RealWorld-InWorld builds on the synergies from combining, expanding, and redefining successful science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education strategies developed in collaboration with NASA:

1. The RealWorld experience will engage middle and high school students to complete an engineering design challenge developed and monitored by the National Institute of Aerospace. Registered adults/teachers receive free educator licenses to PTC Creo (Pro ENGINEER), 3D modeling software, for their students' use during this challenge.

2. The InWorld experience brings the middle and high school students' Real-World experience into a 3D, multi-user virtual world. Middle and High school students will be teamed with engineering college students and university students in information technology or computer science programs. Working together in the virtual world, teams will create a virtual 3D model and simulation to bring the Real-World design In-World. The In-World experience builds upon lessons learned from the VESC Modeling and Simulation MODSIM) Challenge beta test sponsored by NASA and NIA.

Educators and NASA professionals at GSFC and LaRC will guide the development of the combined Real-World and In-World engineering design challenge to assure authenticity and to deepen students' understanding of STEM careers, project management and NASA innovation.