New update to HCC’s Challenger Learning Center

Posted on September 21, 2023
The Challenger Learning Center joined with the McLean County Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday to cut the ribbon on the newly remodeled Command Center, formerly the Briefing Room. (Photo courtesy Heartland Community College)

By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – Heartland Community College has unveiled a new look for its Challenger Learning Center (CLC).

The CLC joined with the McLean County Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday to cut the ribbon on the newly remodeled Command Center, formerly the Briefing Room. The renovation project took place over the summer.

The Challenger Learning Center’s primary mission is to foster STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) engagement among students through immersive, hands-on exploration and discovery opportunities.

According to Heartland, the Command Center will play a pivotal role in having students direct their classmates within the space station simulator to complete NASA inspired missions, facilitating communication and teamwork.

“Our new Command Center will not only empower students to immerse themselves in transformative STEM education, but also serve as a dynamic space for our summer open enrollment programs, fostering creativity, collaboration, and new learning opportunities,” said CLC director Dr. Julia Ossler.

Key features of the new Command Center include: upgraded computers and hardware equipped with the latest cloud-based software from Challenger Center, student-friendly seating designed to create a conducive learning environment, an array of wall-mounted TVs and screens, and updated audio systems.

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