GoSciTech Course Descriptions & Course Schedules

Exciting Courses, Top Notch Professors and an amazing staff!

Check out all of the courses for Summer 2023!

Applications open March 1, 2023.

Week 1: June 11-16

1A. Pre-Med: Anatomy & Physiology Dr. Jia Fei 8 & 9 $830
1B. Anthropology: The Study of Us Dr. Kiley Molinari 8, 9, & 10 $830
1C. Astrophysics Dr. Patrick Briggs 8, 9, & 10 $830
1D. Augmented and Virtual Reality Dr. Kemper Talley & Mrs. Aliceann Talley 8, 9, & 10 $830
1E. Cleaning the Environment Dr. Gita Mohanty 8, 9, & 10 $830
1F. Programming the Web Mr. Travis Dalton 8, 9, & 10 $830
1G. Codes & Cryptography Dr. Gary Salazar 8, 9, & 10 $830
1H. Go for Launch! Dr. Anders Gardestig 8, 9, & 10 $830
1I. Psychology: The Science of People Ms. Bethany Spencer 8, 9, & 10 $830
1J. Science and the Law Mrs. Charlotte Lomnicki 8, 9, & 10 $830
1K. Pre-Med: Genetics Dr. Janay Vacharasin 9 & 10 $830

Week 2: June 18-23

2A. Pre-Med: Anatomy & Physiology Dr. Jim Wetzel 8 & 9 $830
2B. Saving the Oceans Dr. Blaine Griffen 8 & 9 $830
2C. Astrophysics Dr. Patrick Briggs 8, 9, & 10 $830
2D. Photography: Where Art and Science Converge Mrs. Julie Mixon 8, 9, & 10 $830
2E. Build Your Own Computer Mr. Travis Dalton 8, 9, & 10 $1180
2F. Game Design Mr. Taylor Belcher 8, 9, & 10 $830
2G. Neuropsychology and Human Development Ms. Bethany Spencer 8, 9, & 10 $830
2H. Arduino Robotics: Build, Program, Compete Dr. Dave Eslinger 9 & 10 $950
2I. Don't Try This at Home! Dr. Zachary Davis 9 & 10 $830
2J. Pre-Med: Genetics Dr. Janay Vacharasin 9 & 10 $830

Week 3: June 25-30

3A. Pre-Med: Anatomy & Physiology Dr. Jia Fei 8 & 9 $830
3B. Marine Biology of the SC Shores Dr. Blaine Griffen 8 & 9 $830
3C. Cleaning the Environment Dr. Gita Mohanty 8, 9, & 10 $830
3D. Destination SPACE Dr. DeWayne Cecil & Prof. Bob Twiggs 8, 9, & 10 $1030
3E. Engineering a Better Tomorrow Dr. Rahul Renu 8, 9, & 10 $830
3F. Everyday Chemistry Dr. Enoch Adogla 8, 9, & 10 $830
3G. Photography: Where Art and Science Converge Mrs. Julie Mixon 8, 9, & 10 $830
3H. Arduino Robotics: Build, Program, Compete Dr. Dave Eslinger 9 & 10 $950
3I. The Search for Life Out There: Astrobiology and Planetary Exploration Dr. Patricia Craig 9 & 10 $830

Summer Camps

Anthropology: The Study of Us

Why do humans look the way we do? How can a forensic anthropologist identify a person using only their skeletal remains? Are you curious about foods, languages, music, religions, clothing, and games from different cultures around the world? If so, this class is right for you! You will gain introductory knowledge in the field of anthropology as we investigate its four subfields: cultural, linguistic, archaeological, and biological. We will take a close look at archaeological and biological anthropology by surveying outdoor sites, examining real archaeologists’ tools, and even studying 3D models of human skulls to look at evolution!
Instructor: Dr. Kiley Molinari
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Image of skeletons on a table.

Arduino Robotics: Build, Program, Compete

Have you ever wanted to build and program your own robot? What is the difference between a two-wheel differential and a three-wheel holonomic drive system? Using an Arduino Mega-compatible micro-controller, you will learn the basics of programming in C/C++ while working with electronic components. We will learn about different robotics concepts, construction techniques, and sensors to control the robot’s movement. By participating in competitions, you will be able to share knowledge with your classmates. And the best part? Your robot and sensors will go home with you!
Instructor: Dr. Dave Eslinger
Grade Level: Rising 9th & 10th

Astrophysics

Where do black holes come from? How do stars change over time? What really happened in the Big Bang? Using experiments and physical theories, we will develop a better understanding of stars, galaxies and the universe. You will collect data and use mathematical models to understand the laws governing our solar system and the stars and galaxies beyond. Our work will include investigations into spectroscopy, the measurement and classification of stars, the origin of black holes, the diversity of galaxies, and the Big Bang itself.
Instructor: Dr. Patrick Briggs
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Image of student looking through spectroscope.

Augmented and Virtual Reality

How can we see the unseen? What do your favorite mobile games have to do with science? New and emerging technologies allow us to experience virtual objects and representations of the real world through augmented reality. Popular cell phone applications, like Pokémon Go, and virtual reality headsets are becoming more common as the real world and virtual world collide. Learn the basics of visualization as we use augmented and virtual reality to focus on scientific data and models that impact our daily lives. You will get hands-on experience viewing, building, and manipulating virtual objects as you gain a better understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics.
Instructor: Dr. Kemper Talley & Mrs. Aliceann Talley
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Build Your Own Computer

Just what goes into making a computer? And how do they work? How can networks and information technology (IT) be used for game design or cryptocurrency mining? You will build a personal computer that you get to take home and discuss these topics and more! Learn web design using HTML, programming in CSS and JavaScript, the basics of cybersecurity, and explore the Internet of Things. Through hands-on projects, you will understand the different computing disciplines and develop introductory skills that could lead to a career in IT.
The class price includes the purchasing of a take-home computer kit.
Instructor: Mr. Travis Dalton
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Cleaning the Environment

Have you ever wondered what happens when there is a massive oil spill in the middle of the ocean? What is the impact on the marine environment, beaches, and humans? How are toxic chemicals cleaned up from the environment and who does it? Bioremediation is an environmentally friendly technology that uses microorganisms to remove pollutants from the environment. This interdisciplinary field connects environmental chemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, and environmental microbiology. We will explore how different microorganisms degrade various materials and the challenges bioremediation must overcome to be effective. Through case studies and hands-on experiments, you will investigate the background and future of bioremediation!
Instructor: Dr. Gita Mohanty
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Codes and Cryptography

Have you ever wanted to send a secret message to your friends? How can we keep private information secure? You will examine coding theory in relation to transmitting and communicating data accurately, cryptography techniques for security, public-key systems, and many common ciphers. As a class, we will investigate modern-day applications that involve error-correcting codes like those used in barcodes, CDs, financial transactions and digital television.
Instructor: Dr. Gary Salazar
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Destination SPACE

Have you always wanted to explore space? Join us in Destination SPACE to create your own robotic Rovers, weather satellites, and remote sensing stations to explore space. You will be introduced to weather, climatology, space weather, and satellite science and engineering. Students will build, test, and program their own mobile robotic Rovers and Weather Stations and then analyze and report the data they collect. Learn how families can launch their own Weather Station on a tethered weather balloon. Students are encouraged to visit the Destination SPACE, Inc. website for more information; https://www.destinationspace-stem.org/.
Instructor: Dr. L. DeWayne Cecil & Prof. Bob Twiggs
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Don't Try This at Home!

Do you ever think about why fireworks explode? Are you curious about expanding your chemistry knowledge? Or maybe you want to understand exactly how invisible ink works? Level up your chemistry skills in this advanced chemistry course and learn how to do all of the things that your science teachers refused to let you try in class. After a thorough discussion of safety, we will get our hands on the chemical reactions behind fireworks, explosives, illusions, stink bombs, and more. And remember, these experiments are for the lab—Don’t Try This at Home!
An introductory understanding of chemistry is helpful but not required. This course is highly recommended for students with some chemistry background.
Instructor: Dr. Zachary Davis
Grade Level: Rising 9th & 10th

Engineering a Better Tomorrow

What does social media have to do with engineering? Who decides what merchandise we can see and purchase in a store? People buy all sorts of products, and those products were all designed and engineered by someone. We will explore how engineering and data science influence the development of products while you gain experience with hands-on design-and-build challenges. You will develop creative ideas and analyze product reviews to help design innovative improvements for an existing product. This class is perfect for anyone with an interest in engineering and data analysis!
Instructor: Dr. Rahul Renu
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Everyday Chemistry

Do you love mixing stuff together to see what happens? What is happening when we use soap to wash our hands? We will investigate the chemistry of common materials used in our daily lives and perform hands-on experiments to study how they interact—and react—with each other! You will explore physical and chemical changes, separate the components of pen ink, and learn why some substances dissolve in water and others do not. You will even make golden alloys from pennies and synthesize colorful polymers.
Instructor: Dr. Enoch Adogla
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Game Design

Just how do video games work and how can you make your own? Learn the basics of video game design and development from level design and programming to art and music through interactive projects! We will create our original games with the PICO-8 fantasy console by building custom sprites, sounds, and objects. In this course, you will become familiar with object-oriented programming and basic video game development. And you’ll use the iterative design process to improve your game based on player feedback – just like real video game companies!

This class is designed for enthusiastic gamers and/or aspiring game designers with little to no computer programming experience.
Instructor: Mr. Taylor Belcher
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Go for Launch!

How do rockets work? What common materials can be turned into rocket fuel? Learn about the physics of propulsion as we explore the world of aerospace engineering. You will design, build, and launch a variety of rockets using matches, air, water, and other fuel sources. We will have a blast seeing things rocket into the atmosphere!
Instructor: Dr. Anders Gårdestig
Grade Level: Rising 8th & 9th

Marine Biology of South Carolina Shores

What does it take to survive in a saltwater environment? And what happens where the land meets the sea? In this class, you will investigate how life adapts to survive in the uniquely challenging environment of the ocean and coast. We will also learn about ongoing research on marine animals during our field trip to the South Carolina coastal marsh. This introductory class is perfect for students who love the ocean and the animals that live in it!
Instructor: Dr. Blaine Griffen
Grade Level: Rising 8th & 9th

Neuropsychology and Human Development

How do humans develop as we age? How do our brains change as we grow physically, socially, and emotionally? In this class, we will put on our "psychology glasses" to help us learn how people change from conception to death. You will also get to deepen your understand of these topics through your own individual research project!
Instructor: Ms. Bethany Spencer
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Photography: Where Art and Science Converge

Are you a creative scientist? Or a curious artist? Together, we will discover the “how” of photography by working with light-sensitive materials. You will combine historical photographic processes with modern digital techniques for one-of-a-kind prints. Whether you are an artist, scientist, or something in between, join us and learn how to make decisions that can transform your snapshots into memorable works of art.
Instructor: Mrs. Julie Mixon
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Pre-Med: Anatomy & Physiology

Have you ever thought of becoming a doctor? By participating in animal dissections, you will discover the anatomy of various structures and conduct experiments to understand the physiology of the body. We will also investigate what happens when things go wrong in the human body and result in disease. Through this hands-on introduction to anatomy and physiology, you will learn the basics that all doctors must master.
Instructor: Dr. Jim Wetzel, or Dr. Jia Fei - Depending on weeks.
Grade Level: Rising 8th & 9th

Pre-Med: Biomedical Genetics

Why do we look like our parents, but also different? What is DNA and how does it make us all similar and unique at the same time? DNA carries all of the information that determines the functions of our cells and how they respond to their environment. We will look at how DNA is studied in scientific laboratories and how genetic information can be used by medical doctors. You will learn what DNA looks like, how it is inherited by offspring, and what can happen when a change, called a mutation, occurs.
Instructor: Dr. Janay Vacarasin
Grade Level: Rising 9th & 10th

Psychology: The Science of People

What exactly do psychologists do? How do humans grow, develop, and learn? We will investigate each of the main topics in psychology, including learning and behavior, neuropsychology, sensation and perception, memory and cognition, development, and personality. You will gain an introductory understanding of the field of psychology with an emphasis on applied skills in clinical, social, and developmental psychology. And completing your own hands-on research project will further deepen your understanding!
Instructor: Ms. Bethany Spencer
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

Saving the Oceans

What do Earth’s oceans have to do with human survival? How does human activity affect the health of marine environments? Our oceans cover 70% of the planet, and it’s important that we understand the impact humans have on these systems. In this class, you will explore the major stresses and challenges facing marine ecosystems and the organisms that live there while investigating potential solutions. We will even take a field trip to the South Carolina coast to study how animals respond to changes in their habitat and how they can be indicators for the overall health of an ecosystem!
Instructor: Dr. Blaine Griffen
Grade Level: Rising 8th & 9th

Science and The Law

Do you have a love for science and an interest in the world of law? Explore the intersection of these topics, along with potential law careers for those with a scientific background. In this course, we will research ethical and legal controversies surrounding cutting-edge discoveries and medicine. You will act as a lawyer or witness in our interactive mock trial sessions, explore the evolving world of scientific evidence, and review patents to figure out how to protect your intellectual property!  We will focus on public speaking skills, basic trial procedures, the structure of the legal system, logical reasoning, and constitutional and technology law. If you have ever considered a law career, this introductory course is for you!
Instructor: Ms. Charlotte Lomnicki
Grade Level: Rising 8th, 9th, & 10th

The Search for Life Out There: Astrobiology & Planetary Exploration

Are we alone in the universe? Until recently, this fundamental question about our place in the cosmos was only explored through philosophical discussion or works of science fiction. The growing science of astrobiology seeks to turn science fiction into science research. By combining classroom learning and hands-on experimentation, we will explore three main research areas: the search for habitable planets elsewhere in the universe, the study of so-called "extremophiles" on Earth, and the search for habitable zones and life elsewhere in the solar system. Become an astrobiologist for a week and join us as we search for answers!
Instructor: Dr. Patricia Craig
Grade Level: Rising 9th & 10th