Bachelors of Arts in Education (BAE) students in the (now) senior cohort of PLU’s School of Education volunteered this last April at the Snake Lake Nature Center (SLNC) to put on a science fair. As a key part of their science methods class, BAE students worked with the local nature center to educate, produce, and analyze a science fair for K-12 students in the area. The cohort took on various roles within the science fair including running family workshops prior to the fair, planning and leading activities during the fair, judging, compiling feedback, and handing out certificates and awards. The fair coincided with Earth Day, making April 20 an extra special day for bringing science into the hands of kids.
The SLNC organized the community science fair with the help of Cathy Kim, Associate Professor of Education. Kim specializes in science and engineering practices, as well as innovation and technology in education. “Approximately 50 people were present during open public viewing to speak with young scientists, vote for the Community Choice Award, and explore science,” states Kim. “Students ranged in age from 5 to 15, representing homeschool and multiple area school districts, and judges, award support, and activity coordinators were PLU preservice teachers.”
The SLNC has been putting on science fairs for years, continuously sparking science engagement in the Tacoma communities students. Kim spoke to this, stating that, “This event follows nine years of community science fairs held at Snake Lake Nature Center pre-COVID and a revitalizing of a powerful means of supporting scientific inquiry and cultivating STEM identities.” As a precursor to the science fair itself, Kim states that “Two free workshops were offered and attended by students and families prior to the Fair and more direct work connecting to local public schools is expected in the future.”
For more information on what the SLNC does, visit their website via Metro Parks Tacoma.
