Gaming Research Integration for Learning
Laboratory® (GRILL®)
Frequently Asked Questions
DISTRIBUTION A: Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. Approval given by 88 ABW/PA, 88ABW-201X-0309, 28
Jan 2015.
1. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do challenge problems correlate with educational standards such as the Common Core
State Standards (CCSS) and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)?
Although specific content standards may be addressed through these challenge problems, the
challenges directly focus on the essential processes and practices outlined by the Mathematics
CCSS and NGSS that should be developed in students at all levels. Keep in mind that these
practices intentionally overlap and are interconnected—thus, most are fundamentally a part of
all of the challenge problems. The standards section of this document provides a list of
standards, for more complete descriptions, please see the accompanying links. Additionally, the
challenge problems inherently encompass the English language arts (ELA) CCSS, especially those
outlined in Literacy of Science & Technical Subjects (http://www.corestandards.org/ELALiteracy).
How do I implement challenge problems in my school?
You can implement Full Throttle STEM® in your school in a number of ways. The following are
several suggestions:
 As a STEM class: The challenge problems outlined in Full Throttle STEM® could easily be
incorporated into a semester or year-long STEM class.
 After school programs or clubs: Depending on time and resource constraints, after school
programs are a valid option for encouraging student interest in the content.
 Integrated in core classes: You can integrate challenge problems or their components into
lessons in core classes such as math, science, and art. For example, Challenge Problem #1
entails modeling an Eldora Speedway track. This would require students to be effective at
interpreting measurements and diagrams and working with proportions.
 As units: In all cases listed above, you could use any of the challenge problems as units to
incorporate particular skills or processes. This option is also ideal for schools or teachers
that want to “test-drive” Full Throttle STEM®.
If I were to integrate challenge problems into a class or lessons, how would I grade it?
Grading will be specific to each teacher’s situation; however, there are many opportunities for
formative and summative assessment. When designing a grading scheme, consider the
Philosophy of Challenge Problems, CCSS and NGSS practices, acquired skills, and the
collaborative nature of the work. Requiring students to keep a daily logbook is an excellent way
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for both students and teachers to track the problems and accomplishments achieved over the
course of the challenges.
I have absolutely no experience with RC cars, modeling, software, etc. How do I teach my
students any of this?
You don’t. This content was designed was designed to be completely student-centered,
problem-solving based learning, which is why there is purposely no curriculum and somewhat
open-ended challenge problems. To help guide teachers, we have provided examples of
software and equipment to use because the Full Throttle STEM® team has done a lot of
research to find free or inexpensive resources that do not sacrifice quality. Additionally, with
each of the challenge problems, we have provided a list of example resources, including
tutorials written specifically for the challenges and links to helpful websites and video tutorials.
Ideally, and consistent with the Philosophy of Challenge Problems, the teacher will use these
resources to foster the learning and problem-solving processes of the students. However, if
time is an extremely limiting factor, selected resources can be directly given to the students. All
resources can be found at http://gamingresearchintegrationforlearninglab.com/GRILL/
Whom do I contact if my students or I need technical support?
The GRILL can provide technical support via phone, email, or an on-site visit.
Point of Contact:
Mrs. Kimberly Puckett (Educator, Author), Tri-Village Local School District
315 S Main Street, New Madison, OH 45346
kim_puckett@darke.k12.oh.us
Dr. Winston “Wink” Bennett (Program Manager), 711th Human Performance Wing
2620 Q Street, Bldg. 852
Wright Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7955
Winston.bennett@wpafb.af.mil
How much does this cost and how can I get funding?
The costs associated with Full Throttle STEM® really depend on the challenge problem. The Full
Throttle STEM® team has tried to keep your costs to a minimum by highlighting the free or
open-source software and hardware that is available. You can reuse most other hardware and
equipment used in the challenge problems. We estimate the cost of all of the challenge
problems range from free to well-below $500. Below are examples of resources to help
mitigate costs:
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Many grant opportunities exist for educational, especially STEM, support. Please see
http://www.stemfinity.com/STEM-Education-Grants for a list of examples.
If you are a Race to the Top (RttT) school talk to your administration about possible STEM
funding.
You may be able to obtain sponsor support for STEM initiatives, such as Full Throttle STEM®,
through community businesses and industries.
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