At the Carnegie Museum of the Keweenaw, a buzz of excitement filled the air as children engaged in hands-on science experiments during the Mind Trekkers’ STEM Open House. This event showcased the power of interactive learning, with kids building stable bridges, witnessing chemical reactions, and even transforming fruit into music. The atmosphere crackled with curiosity and creativity, thanks to the Michigan Technological University group that has made it their mission to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in young minds.
Kira Shaffer, the vice president of Mind Trekkers, emphasized the importance of community engagement in STEM. “Getting younger students involved in STEM activities or getting to know more about STEM is very important,” she said. The joy on her face while interacting with children was palpable, especially when they experienced the thrill of discovery. This connection to the local community is essential; it’s not just about teaching concepts but about fostering excitement and curiosity that can lead to future careers in these fields.
The event featured a selection of demonstrations from an impressive collection of over 200 activities, carefully curated to ensure safety and engagement within the museum’s historical context. While some thrilling experiments, like fire demos and liquid nitrogen explosions, were off the table, the creativity of the Mind Trekkers shone through. Children learned about beam and suspension bridges, drawing real-world connections to structures they might encounter daily, such as the Eli Avenue Bridge in Gogebic County.
One of the standout attractions was the Musical Fruit table, where young musicians like 6-year-old twins Maxi and Juliette Piret played notes by tapping green bananas. This clever use of a MaKey MaKey circuit board demonstrated the principles of electrical conductivity in a fun, engaging way. As they held onto a lime, they completed a circuit that allowed them to trigger sounds on a computer. Their mother, Cécile Piret, highlighted the enthusiasm of her children, noting that Maxi was keen on concocting “magical potions,” a nod to his budding interest in chemistry.
The hands-on experiments extended to carbon dioxide gloves, which were a hit among the kids. The exothermic reaction between vinegar and baking soda filled the gloves with gas, creating a tangible connection to scientific principles. Nagi Nakamura, an 8-year-old attendee, expressed his delight succinctly: “Everything.” His mother, Asako, noted that he had enjoyed the event last year as well, showcasing the lasting impact these experiences can have on young minds.
Elise Nelson, director of the Carnegie Museum, reflected on the evolution of community engagement through these events. Initially, the museum hosted its own Science Saturdays, but the collaboration with Mind Trekkers has transformed the landscape. “It’s like having a mini-science museum in town,” she said, emphasizing how this partnership draws families who might feel intimidated by larger events at Michigan Tech.
Looking ahead, the Carnegie Museum plans to host a Holiday Open House, while Mind Trekkers will participate in the third annual OneUP Copper Trail Festival, a significant STEM and career expo for sixth-grade students. With upcoming events extending to Port Huron and Green Bay, the ripple effect of such community-focused initiatives is undeniable. They not only educate but also build a foundation for future generations to explore the vast world of science and technology. The excitement generated by these events could very well inspire the next wave of engineers, scientists, and innovators, proving that when communities come together to celebrate learning, the possibilities are limitless.
