Game On: Reimagining Science and Mathematics Education in a Playground of Innovation

Field trips are often remembered for fun, but they can also spark authentic STEM learning when carefully designed. This article shares how mathematics and science education faculty collaborated with preservice and in-service teachers to develop over 30 field trip activities for a local family fun center. The attractions, including an arcade, go-karts, bowling, laser tag, putt-putt, a drop tower, a carousel, and an indoor roller coaster, were reimagined as opportunities for students to explore physical science, geometry, and other mathematical concepts. The family entertainment center provided a personal tour of its facilities, allowing educators and college students to discuss their observations in mathematics and science for each attraction. In this article, we share our collaborative process, describe sample activities, explain the benefits for all partners, and offer practical recommendations for those seeking to get their GAME ON within their schools and communities.