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**Please note**

  • Please read about how to submit your application on our website. We will not review applications submitted via Handshake; we will only review applications submitted via the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment Database.
  • This internship may be virtual.
  • All accepted interns will have the option to apply for an internship stipend based on disclosed financial need after their selection.

Spark!Lab is a hands-on invention studio that engages visitors in the process and history of invention. As a result of the pandemic we have developed and imagined multiple digital modes of emulating Spark!Lab. We continue to deepen those modes of engagement through the use of digital assets and free public access platforms. We are seeking interns with knowledge of coding and 3D design to take part in exploring the gamification of the Spark!Lab exhibit space experience, particularly on the Roblox platform.

Goal: Overall, this internship aims to teach interns how to work effectively within the constraints of existing digital platforms to mirror the experience of a hands on museum space, practice creative use of digital interaction to encourage engagement in the history and process of invention, and grow in their skills of professional teamwork and collaboration.

Status: Virtual

Anticipated Learning Objectives: By the end of this internship, the intern will:

  • Develop a basic understanding of invention education and the Spark!Lab in person experience
  • Explore the use of historical objects and STEM concepts as inspiration for invention-based interactives
  • Meaningfully participate in development of prototype Spark!Lab experience
  • Understand the rationale and structure behind existing Spark!Lab experiences, both digital and physical

Expected Responsibilities: During the internship, the intern should expect to:

  • Investigate existing digital interactive museum experiences
  • Explore and share out potential free platforms, formats and structures
  • Collaborate with museum staff on interactive open ended digital experiences within free digital platforms

Ideal Qualifications / Prerequisites: The ideal intern applicant is/has:

  • Base to extensive knowledge of 3D design, coding and game creation
  • Familiarity with the Roblox platform
  • Prefer, but not required, knowledge of basic education theory
  • Back end interest in game creation, 3D design and or coding

Audience: This internship is specialized for individuals who already have some experience in this field. This internship is intended for 1 intern. We are seeking someone who demonstrates and interest in the following areas: Museum Education, Computer Science, Coding, Game Development, Digital Learning Through Play. Community college students, undergraduates, recent graduates, graduate students, career changers, and other professionals are encouraged to apply.

Timeline: This internship will take place during Fall 2021 and is anticipated to be 12 weeks long. This internship will be part-time (with a minimum of 16 hours per week), and the specific schedule will be discussed between the selected intern and their mentor.

Eligible for Academic Credit: Yes! Interns may receive program or course credit for this experience if approved by their educational institution. Though NMAH does not itself award credit, the Interns and Fellows Office will help coordinate the requirements for credit with the educational institution.

Optional Enrichment Opportunities: Interns are invited to participate in optional opportunities during the internship that support professional growth and foster understanding about the museum field.

Financial Information: This opportunity does not guarantee a stipend. However, upon selection, interns will have the opportunity to apply for a stipend based on financial need; the amount of internship stipends depends on the amount of museum funds available and is at the discretion of NMAH. Internship stipends issued by the Smithsonian are not considered salary or meant as compensation, but are awarded to help defray living expenses for an intern during the term of their appointment. If an intern is awarded a stipend, stipends cannot be distributed before the start of an internship, and we typically recommend that an intern has at least enough external funding to cover the first month’s expenses to accommodate the wait time required in stipend processing. To learn more, please check out our Internship FAQ page.
If you have any questions about the internship, please contact Caroline Fiertz, Interns & Fellows Program Manager at the National Museum of American History, at NMAHintern@si.edu or 202-633-3556.



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