SOE Outreach
The School of Education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is committed to making a positive impact beyond the university through meaningful partnerships, community engagement, and outreach initiatives. From collaborating with local schools and community organizations to supporting educational opportunities, professional development, and programs that serve communities throughout the region and beyond, the School works to strengthen connections between the university and the people it serves. Explore stories highlighting the School of Education's involvement, contributions, and ongoing efforts to make a difference in our communities.
Middle School Students Explore Game Design and Creativity at SIU
Approximately 25 middle school students from Anna, Illinois, visited Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 for a hands-on day of creativity, exploration and learning hosted by the School of Education's Imagination Lab and the SIU Art and Design program.
Accompanied by Mr. Shearer, this year's Golden Apple Teacher of the Year and a graduate of the School of Education's Master of Science in Education (MSEd) program, students began their visit at the Imagination Lab in Wham Hall. There, they were introduced to the fundamentals of board game design, explored and played with different game mechanics, and used Tinkercad to create 3D-designed game pieces.
The group continued its visit in Pulliam Hall with the Art and Design program, where students explored tools, materials and techniques used in product design. They also learned how these creative approaches connect to a variety of professions and academic programs offered at SIU.
The collaborative experience provided students with an opportunity to explore creativity, experiment with design and discover how their interests can connect to future educational and career opportunities.
