Pathfinders 4-12th Grade
Spring 2025 Pathfinders Registration starts Next Week!
DAPCEP Saturday courses are foundational STEM courses that prepare pre-K to 12th grade students to pursue advanced STEM educational pathways. Taking place in both the Fall and Spring, terms range from 6 to 8 weeks (our youngest learners in the Explorers program participate for 8 weeks). Courses take place both virtually, and in-person. Topics include: artificial intelligence, robotics, aerodynamics, computer programming, coding, chemical and engineering, artificial intelligence, and many more.
Financial Aid is Available!
Families who meet qualification guidelines are eligible for financial aid. Financial support reduces the cost of the application free and/or tuition by up to 50%. Click below to apply and learn more about eligibility.
3D Printing with AI
Grades 4-6
Students will fundamentals of 3-dimensional designs and engineering for making 3D prints.
All-Star Film Makers
Grades 6-8
Teams of 6-8 graders will learn the basics of film making using technology, software and equipment to produce a short film/movie trailer about select DAPCEP STEM classes. 1) History and purpose of Film Making? 2) The role of STEM and evolution of technology and equipment for filmmaking. 3) How to use storyboards to design a short film/movie trailer, 4) The history and purpose of DAPCEP and STEM programs. 5) Establish teams and teach how to use software and equipment to produce the film. 6) Select DAPCEP class assignments and begin filming editing.
Building Blocks of Math
Grades 4-5
Students will learn the foundational real world math skills like converting units of measures, calculating time, counting money, reading charts, etc. Students will also be able to use the math skills thought to apply to hands-on chemistry experiments. This course will help boost students math confidence and science knowledge in a fun and creative way.
Coding & Game Design
Grades 4-5
Learn to code in an interactive learning environment! Students build upon the fundamentals of coding and strengthen computer science skills using miniature-applications in coding.
Coding & Game Design (Intermediate)
Grades 6-8
Learn to code in an interactive learning environment! Students build upon the fundamentals of coding and strengthen computer science skills using miniature-applications in coding while completing project-based tasks. Students will practice programming and application to video-game design while creating their own in-game scenarios.
Dare2Design
Grades 4-5
Dare to Design is focused on developing an inventive and problem-solving mindset. The students will go through the 8-step process of invention and solve a problem they face regularly.
Drone Aerial Racers
Grades 7-8
Learning drone technology is crucial for engineers as it is being used as tools around the world and it enables them to explore innovative ways of data collection, surveillance, and inspection in various industries. Students will be grouped into teams to learn skills like teamwork, problem solving and communication.
Eco-Engineers
Grades 5-6
Have you ever wondered what it takes to design an animal habitat? Join us as we unpack the fascinating world of animals, using engineering skills to create your very own digital zoo habitat.
Electric Vehicle Design by Ford Motor Company
Grades 8-12
Aspects of automotive engineering and software engineering are introduced in a hands-on manner with robotic car design kits. This course incorporates STEM principles while learning real-world engineering processes and terminology.
Engineering Exploration
Grades 9-10 |
This course is designed for students to learn about a full variety of core STEM concepts. Students will spend each day performing lab experiments and activities designed to give them a broad view of the different types of engineering offered at Oakland University.
eSports
Grades 9-12
ATTENTION ALL GAMERS: Do you like to play competitive video games against other talented players in a competition-driven, team environment? Do you like developing real-life professional skills like teamwork, technology utilization, and time management strategies? If you answered yes to any of the above questions… what are you waiting for? Sign up for this interactive video-game oriented experience now!
Everyday Chemistry Program
Grade 12
In Everyday Chemistry course 4, students will continue to explore chemical principles through hands-on activities, and research methods. Examples of topics covered include popular chemistry, food chemistry, environmental chemistry, medicinal chemistry, cosmetic chemistry, etc.
Exam Experts SAT Level 2
Grades 10-12
This informative course will provide systemic, comprehensive training for the SAT exam, utilizing ExamExperts’ highly motivational Accelerated Retention Learning (ARL) training method. The major focus is placed upon building student confidence while eliminating test anxiety.
Explorations in STEM
Grades 4-5
This class will provide a unique view of engineering disciplines! Students will deepen their understanding of simple machines, speed, angles, slopes, collisions, kinetic energy, and potential energy.
Ford Future Program
Grade 12
With this class, students will learn basic concepts behind rechargeable battery technology. This class will teach some of the foundational materials chemistry used for batteries with hands-on activities, lab tours, etc.
Future Engineers (4-5th Grade)
Grades 4-5
This class provides students with the opportunity for engineering exploration through teamwork and daily challenges. Throughout the week, students will be exposed to multiple engineering disciplines and various STEM tools. Students will utilize robotic toys, drones, and programmable LEGOs to complete building challenges and participate in themed daily activities.
Future Engineers (6th Grade)
Grade 6
This class provides students with the opportunity for engineering exploration through teamwork and daily challenges. Students will utilize robotic toys, drones, and programmable LEGOs to complete building challenges and participate in themed daily activities.
Intro to Algebra & Engineering
Grades 6-8
This course is designed to give students early exposure to algebra content and engineering fields. Students will be taught Algebra 1 content using Math 4 Success innovative approach. Students will also get exposure to various engineering fields, such as, electrical, mechanical, industrial, and computer engineering. We will provide students with fun, hands-on engaging activities for the various engineering fields. Students will learn how Engineering is applied in the real-world by doing project-based experiments.
Intro to Coding & Game Development
Grades 6-12
This course will give students early exposure to the career of coding and gaming development. Students will learn how to build their own website, create their own games, and build their own augmented reality game.
Java
Grades 7-8
Programming Apps With JavaScript” course teaches 7th – 8th students lessons about computer science and JavaScript (or JS) programming using the Bitsbox application. This course will introduce the students to computer science scripting concepts, programming algorithms and JS syntaxes. Students will further develop an understanding of coding and JavaScript including variables, functions, graphical user interfaces (GUI), conditional statements and other programming basics. Students will storyboard, design and develop intermediate games, learn to debug and present their final projects.
Math Masters! Elementary
Grades 4-5
This valuable class is for 4th to 6th graders and will take a deep dive into problem-solving methods for Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. In particular, students will learn techniques and strategies to increase their proficiency in the subject, as well as learn mathematics strategies to solve complex problems quickly and more efficiently on tests and standardized exams. This is the math course you've been waiting for!
Math Masters! Middle School
Grades 6-8
This valuable class is for 6th to 8th graders and will take a deep dive into problem-solving methods for Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. In particular, students will learn techniques and strategies to increase their proficiency in the subject, as well as learn mathematics strategies to solve complex problems quickly and more efficiently on tests and standardized exams. This is the math course you've been waiting for!
Medicine in Engineering
Grades 9-12
The course will introduce students to the research and education program focused on removing boundaries between engineering and the medical fields. Students will be introduced to the field of biomedical engineering, innovative engineering solutions, solve problems in biology, physiology, and medicine
Minecraft Adventures: Survival Challenge
Grades 6-8
In this Minecraft survival camp, students will work to master advanced Redstone circuitry in order to create machines to provide essential items in survival mode. Students will complete group game challenges while learning to navigate and set up bases and resources for game survival.
Mini Robot Series – Mini Robot 1
Grades 7-8
This introductory microcontroller course will introduce the students to the hardware and software facets of a microcontroller. The focus of the course will be the construction and programming of a small educational robot, the Parallax Boe-Bot pictured below (parallax.com). This course will expose the students to digital outputs via light emitting diode (LED), digital Inputs via switch(es), servo motor (via wheels), and an ultrasonic sensor. Students will demonstrate their Boe-Bot for the “Show Case Presentation”. After the course a Boe-Bot is given to each student for them to take home.
Roblox e-Sports Game Design
Grades 7-8
“Roblox eSport Game Design” course teaches 7th-8th grade students lessons about the eSport industry and how to design a gaming platform using the Roblox Studio application. This course will introduce the students to game design concepts, virtual programming algorithms and Lua syntaxes. Students will further develop an understanding of online gaming design using 3D virtual world and coding including spectator mode, economics concepts, graphical user interfaces (GUI), in-app purchases and other gaming content. Students will storyboard, design and develop multiplayer games, learn to debug and present their final projects.
SAT Math Test Prep
Grades 9-12
Math 4 Success’ SAT Math Prep course is designed to prepare current high school students (9th-12th graders) for the PSAT and SAT tests. We will use our innovative approach to teaching math concepts, tips, and strategies that are required to perform well on the SAT sections. This course is designed by Dr. Lightfoot, who received a perfect score on the SAT math section.
Senior Seminar
Grade 12
DAPCEP Senior Seminar is designed for current 12th grade students. Students will learn about college culture and gain the skills needed to be successful. In the Fall, the 6 week schedule will focus on the college application process, financial aid, admissions and essays, ACT/SAT prep and other college readiness opportunities. In Spring 2023, we will focus on soft skills (interpersonal skills), Resume writing, and possible internship opportunities.
STEM Academy Part 2
Grades 9-12
(For Oakland County residents only) The DAPCEP STEM Academy will place students in activities designed to attract and retain their participation in science and engineering fields. This is the starting point for learners of all ages who need to establish a foundational skill set of digital competencies.
Tech Toys
Grades 4-5
Learn how to use a tiny computer, make things spin, light up, and play music. Create musical sculptures, interactive jewelry, dancing creatures and playful inventions.
Urban Design Architecture Workshop
Grades 7-12
Students are asked to develop a site located within one of Detroit’s most historic neighborhoods. Established in 1860, Brush Park was once known as “Little Paris''. The site is uniquely situated on Woodward Avenue between Edmund Place and Alfred Street. The site sits adjacent to Little Caesars Arena, Wayne State’s new Business school, the historic First Presbyterian Church, and a host of other residential and entertainment venues. Each class is divided into two parts. The first 60 minutes concentrates on an architectural topic which is explored through hands-on exercises. Sample topics include map reading, outdoor spaces, floor plan and scale, and building forms. The second 60 minutes focuses on teaching the students 3D modeling skills. A virtual project site was created in CAD. Students pick a building type to create in CAD. Students apply topics explored through previous hands-on exercises to their virtual designs.
Wallstreet Math Tank
Grades 6-8
Students will research their favorite product’s stock price and produce local and national financial news video reports by way of news wire research, writing and recording. Scholars will learn the role of math inside New York Stock Exchange.
Young Millionaires
Grades 6-9
Power To The Entrepreneurs! Our inspiring "Young Millionaires" course is a great choice for your student. The fun, interactive class will equip student participants in the following areas: 1. Steps to Owning and Operating a Business Enterprise; 2. Building Organizational Skills/Goal Setting; 3. Public Speaking and Presentation Skills; 4. Career Interests and Development; 5. Financial Literacy, and more!
Young Millionaires Level 2
Grades 6-9
Power To The Entrepreneurs! Our inspiring "Young Millionaires" course is a great choice for your student. This course will plant and water the seeds of entrepreneurship and academic excellence!