First MSU Science Festival engages families and youth in science
Michigan State University's (MSU) campus was transformed into a giant science laboratory for the first MSU Science Festival April 12- 21.
Michigan State University’s (MSU) campus was transformed into a giant science laboratory for the first MSU Science Festival April 12- 21. MSU Extension, along with the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR), had science stations set up which catered to both youth and their families. The Lansing State Journal Expo Tent housed numerous MSU Extension 4-H science stations that caught the eye of the several thousand visitors who stopped by to get a glimpse of the wide array of activities presented.
Rather than presenting primarily theoretical examples of science, MSU Science Festival was an opportunity for participants to learn the practical concepts of science used daily. Resources did not end when families left the festival; some of the activities offered were extended so that participants could use what they learned on campus at home or in their schools. In addition to MSU Extension and CANR, other departments at MSU that were involved include Forestry, Earth Science, Engineering, Physics and more.
Although this was the first Science Festival at MSU, those involved with planning the event are excited to announce there will be a second annual MSU Science Festival next year. “We learned some lessons and anticipate the event to be bigger and better next year,” said MSU Extension educator Jake DeDecker. “We received a lot of positive feedback from participants that were happy to see such a great science opportunity for their family.”
