STEM-ology, a monthly series of themed science, technology, engineering and mathematics
(STEM) events for all ages, continues this month at the University of Wyoming, with
events including Toddler Tuesdays, Senior Science Fridays and fun-filled family STEM
Saturdays.
STEM-ology highlights cross-program collaborations and high-impact learning experiences
through free public activities via the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium Science
Kitchen, the Science Initiative Roadshow and other UW groups.
This month’s events, the second of the spring semester, will have a theme of physics
and will take place in the STEM Sandbox, located on the fourth floor of the Science
Initiative Building, located at the corner of Ninth and Bradley streets.
Last fall, STEM-ology drew more than 304 participants from the local community and
neighboring states, says Karagh Brummond, director of the UW Top-Tier Science Initiative
Engagement and Outreach Program.
“We are bringing STEM to life with engaging, hands-on experiences for all ages. Programs
are designed to spark curiosity, inspire creativity and make science, technology,
engineering and math fun and interactive,” Brummond says.
The March schedule is:
— Tuesday, March 24, 10-10:30 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.: Toddler Tuesdays allow children
to explore the world through hands-on activities and sensory play. Toddlers will explore the exciting world of pushes and pulls through playful experiments
using Hot Wheels cars and simple ramps. Children will predict how objects will move,
test their ideas, and observe how the strength and direction of a push or pull changes
motion. Through rolling, sliding and experimenting, young scientists will begin to
discover how forces make things move. To RSVP, go here.
— Friday, March 27, 10-11 a.m.: Senior Science Fridays offer a fun and engaging way
for older adults to explore the wonders of science. Seniors will explore the fascinating
world of electricity and electromagnetism through a series of engaging hands-on activities.
Participants will build simple circuits using conductive materials to see how electricity
flows, lights LEDs and powers small devices. The session also may include creating
a simple motor and exploring how magnets and electric currents work together to create
motion. Through guided experimentation and discussion, participants will gain insight
into the physics principles that power many everyday technologies. To RSVP, go here or call (307) 766-4186.
— Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.-noon: STEM Saturday is a fun-filled family day designed
for all ages. Participants will begin by listening to a short presentation from Danny
Dale, the Carrell Family Interim Dean of UW’s College of Engineering and Physical
Sciences, and the Harry C. Vaughan Professor of Astronomy. Dale will share a few exciting
discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope and how this powerful tool uses physics
to study the universe.
Following the talk, families will rotate through a variety of hands-on physics exploration
stations. Activities may include building marble roller coasters; experimenting with
electric circuits; exploring pushes and pulls with motion activities; testing the
Bernoulli principle; launching straw rockets; investigating light refraction; and
experiencing other engaging physics demonstrations. These activities are designed
to be playful, interactive and accessible for learners of all ages.
An RSVP is not required for STEM Saturday, but families are asked to arrive in time
for check-in from 10-10:15 a.m.
For more information, email Brummond at STEMSandbox@uwyo.edu or go to www.wyomingspacegrant.org/stem-ology/.