Empowering teachers with inquiry-based science tools

client bio

Van Andel Education Institute helps students and teachers develop curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through hands-on science programs, professional development, and innovative educational resources focused on inquiry-based learning.

Industry:
Education
Van Andel Education Institute (VAEI) is a leader in science education innovation, focusing on training teachers in inquiry-based learning techniques. They built NexGen Inquiry with Atomic Object to provide teachers with digital tools to help students think and act like scientists.
12
Atoms
worked together on this project
11
Years
average team-member experience
100
Percent
team members based in U.S.A.
100
Percent
hold at least an undergraduate degree

Client Outcomes

“NexGen Inquiry is very intuitive; after just an hour of working with teachers, they have it down. It’s exceeded my expectations, and the teachers using it are really impressed.”

Jim Nicolette, Associate Director

A Powerful Science Journal for Inquiry-Based Learning

NexGen Inquiry provides an intuitive web-based science journal that supports student investigations using the QPOE2 model. The platform enables data collection, graph creation, and collaborative learning, while teachers can create and assign experiment templates, review student work, and engage in a growing online teacher community.

Project deliverables
Web application development
Visual design
Inquiry-based investigation tools
Online teacher community
Marketing website in Craft CMS

Technical Innovation

See how our development team implemented this project's requirements.
tech stack
EmberJS
EmberJS
Zurb Foundation
Zurb Foundation
PostgreSQL
PostgreSQL
Ruby on Rails
Ruby on Rails
platforms

web

mobile

desktop

embedded

cloud

Custom-built Science Journal for Students

A spreadsheet tool allows students as young as kindergarten to create tables, charts, and graphs. The system includes built-in formulas and an intuitive interface designed for early learners.

Scalable Teacher Community

NexGen Inquiry includes a rapidly expanding online teacher network where educators can share best practices, resources, and professional development materials.

Rich Front-End in Ember.js

The web app features a dynamic and responsive interface built with Ember.js, ensuring smooth interactions and a seamless user experience for students and teachers alike.

Verified On Clutch

Validated, third party reviews from Atomic clients

See how our clients rate their experience working with Atomic on Clutch. Read verified reviews that highlight our commitment to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional results.

Curious if Atomic Object is the Right Fit? Let’s Find Out Together.

When you schedule a call with Atomic, you’ll speak directly with a managing partner. This free consultation is led by an experienced strategist who will discuss your goals, timeline, and budget model while providing valuable insights to help shape your project
4.9
out of 5 rating on Clutch.co
24+
Years in business
300+
Products built for clients
200+
Custom Software Clients
4
Regional offices to serve U.S. clients
100+
Full-time, U.S. - based consultants