​​​​​​Direct to Discovery: Delivering opportunities for authentic STEM discovery directly to Georgia's K12 classrooms 

Direct to Discovery delivers the subject matter STEM expertise of Georgia Tech (GT) directly to Georgia's K12 classrooms through virtual learning experiences focused on STEM inquiry and design. Direct to Discovery enables students to interact with world-class scientists and engineers, engage in real-world STEM, and even use Georgia Tech facilities through partnerships with various units across the Georgia Tech community, including the GT Observatory and the GT Robotarium.

Upcoming Direct to Discovery Sessions

Use the Filter function to identify sessions relevant to your grade levels or subject areas of interest. A calendar view is available here.

About Direct to Discovery

Direct to Discovery is a free program for the K12 community. Created with the goal of connecting Georgia's K12 classrooms with Georgia Tech's STEM expertise, Direct to Discovery includes a variety of programming to meet the needs of our state's diverse K12 schools and communities. All programming and resources are designed and developed using the Georgia Standards of Excellence alongside cutting edge STEM research and development. We offer a schedule of programs for students and classrooms year-round. We are also able to explore customized scheduling for schools and districts with discussion.

What are the sessions like?

Session formats depend on the Direct to Discovery series. Specifics about each session are communicated to participants, alongside resources that may be used before, during, or after a Direct to Discovery session. Technology requirements for students are noted in each of the session descriptions.

Working on STEM (re)certification?

Engage your students in authentic STEM with Direct to Discovery. Extended programming, such as Direct to Discovery Design Challenges, offer an opportunity for deeper STEM experiences with expert guidance from GT/GTRI faculty. Other series provide opportunity for authentic STEM learning, with accompanying classroom resources extending the learning beyond the single session. 

Searching for authentic phenomena and scenarios to drive STEM learning?

Each Direct to Discovery is situated within the real research and engineering of Georgia Tech/GTRI. GSE-alignment drives our planning and classroom resource development. We aim for an experience that is seamless from the daily learning and doing of classrooms.

Attempting Project-Based Learning, but not sure where or how to find external experts?

Look out for Direct to Discovery Design Challenges, or use of the many other opportunities as a launch pad for your own project. Accompanying classroom resources provide access to the disciplinary knowledge of the topic at-hand. Lastly, participating in the sessions allows you and your students the rare opportunity ask global leaders in STEM fields questions - you'll receive answers during our live, interactive Direct to Discovery sessions.

Want to expose your students to real-life STEM and diverse STEM role models?

Working in STEM is rarely how students imagine it - and we want to make sure every student in Georgia has the opportunity to feel like they are capable and welcome in STEM. Our researchers share more than just their knowledge during these sessions. They'll tell stories, share experiences, and give a unique glimpse into what it's like to be a STEM professional.

STEM@GTRI: