, they reflect a passion for space education, innovative teaching tools, and collaborative efforts dedicated to making science accessible and exciting for learners around the world.

https://www.limitlessspace.org/

Kaci Heins Twitter: https://twitter.com/spacespartan

ABOUT KACI

Kaci Heins serves as the Executive Director and was the former Director of Education at the Limitless Space Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and educating the upcoming generation about space exploration. With over 20 years in the education sector, her primary focus has been on STEM education intertwined with space exploration concepts.

Throughout her career, Kaci has partaken in a plethora of immersive STEM and space learning experiences that have profoundly shaped her perspective on space exploration. These include participating in two Zero-G flights carrying student experiments, overseeing two student experiments that launched to the International Space Station, and coordinating over ten high-altitude balloon launches, which transported student experiments to the stratosphere.

Deeply rooted in her beliefs, Kaci sees space exploration as an impactful learning tool for both students and educators in the realm of STEM education. She harbors a deep-seated passion for professional development within the STEM education community, particularly through the lens of space exploration. She believes that the foundation of inspiring the future STEM workforce and space explorers lies in nurturing educators who are fervent, well-informed, and confident in their teachings. According to Kaci, the journey of cultivating the next wave of innovators is heavily anchored in providing students with hands-on experiences tied directly to real-world scientific phenomena. She often asserts that the true ignition of a student’s passion and curiosity can only be achieved when educators themselves are equipped with the right knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm.

Kaci obtained her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Secondary Education from Southeast Missouri State University. She has received numerous awards for her work, including the Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award, the AIAA Educator Achievement Award, the ISS National Lab Exceptional Educator Award, and the Air Force Association’s National Teacher of the Year Award.