June 29, 2020
What:
While guests cannot currently visit the Science Museum of Virginia to experience STEM demonstrations in the labs and exhibits, the Museum wants to make sure the public does not forget that there is science all around them, and that they can explore engaging science principals from home in fun and creative ways.
Encouraged by the popularity of the astronomy shows broadcast on Facebook and Zoom-based Lunch Break Science presentations, educators are producing another virtual weekly series dubbed Science Shorts as another way to keep supporters connected to the Museum.
Starting June 30, education team members will offer a less than five minute video explaining a science topic through a demonstration or activity. The Museum will then post follow-up resources that build on the topic in the video on its website for social followers to continue exploring from home.
When:
The Science Short shows will air weekly on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. beginning June 30.
Who:
Curious-minded guests of all ages are invited to watch the videos and try out the activities at home. There is no registration or fee required.
Where:
The programs will be posted on the Museum’s social media channels: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram. The corresponding activity guide will accessible on the Museum’s website.
Why:
Social followers have responded positively to the STEM at Home activities the Museum has posted since the public closure in mid-March, but also have expressed missing the educator-led interactions for which the Museum is known. Staff believe the Science Shorts will offer the demo experience guests enjoyed while at the Museum, the directions for conducting science at home and the reminder that quarantining and summer break does not mean forgetting about science.
The Museum is also using these digital videos to highlight the importance of science in our everyday lives and offer a dose of inspiration no matter where the audience is located.
How:
The new virtual series is made possible thanks to the generous support of WestRock.