News
Why STEAM Education Is Becoming Essential in the Age of AI
Technology is changing fast. Tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) can now write, draw, code, and even help make decisions. As this happens, the skills people need to succeed are changing too. That’s where STEAM (science, technology, engineering, math, AND...
Featured in the Joplin Globe – Schroeder Family Exploreum to be Artemis II launch party site
The Schroeder Family Exploreum in Joplin has partnered with NASA for an event tied to the upcoming Artemis II mission. The Exploreum also is looking to its own spring launch. Neely Myers, Exploreum executive director, said it applied to NASA to become the local NASA...
Beep bop boop—there’s a new face at the science center, and it needs a name.
The Schroeder Family Exploreum is proud to introduce its brand-new robot mascot, a friendly and curious character designed to spark imagination, inspire discovery, and bring STEAM learning to life for visitors of all ages. To mark the occasion, the organization is...
The Universe Just Got a New Map — And It’s Bigger Than We Thought
Imagine trying to map a forest at night. Previously we could only see the brightest campfires. Now we can see the entire forest.
Could Humans Really Live on Mars?
The short answer is… possibly, but it would be extremely difficult.
Art in Engineering: The Hidden Gear of Innovation
Innovation doesn’t happen in a vacuum of logic.
Groundhog Day: The Only Holiday Where We Trust a Rodent Meteorologist
Every year on February 2nd, millions of people wake up and ask the same, deeply serious question: Did a groundhog see his shadow? And honestly...We're okay with that. Groundhog Day is the one holiday that fully commits to chaos. No gifts. No fireworks. Just a small,...
Finding Your Passion When You’re Young: The Sky’s the Limit
When you’re young, one of the questions you hear the most is: “What do you want to do with your life?”It’s a big question—sometimes an overwhelming one. Many young people feel pressure to have everything figured out early, but the truth is that passion isn’t always...
Why Volunteer with the Exploreum in 2026?
Looking for a fun way to give back, learn something new, and make a real impact? Volunteering with the Exploreum in 2026 puts you right in the middle of hands-on science, creativity, and discovery. As a volunteer, you’ll help visitors explore interactive exhibits,...
Why STEAM is Important for Adults
At the Exploreum we believe that STEAM—science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics—isn’t just for kids. Learning and creativity don’t have an age limit. For adults, exploring STEAM concepts can spark curiosity, improve problem-solving, and encourage...
You Can’t Be What You Can’t See: Why Continued Donor Support Matters
When young people see themselves represented in the faces of the scientists, engineers, artists, and innovators of the supporting organizations of the Exploreum, they realize that they too belong in those roles.
How STEAM Sparks Collaboration and Teamwork
At the Exploreum we see all the time how STEAM activities naturally encourage collaboration. Science, technology, engineering, art, and math often involve projects too big to tackle alone. When children, teens, and adults work side by side, they discover the value of...
Outdoor STEAM: Learning in Nature
Nature offers endless opportunities for children to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) in ways that are fun, hands-on, and memorable.
Learning Through Play: Why Challenges Build Problem-Solving Skills
At the Exploreum, we know that play is more than just fun—it’s an essential part of learning. When kids and teens (and even adults) engage in games and challenges, they’re doing more than entertaining themselves. They’re practicing critical thinking, developing...
From Curiosity to Career: Connecting Our Community Through STEAM
By introducing youth across our region to STEAM learning, we’re preparing them to thrive in a world driven by innovation.
How Families Can Explore STEAM Learning at Home
At the Schroeder Family Exploreum, we believe that curiosity doesn’t have to stop when you leave our events. Science, technology, engineering, art, and math can come alive in everyday activities right at home. With a few common materials and a little creativity,...
The Backbone of STEAM: Why Mathematics Holds It All Together
Math is what gives form and balance to the entire system, the quiet force that keeps everything standing.
So… Why the Arts?
Honestly? That one little letter changes everything.
The “E” in STEAM: The Essential Role of Engineering in Learning
While science explains how the world works and technology builds new tools, engineering is what turns ideas into reality.
The “T” in STEAM: Technology as a Catalyst for Innovation in Education
While we typically think of technology as devices and machines, it extends beyond that, encompassing the application of knowledge to create tools, systems, and processes that solve problems and enhance human capabilities.
The “S” in STEAM: The Power of Science in Learning
At the very heart of the STEAM framework lies the “S” – Science, a discipline that builds the foundation for curiosity, discovery, and problem-solving.
Registration is OPEN for the 14th annual Joplin Turkey Trot!
Registration is OPEN for the 14th annual Joplin Turkey Trot!
Why is STEAM Learning Important?
Hands-on STEAM learning—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—has become essential in preparing students for the modern world.
What is STEAM?
STEAM is an interdisciplinary approach that combines science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to prepare students for the future.