Science World’s Mission is pretty straight forward—to engage British Columbians in science and inspire future science and technology leadership throughout our province.
So, what does that mission look like in real life? Well, throughout this last week, I have given you a peek into one of the programs that goes on the road and across BC, aptly named, On The Road. This program brings science to schools.
Children are naturally curious
Witnessing this program in action alone made my trip, but I was fortunate enough to experience so much more!
My last post touched on Science World’s Scientists and Innovators in the Schools program. Here, Science World connects science educators with schools who request visits from local experts. But I learned that Science World does more than just connect the two, they provide workshops, they assist in presentation development and they support these educators.
Jo-Ann Coggan (L) demonstrates how scientists can make their presentations fun and engaging
Friday was our last day in Prince George. It was a Professional Development Day, so there was no school for the children. However, there was still plenty of science fun to be had.
After checking out of our hotel, the team headed to Kelly Road Secondary. Here, Karen Lee held a workshop for teachers to assist them with the new, inquiry-based curriculum that is happening all around the province.
In true Science World fashion, Karen engaged the teachers with hands-on projects.
Working in groups, teachers make parachutes using an inquiry-based approach
Following each activity, there is a discussion to develop a better understanding about the curriculum challenges and benefits.
Karen Lee leads educators in a discussion about the new curriculum model
The three-hour session goes by quickly and after a quick bite to eat, the team is off to the College of New Caledonia for a community science event for families and at-risk youth.
While the audience gathers, Charlotte entertains the crowd with a static electricity demonstration
Children and adults discover how smell and taste are connected through the jelly bean taste test
In addition to the Science World shows, there was a make-and-take table, where children and adults could learn more about scientific principles by creating something that they could take home.
Jo-Ann demonstrates how to make Dixie cups fly
The table proved to be very popular! For those who were unable to attend, you can find these, and many more activities, to do at home, here.
It was really hard to say good bye to Prince George and all those smiling faces.
A young scientist is keen to try out the Van de Graaff generator
As we headed to the airport and our flight home, we reminisced about our time in PG and all the amazing connections that we made.
Time to head home
Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey of discovery. I tried to share as much as I could, but I know that there is so much more that I simply couldn’t cover. You can find out more about these, and other amazing Science World programs, on the Science World website.
Until we meet again, be safe and happy science!
Filed under: COMMUNITY, Environment Tagged: community, curriculum, discovery, experiments, Fun, Prince George, school, science, science world, Vancouver Sun
