There were no spouting volcanoes or tri-fold boards at Signal Hill Science Day on May 30. Instead, students got the chance to experience presentations from experts in their fields, covering the spectrum of scientific principles.
Liz Byham, the coordinator of the event, put together a program that would interest students and get them involved in the sessions, rather than just listening to them.
“We have sessions for each age group,” Byham said. “The presenters do their presentations first, and then the kids have the chance to do some hands-on learning in the second half of the sessions.”
The sessions included presentations about recycling, the solar system, nature and even yoga.
Aaron Krause, president, CEO and inventor of Scrub Daddy, was one of the many volunteers who came to present.
“I volunteered for the event because of the passion I have for invention, which 90 percent of the time requires a good understanding of science and how things work,” Krause said. “I hope my presentation will have a positive and long-lasting impact on these young minds and help foster the next generation of American inventors and entrepreneurs.”
Another presenter, William Slaven, manager of engineering with URS Corporation, shares Krause’s feelings about the importance of the sciences.
“The economy has somewhat stabilized and the engineering and construction industry is growing,” Slaven said. “Helping to showcase the sciences to elementary school students hopefully gives them the interest to explore and consider a future career that uses math and science, like architecture, engineering and construction.”
In the presentations Slaven and Krause gave, students were able to participate. Krause sees the opportunity to get the students excited about doing science at such a young age.
“Children at this age are very curious and, like sponges, soak up knowledge and can gain a lifelong love of the discipline,” Krause said. “This is the time to feed that curiosity, which in turn creates a new generation of inventors that I believe are the backbone of the country.”
The Science Day program is diverse enough to allow students to get a glimpse into everything, according to Byham.
“We have presenters from all walks of life,” Byahm said. “It’s good for the students to see all the different ways to use science. The yoga presentation was particularly a big hit this year.”
According to Slaven, the presenters have a responsibility to pass on their knowledge to the new generation.
“It’s important to give back,” Slaven said. “Engineering has done much for me, so in turn, I must help engineering through helping others see it as a career path for them. I know how hard it is for children and even adults to figure out what career or degree to pursue… So, early exposure to any and all jobs is always good knowledge to have.”
