UW STEM-ology Provides Energy and Natural Resources Activities for All Ages This Month

STEM-ology, a monthly series of themed science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) events for all ages, concludes this month at the University of Wyoming, with events including Toddler Tuesdays, Senior Science Fridays and fun-filled family Science Saturdays.

STEM-ology highlights cross-program collaborations and high-impact learning experiences through free public activities via the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium Science Kitchen, the Science Initiative Roadshow and other UW groups. 

This month’s events, the last of the spring semester, will have a theme of energy and natural resources, and will take place in the STEM Sandbox, located on the fourth floor of the Science Initiative Building, located at the corner of Ninth and Bradley streets.

Last fall, STEM-ology drew more than 304 participants from the local community and neighboring states, says Karagh Brummond, director of the UW Top-Tier Science Initiative Engagement and Outreach Program.

“We are bringing STEM to life with engaging, hands-on experiences for all ages. Programs are designed to spark curiosity, inspire creativity and make science, technology, engineering and math fun and interactive,” Brummond says.

The April schedule is:

-- Tuesday, April 21, 10-10:30 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.: Toddler Tuesdays allow children to explore the world through hands-on activities and sensory play. Toddlers will explore the exciting world of energy from light through a playful solar beads experiment. Children will observe how special beads change color when exposed to sunlight, helping them discover how light carries energy. Through hands-on exploration, young scientists will begin to understand how the sun provides energy that can cause changes they can see. To RSVP, go here.

-- Friday, April 24, 10-11 a.m.: Senior Science Fridays offer a fun and engaging way for older adults to explore the wonders of science. Seniors will explore the role of energy in our everyday lives through a fun and interactive “energy bingo” activity that will highlight different energy sources and technologies specific to Wyoming. In partnership with the UW School of Energy Resources, participants also will enjoy a guided rooftop solar tour where they will learn how solar panels capture and convert sunlight into usable electricity. Through discussion and real-world examples, participants will gain a deeper understanding of renewable energy and its impact on Wyoming and beyond. To RSVP, go here or call (307) 766-4186.

-- Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m.-noon: STEM Saturday is a fun-filled family day designed for all ages. Activities include experimenting with solar beads to explore light energy; playing “energy bingo” to learn about different energy sources; and participating in guided rooftop solar tours. Participants also can experience a state-of-the-art drilling simulator at UW; map Wyoming’s natural resources; and investigate the water cycle through engaging, hands-on activities. This event highlights how energy is produced, used and connected to the natural world around us.

An RSVP is not required for STEM Saturday, but families are asked to arrive in time for check-in from 10-10:15 a.m.

For more information, email Brummond at STEMSandbox@uwyo.edu or go to www.wyomingspacegrant.org/stem-ology/.