Families engaging in hands-on science activities at GRCC STEM Day 2023.
Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) recently hosted a successful STEM Day at the Calkins Science Center, drawing over 600 participants, a significant increase from last year. Families engaged in hands-on science activities, including owl pellet dissections and slime-making, fostering curiosity and creativity among attendees. GRCC students took on the role of mini experts, leading various stations and enhancing their understanding of STEM topics. With plans for another STEM Day in April, the event has sparked enthusiasm for STEM education in the local community.
Grand Rapids is buzzing with excitement after the recent successful STEM Day hosted by Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) at the Calkins Science Center on Saturday, March 22. This vibrant event brought together families, educators, and students, attracting over 600 participants this year! It’s a significant increase from the 350 visitors from the previous year and marks a joyful return after the event’s hiatus due to COVID-19 disruptions.
STEM Day has a rich history, beginning back in 2015 with the mission of engaging individuals of all ages in exciting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics activities. This year, it was particularly *heartwarming* to see families come together to explore hands-on science activities that sparked curiosity and creativity.
From owl pellet dissections to succulent propagation, attendees had a fantastic day filled with interactive learning. Young participants experienced activities like candy DNA formation, slime-making, and even animal-related demonstrations, thanks to the John Ball traveling zoo. There was also an opportunity for cow eye dissections, giving participants a unique glimpse into biological studies.
Among the shining moments, Kari Fuller, a dedicated teacher from Allendale, attended the event with her enthusiastic 6-year-old niece, Margo Ruster. Together, they explored the various science stations, promoting the importance of hands-on learning experiences. Margo especially loved the DNA learning activity and couldn’t get enough of the face painting – it was all about making learning fun!
Students from GRCC, taking on the role of “mini experts,” played a crucial part in leading activities. This collaboration not only benefited the younger attendees but helped bolster the students’ own understanding of STEM topics. A highlight for many was the owl pellet dissection room led by a biology professor who has been sharing her knowledge in this area for six years. Such initiatives underline the educational value of peer teaching in reinforcing knowledge.
The joy of STEM Day didn’t just stop there! Volunteers like Marissa Mengesha passionately emphasized inspiring the younger generation to *embrace* STEM careers. It’s about planting the seeds of curiosity and wonder in young minds, encouraging them to explore these fascinating fields.
And the excitement continues! GRCC is already planning another STEM Day on Saturday, April 13. This upcoming event promises even more engaging activities for families and a chance to dive deeper into the world of science through hands-on experiences. Mark your calendars and get ready for more fun and learning!
Overall, the GRCC STEM Day proved to be a remarkable occasion for individuals to engage with science in dynamic ways. By focusing on inclusive and interactive experiences, the event not only nurtured young minds but also ignited a passion for the STEM fields. Here’s to many more successful STEM Days in the future, where curiosity can blossom and creativity can soar!
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