A virtual learning platform for improving STEM education

A Virtual Project-Based Learning Sandbox for Mimetics and Medically Inspired Classroom Engineering (MiMICRE)

NIH-funded research Parametric Studio, INC. · NIH-10907568

This study is creating a fun, game-based learning platform called MiMICRE to help high school and early college students, especially those from under-represented backgrounds, get excited about STEM subjects and develop important problem-solving skills for future careers in health science.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionParametric Studio, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ames, United States)
Project IDNIH-10907568 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a game-based project learning platform called MiMICRE, aimed at enhancing STEM education for high school and early collegiate students, particularly those from under-represented groups. The platform will incorporate collaborative game-based learning experiences to engage students and improve their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. By connecting educational content with industry tools, the project seeks to address the challenges in STEM recruitment and retention exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative aims to inspire and prepare a diverse future workforce in health science STEM fields.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are high school and early collegiate students, especially those from under-represented backgrounds in STEM fields.

Not a fit: Students who are not interested in STEM subjects or who are not enrolled in high school or early collegiate programs may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve STEM education outcomes and workforce readiness for under-represented students.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that collaborative and game-based learning approaches can effectively enhance STEM education outcomes, making this a promising area of exploration.

Where this research is happening

Ames, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.