"It just blew me away!" -MSI guest describes Science Storms
Posted By: Jerry Rice, March 19, 2010 11:22 AM
The verdict is in. It might be unanimous. Chicago loves Science Storms!
I got to play man on the street today (well, marble floor, anyway), and it was great to hear what people had to say about the new exhibit.
I asked one question: "So, what do you think?"
Here are some of the answers.
"I don't even know where to start! It's all so cool. I'm going for the tornado!" -student, age 12, Plainfield
"It's magnificent. Tom Skilling was impressed? I'm sold!" -April, Highland Park
"We didn't know about this. We came to see baby chicks and the Fairy Castle. We'll never get to see it all." -Mary, Steve and Julie, Oak Park and Evanston
"There just aren't words...you've got to see it!" -Jeanine and Nick, Chicago
"How did you guys dream [of] this? It's like a fairy tale playground. Like a Disney World for geeks!" -Kari, Chicago
"There just aren't words to describe this." [Try some] "Big. Fun. Imaginitive. Amazing." -Blake, Lisle
"One word. Wow." [That's three words.] "Wow." -Joe, Chicago
"I'm asking my parents to bring us on spring break so I can see everything I missed. That tornado is soooo cool!" -Jennifer, age 11
The exclamation points may seem over the top, but I'd need my editor's OK to use triple exclamation points to mirror the actual enthusiasm! I think you get the idea. If you haven't already, you need to get down here to see it for yourself.
Learn more about Science Storms here. Support the Science Rediscovered campaign that made it all possible by making a secure online gift here.
Brought to you through the generosity of The Allstate Corporation, The Allstate Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. David W. Grainger, and The Grainger Foundation. Additional major funding provided by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Lightning in a bottle. Science Storms is open!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, March 18, 2010 10:02 AM
Science Rediscovered presents...Science Storms!
Today, Science Storms officially takes its place as the newest in a long tradition of incredible interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry. Now open in Allstate Court, this inspiring exhibit has already been described as "lightning in a bottle" and "a science lab on steroids" by local newspaper and television reporters. Museum President and CEO David Mosena called it "the grandest thing we've ever done."
We couldn't have done it without the generosity of donors who truly believe in our vision to inspire the next generation of inventors and innovators—and that science education isn't confined to a textbook. Science Storms is experiential learning at its best, combining our inherent fascination with weather and natural phenomena with a hands-on way to interact with these phenomena.
Science Storms is one of a kind, it's open for business and it's free with general admission.
Photo Caption: The 20-foot Tesla Coil puts on a 1.2 million volt show of electrical discharge, providing spectacular indoor lightning strikes up to 10 feet long.
Brought to you through the generosity of The Allstate Corporation, The Allstate Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. David W. Grainger, and The Grainger Foundation. Additional major funding provided by the U.S. Department of Energy.
MSI: Something amazing happens here every day.
Posted By: Jerry Rice, March 11, 2010 10:04 AM
Every day I spend at work, I see something that surprises me. A little girl's face lights up when she beats her dad at a game of Mindball. One of the teens in the Science Minors program gets accepted to college and runs in to hug one of our staff members. Or I get to see something that I've never seen before!
That last one has been happening a lot lately as my coworkers put the finishing touches on Science Storms, a brand new permanent exhibit scheduled to open on March 18. I've known for a while that this was going to be something special, but seeing it all come together has been incredible, and when we unveil it next week, you'll see just what I mean.
Just a month ago I had never heard of a Wimshurst Machine. Now I've seen one up close and so will you when you visit Science Storms (one of our senior exhibit developers is making some adjustments in the photo above). You'll also see equipment used in landmark scientific experiments, launch a tsunami wave, create your own chemical reaction and more. But don't take my word for it. Check out our Behind the Scenes blog for photos and descriptions of what's to come.
Our Science Rediscovered campaign continues to transform the Museum of Science and Industry. Make a gift today and help us make sure that something amazing happens here every day!
There's a storm coming. Are you ready?
Posted By: Jerry Rice, March 3, 2010 4:14 PM
Science Storms is coming. Are you ready?
This year, March will not go out like a lamb at the Museum of Science and Industry. At MSI, these storms are here to stay!
Years in the making, Science Storms began as a collection of amazing ideas and sketches on paper. Now, through our work with scientists and storm chasers, dreamers and donors, we're almost ready to present this incredible new experience to Chicago - and the world!
Words simply aren't enough to describe such a visual, hands-on experience that includes going toe-to-toe with a twister, launching projectiles alongside Chicago Bulls player Derrick Rose and triggering a tsunami. You need to see it to believe it, and you can beginning March 18.
For now, get a behind-the-scenes look at the work in progress here.
We're fortunate to have dedicated volunteers and donors whose support helped make this possible. We have a lot of people to thank, and we'll start with the Science Storms Advisory Committee. Thank you all for your dedication and commitment to this exciting project!
Additionally, we thank The Allstate Corporation, The Allstate Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. David W. Grainger, and The Grainger Foundation for their generosity. Additional major funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Image courtesy of National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Transforming the Museum of Science and Industry
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Feb. 22, 2010 9:10 AM
Noticed anything different lately about your favorite Museum? We debuted our all-new look just in time to run a fun commercial spot during the Olympic Opening Ceremonies! Check it out here.
More importantly, this new look signifies just how much has transformed at MSI in the first decade of the 21st century. We've painstakingly renewed and enhanced your favorite exhibits and spaces - U-505 Submarine, Farm Tech, Henry Crown Space Center and more. And we've added exciting new interactive experiences like Earth Revealed, Fast Forward and YOU! The Experience. We're not even close to being finished either. In March, we'll blow you away with an indoor tornado. And in the years to come, we'll treat you to an all-new way to experience exploration and energy. When the dust settles, 90 percent of our exhibit space will be renewed or brand new!
We're also working to be even more interactive and accessible to you from outside our historic building. Our Web site is more interactive than ever, with more content, fun games related to science and even step-by-step instructions for experimenting at home! SciPass is stepping it up even further, connecting you to MSI exhibits via our Web site.
Above all else, don't forget about our commitment to inspire the next generation of scientists and surgeons - engineers and explorers. Our Center for the Advancement of Science Education is cranking out innovative programs for students, teachers, community partners and, of course, our guests. Just take a scroll down this blog for some of our great success stories.
We're transforming the Museum of Science and Industry. How will we transform you?
Museum Announces $25,000 CASE Matching Grant
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Feb. 10, 2010 12:25 PM
Make a gift to the Museum’s Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE), and your support could count for double the amount. That’s twice the impact on our educational programs designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and surgeons – engineers and explorers!
Right now, thanks to a matching grant from a private foundation, your gift to CASE will count for double if you're a first-time donor or haven't made a gift in either of the last two calendar years. To support our work, make a gift now. Or contact Maggie Morrison, Director of Individual Giving, at maggie.morrison(at)msichicago.org or (773) 947-3726 for more details.
Support CASE, Support Teachers
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Feb. 10, 2010 12:25 PM
Carmen Taglia is a seventh-grade teacher at Hanson Park Elementary School. His students are benefitting from his experiences in our professional development programs offered through the Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE).
Carmen described how our programs helped him and his fellow teachers improve the science curriculum at their school.
"The workshop experience has helped us create a bond as a science team," Carmen explained. "We've sat down and mapped out a linear curriculum that takes students from sixth- through eighth-grade science. And it's really making a difference. Now, students enter my classroom with much more knowledge and interest than in previous years."
Once teachers are accepted into our program, we provide workshops throughout the year that help them integrate fun, hands-on learning experiences into their classrooms. We also send them back to their schools with the supplies needed to do those activities and offer their classes a free bus ride so their students can visit the Museum.
"This whole experience has reinvigorated me as a teacher," said Carmen.
Right now, thanks to a matching grant from a private foundation, your gift to CASE will count for double if you're a first-time donor or haven't made a gift in either of the last two calendar years. To support our work, make a gift now. Or contact Maggie Morrison, Director of Individual Giving, at maggie.morrison(at)msichicago.org or (773) 947-3726 for more details.
Support CASE, Support the Community
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Feb. 10, 2010 10:10 AM
Last spring, I visited the RBC Community Center located in Englewood to see firsthand the impact the Museum's educational programs are having in the community. It was incredible to see what committed volunteers and some support from the Museum can do for children and teens!
CASE, our Center for the Advancement of Science Education, provides training and the materials needed to do some fun science experiments. In the photo above, the kids are launching projectiles using a trebuchet (a type of catapult) that they built using common household materials, such as milk cartons, rulers and tape. It's our way of inspiring them to think about science as something fun and approachable. The RBC Community Center appreciates the resources and the learning opportunities for their after-school program.
"This community has very few resources, and we would not have the financial means or the knowledge to support this kind of program," explained Rev. Brenda Hollins, who runs the center. "The Museum gives us all the training and supplies we need.
"These children are essentially walled in, and in most cases going to the Museum - much less walking a few blocks - just isn't possible. That's why it's a godsend to bring science to this community."
Right now, thanks to a matching grant from a private foundation, your gift to CASE will count for double if you're a first-time donor or haven't made a gift in either of the last two calendar years. To support our work, make a gift now. Or contact Maggie Morrison, Director of Individual Giving, at maggie.morrison(at)msichicago.org or (773) 947-3726 for more details.
We made our 2009 Annual Fund goal! Thank you!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Feb. 8, 2010 5:24 PM
We did it! Thanks to you, we made our 2009 Annual Fund goal. Your continued support helped us raise more than $4 million to inspire the next generation of scientists and surgeons, engineers and explorers. We believe that by promoting a healthy curiosity for science in today's children, they will be motivated to tackle tomorrow's biggest challenges in areas like climate change, medicine, renewable energy, farming, clean drinking water, irrigation and more.
Because of you, baby chicks are still hatching, our new Hamster Wheel is still spinning, the Coal Mine is delighting guests and, most importantly, we're all inspired by science! As always, your gift to the Annual Fund helped us develop and maintain our world-class exhibits, present exciting live science experiences for families, host professional development workshops for teachers and welcome more than a quarter of a million students on field trips.
It's never too early to make your gift to the 2010 Annual Fund and help us take a stand for quality science education and present the interactive Museum Chicago loves!
Feeling Festive? Make a Gift that Inspires!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 29, 2009 10:17 AM
It's December 29. The presents are unwrapped, and you've made a battery run so the kids are happy. You even exchanged that warm fuzzy sweater for the right size and settled in for a few moments of hot cocoa, peace and quiet.
Now what? Well, you've got two days to make your donation count toward your 2009 taxes!
Stay in the giving spirit and support our effort to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, doctors and explorers - the future leaders who will ensure that our holidays are merry and bright for decades to come!
Gifts to the Museum of Science and Industry support science education programs, our beloved exhibits - both time-tested and new - and science experiences in our historic building and out in the community.
Make your gift today. Make it count in 2009. And help us take a stand for quality science education and present the interactive Museum Chicago loves!
Can't Get Here? Explore the Museum Online!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 21, 2009 4:45 PM
Nothing can replace the experience of visiting the Museum of Science and Industry in person. But for Museum fans living in other cities and even overseas, our new online presence is a welcome addition to the overall Museum experience. Even local Museum fans love staying more updated with the instant updates, access to information and interactive features.
Visitors to msichicago.org can explore special in-depth exhibit content and suggestions for where they can learn more. Parents and teachers appreciate the Online Science section, where hands-on projects and experiments are available for kids to try at home or in the classroom. A newer project has been the Museum’s podcast, featuring interviews with some of the interesting and newsworthy figures who visit the Museum.
We now also use social media like Facebook and Twitter to update our audience on Museum happenings, answer visit-related questions and insert some science into the day of thousands of our followers. When guests and members interact on these sites, they reinforce their relationships with the Museum … or generate new ones.
If you're reading this, you've obviously found the Web site, but take some time to poke around and sign up for regular updates through Facebook, Twitter and e-newsletters!
Take some time to explore the expanding msichicago.org and see why the Museum of Science and Industry is more interactive than ever before.
Funding for the Museum's new Web site provide by the Science Rediscovered campaign.
The Museum Changes Lives (the stories speak for themselves!)
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 8, 2009 3:25 PM
Science Achievers (part of the Science Minors youth development series) is one of our many programs that change lives every day. But the proof is in the stories, so let Jessica (center) tell you in her own words:
By participating in the Science Achievers program, I have improved my presentation skills. I have always been able to perform in front of large audiences, as I am involved in theatre, but I have always had a fear of presenting before somewhat small groups. Science Achievers has helped me overcome my fear and taught me that in order to speak well in front of groups, I must be prepared. Before going out to present, I always refresh my memory on what the topic is and how I should present it.
Science Achievers has also introduced me to many people from different backgrounds. Through the program, I have built relationships with people who don't go to the same school or live in the same area. In addition to extending my social network, Science Achievers has given me the opportunity to learn from skilled scientists who are experts in their field. Working on the Museum floor has also allowed me to interact with people from other cities and even different countries. It has also made me realize that learning is interactive—I learn from the guests at the same time that they learn from me through sharing experiences and stories. Science Achievers has truly allowed me to take my passion for science and people to a whole new level.
— Jessica C. Williams, Science Achiever
Help change lives! Make a gift to the Annual Fund and keep programs like Science Minors going strong.
Photo caption: Science Achievers Ariel Bradley, Jessica Williams and Sydney James pictured in the YOU! The Experience exhibit.
The Museum Changes Lives (the stories speak for themselves!)
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 8, 2009 2:48 PM
Science Achievers (part of the Science Minors youth development series) is one of our many programs that change lives every day. But the proof is in the stories, so let Treandes tell you in his own words:
Throughout my life, I've always thought, "What can I do to make myself stand out from everyone else?" I've tried joining sports and even the math club, but nothing had fulfilled me the way I wanted. Then, one day a school announcement listed the Museum of Science and Industry as an opportunity to complete our service learning hours. It instantly got my attention and an idea sparked in my head, "That's it! That is the thing that will make me different from everyone else in my school." I was overjoyed by the new possibility to be different and stand out as the only person that goes to the Museum of Science and Industry. Finally, I found a way to fulfill my hunger to be different, and that is through the Museum.
— Treandes Hunter, Jr., Science Achiever
Help change lives! Make a gift to the Annual Fund and keep programs like Science Minors going strong.
The Museum Changes Lives (the stories speak for themselves!)
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 8, 2009 1:25 PM
Science Achievers (part of the Science Minors youth development series) is one of our many programs that change lives every day. But the proof is in the stories, so let Alex tell you in her own words:
The Science Achievers program has taught me a lot about science, leadership and public speaking. I came into the program with a strong interest in science, which has become enriched in ways that I did not expect. The program has exposed me to new technology and innovations like solar panels, hydrogen-powered cars, and rehabilitative technology like prosthetic limbs. My public speaking skills have greatly improved. I used to be very shy about speaking in front of people, but now I am more confident and outgoing. Aside from public speaking, I have learned a lot about leadership and have been able to exercise such qualities in my interactions with visitors at the Museum, but also in my daily life at home and school.
— Alexandra Monacelli, Science Achiever
Help change lives! Make a gift to the Annual Fund and keep programs like Science Minors going strong.
Photo caption: Alexandra Monacelli (foreground), Noemi Garcia and Katrina Odrobina (background) teach Museum guests to plant a "Garden in a Glove" near the Farm Tech exhibit.
The Museum Changes Lives (the stories speak for themselves!)
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 8, 2009 12:15 PM
Science Achievers (part of the Science Minors youth development series) is one of our many programs that change lives every day. But the proof is in the stories, so let Chanel tell you in her own words:
The Museum's Science Minors and Achievers program has impacted me in so many ways. I never thought it would be this easy to go on to college. The program has helped me believe in myself and want to achieve different goals in life. It has also helped me try to find different colleges that are a good fit for me. Steven Willis [of the Museum staff] has been very supportive in helping us apply for colleges. We have been on different college tours to see which schools fit our majors.
In college, I want to study animals. The Museum has helped me start achieving that goal early, because we have worked with different types of medicines, and we have been researching a lot of cell types. The program has gotten me more interested in animals. We go out into the Museum and present things to guests that we have spent the time to learn. This gives us the opportunity to get real work experience. Science Achievers take on more responsibility because we realize that we are the future. We work hard to learn and complete college applications.The Museum has made a big impact on my life.
— Chanel Lavigne, Science Achiever
Help change lives! Make a gift to the Annual Fund and keep programs like Science Minors going strong.
The Museum Changes Lives (but don't just take our word for it!)
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Dec. 8, 2009 11:45 AM
It happens every day. The Museum of Science and Industry changes lives. A ten-year-old falls in love with chemistry. A teacher gets a little help explaining physics when we drop a water balloon from the balcony. Or a teen visits the Illinois Institute of Technology for a campus tour.
Science Achievers (part of the Science Minors youth development series) is one of the many programs that change lives every day. But the proof is in the stories, so let Kevin tell you in his own words:
For me, Science Minors has changed my life for the better. Before I came to the Museum, I didn't have the urge to do anything with my life. I didn't think about my future, because I didn't believe I really had one, but as time went on I got attached to the program [Science Minors.] I had more fun and got the motivation to want to go to college. At Science Minors, I feel as if I can be free to be me. I feel accepted and cared for because no matter what I'm going through, someone at the Museum is always there to help me out. Even when things are tough at home, the people in the program are there to help. I now feel as if I have a chance to survive in the world because MSI supplied me with the gifts of opportunity and lessons in life. That right there is the most valuable thing that I will cherish the most when I leave the program, because I don't know another group of individuals (teens and adults) that do so much for each other and even strangers that they meet.
Science Minors and Achievers are like a family to me. It feels as if I have known most of them forever. I've been here since 8th grade and I'm now a sophomore in high school. The program has molded me into a better person all around. Science Minors was like an answer to my prayers of getting away from the streets and into something that can improve my life so that I don't end up like so many other kids I know. I am so grateful for the program. Science Minors is my home away from home and will always come first in my life.
— Kevin Ambrose, Science Achiever
Help change lives! Make a gift to the Annual Fund and keep programs like Science Minors going strong.
Have a Heart - Ours Is 13 Feet Tall!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Sept. 9, 2009 11:45 AM
The Museum of Science and Industry has a big heart. You may have even seen it featured recently on NBC5 Chicago. If not, check out the video, “MSI Gets Heart Transplant,” on the NBC5 Chicago Web site. [Missing out on exciting MSI news? Connect with us online on Facebook and Twitter.]
The new 13-foot, 3-D Giant Heart beats in time with your own and invites you to explore any part of the heart, including blood vessels, blood flow and valves.
The new Giant Heart is part of YOU! The Experience, which opens on October 8 in Abbott Hall.
Brought to you through the generosity of Abbott, the Abbott Fund and the Pritzker Foundation. Additional major funding provided by J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family, Mazza Foundation, and Robert S. and Susan E. Morrison.
The Countdown Begins: YOU! The Experience in Abbott Hall
Posted By: Jerry Rice, Sept. 2, 2009 1:15 PM
We're officially less than six weeks away from the opening of YOU! The Experience, one of the first and largest exhibitions that showcases what it means to live a vital, healthy life in the 21st century while inviting you to experiment with more than 50 fun, cutting-edge and provocative interactive displays.
On your personal journey through the exhibit, you’ll get moving on a human-sized "Hamster Wheel," and see real-time feedback on your body’s response to activity. You’ll play a game of competitive relaxation and diagnose and treat medical conditions suffered by iSTAN®, the Human Patient Simulator, a computer-controlled, full-sized mannequin like those used to train today's medical students.
YOU! The Experience opens on October 8, 2009. Years in the making, there's nothing out there quite like YOU!
Check back soon for a closer look at some of the key features of YOU!
CDW Helps Museum Surprise Science Achievers
Posted By: Jerry Rice, June 30, 2009 2:05 PM
On Tuesday, June 9, graduating seniors in the Museum’s Science Achievers program got much more than they expected at the end of a special participant celebration for the Museum’s Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE).
“The Museum of Science and Industry is so proud of the hard work and dedication of all of our young scientists,” said Museum President and CEO David Mosena. “We want each of our graduates to know that you have inspired us. That’s why we’d like to support each of the graduating Science Achievers with a gift – a laptop computer, generously donated by CDW Corporation.”
“We at CDW are proud to support the Museum of Science and Industry in its important work to improve the quality of science education for students throughout Chicago,” said Sandy Pierantoni, senior program manager, community relations at CDW Corporation. “We are pleased to provide these graduating seniors with laptop computers to help them in their studies as they prepare to enter college. Whether or not they choose to pursue a scientific degree, I am confident that thanks to the Museum’s Science Achievers program, they will bring a healthy respect for scientific inquiry to bear on whatever profession they choose.”
The Museum thanks CDW for its generosity in addition to all of our donors, who help make CASE programs like Science Achievers possible.
“I’m a Scientist Because …” – CASE Event Celebrates Museum’s Science Rock Stars!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, June 11, 2009 4:35 PM
“I’m a scientist because I’m interested in a medical career and want to become a surgeon,” exclaimed Mariela Gentil.
“I’m a scientist because I want to improve life for all mankind,” added Cyle Colbert.
Mariela and Cyle are graduating high school seniors participating in our Science Achievers program. On Tuesday night, June 9, 2009, the Museum of Science and Industry and some of Chicago’s heavy hitters in education celebrated the achievements of graduating Science Achievers and teachers completing credentialed professional development coursework in our Institute for Quality Science Teaching. In addition to hearing words of encouragement from Ron Huberman, CEO of Chicago Public Schools, all 16 graduating seniors were invited to speak about their experiences onstage.
“I’m Nikita Bactee. I’m a scientist because I believe that every day is a new opportunity to discover and explore,” related one senior.
Emmanuel Horton plans to study electrical engineering at the University of Missouri. “I’m a scientist because I want to experiment with the unknown,” he told the crowd.
“At a time when schools face shrinking resources and growing demands, the Museum is helping to fill the gap by extending the inspirational and educational qualities of our exciting exhibits to help teachers become better science instructors,” said Andrea Ingram, the Museum’s vice president of education and guest services. “We’re also extending new opportunities to neighborhoods and communities through the Science Minors program, which reaches children and teens and encourages them to take a hands-on approach to science.”
We’ve heard from a Nobel Laureate, a NASA astronaut and more that the Museum helped inspire them to pursue science and achieve success. As part of Science Rediscovered, we are developing the Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE) to capture those moments of inspiration that kids get when they see our spectacular exhibits and help them pursue their newfound interests.
Personally, I’m a scientist because I like to solve problems and continue trying new solutions until I find one that works. With the Science Minors program and Institute for Quality Science Teaching, the Museum seems to have landed on some key solutions to the problem of inspiring a new generation of motivated science professionals. According to the words of our Science Achievers, we seem to be doing just that—and that’s music to my ears.
“I’m a scientist because I appreciate how the field of science has influenced me to become a veterinarian,” said Iris Muhammad.
Congratulations to Iris and all of the Science Achievers and teachers who took part in Tuesday night’s celebration of science rock stars! We all look forward to hearing about your future success.
Excited to Learn: Science Minors Clubs Family Day
Posted By: Jerry Rice, May 26, 2009 12:05 PM
“It’s kind of like learning from your big brother,” explained nine-year-old Sarah, a participant in the Museum’s after-school Science Minors Clubs, when asked about learning about frog dissection from Derrick Ayers, a high school student in the Science Achievers program. “I didn’t think I was going to like this, but it’s fun to see how everything works.”
That’s the whole point behind Family Day and the Science Minors series in general. Younger kids learn from their peers and from older students. The older students get lots of practice explaining and presenting in a low-pressure environment – they can make mistakes and learn how to correct themselves and keep on going. All of them – more than 5,000 students across the three levels of the Science Minors series – get exposure to fun, hands-on science experiences and careers in science, technology, medicine and engineering.
“I want to be a neonatologist,” said Sandi Coffee, a high school student in the Science Achievers program. [Neonatology is the branch of pediatrics that deals with the care of newborn infants – don’t worry, I didn’t know that either!] “I like working with kids, and I want to be there when they are born—and make sure they are doing fine.”
On Saturday, May 8, participants in the Science Minors Clubs were invited to the Museum for Family Day to share their experiences with their parents and to work on hands-on science experiences with the older Science Minors and Science Achievers students. One student described the experience in one word, “Awesome!” Others were too focused on building a trebuchet (a type of catapult) and measuring the distance it could fling a ping pong ball to comment. I’ll chalk that up to a successful event!
As part of the Museum’s Center for the Advancement of Science Education, the Science Minors series is an important tool that helps us inspire the next generation of inventors and innovators. We’re looking forward to the day when we hear from the first astronaut to step foot on the surface of Mars and she shares, “You know, I’ve dreamed of this moment since I was ten years old, and it was the Museum of Science and Industry that inspired me to dream big!”
Science Rediscovered Campaign Update
Posted By: Jerry Rice, May 4, 2009 2:45 PM
As of April 2009, we have raised $153,737,624 toward our $205-million goal for the Science Rediscovered campaign. In what can be described as one of the most difficult times to raise money in recent history, support for our campaign is holding strong thanks to our vision, a strategic plan with real community impact, a committed Board of Trustees, and donors who believe in that we’re doing. In this challenging economic environment, there is a growing realization that innovation is the key to America’s future economic prosperity, and our vision is to inspire the next generation of inventors, innovators and thinkers.
As we have stated all along, we are doing much more than building new exhibitions. We are taking a stand for quality science instruction across the Chicago region and beyond. We continue to lead a citywide effort to make Chicago’s science resources accessible to families and classrooms through Science Chicago: Life’s a Lab. We take science straight to the community through our Science Minors after-school science clubs, which now reach 57 sites and nearly 5,000 students. We train teachers through in-depth workshops that help them raise the level of science instruction in their classrooms. And, of course, we inspire children with our incredible exhibit experiences.
We have a ways to go to reach $205 million. It may take time to get there. But with the donor support we have and the momentum we are building for our cause, we are confident that we will achieve the financial goal that will ensure the successful implementation of the Science Rediscovered blueprint. We work hard to make every dollar count, and we appreciate the support of our generous donors.
More than Exhibits … Tools to Teach and Inspire
Posted By: Jerry Rice, April 24, 2009 10:34 AM
Our process for building new exhibitions involves much more than just building things that bring people to the Museum. We work to make sure that when we invest in a new exhibit, it teaches fundamental principles of science, provides hands-on ways to have fun and interact, and allows the staff in our Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE) to take full advantage of each exhibit to teach students and provide professional development opportunities to teachers.
The Museum brings together the best and the brightest—advisory committees comprised of science, education and design experts—to inform exhibit development. We’re proud to have world-renowned doctors, teachers, cave explorers, astronauts and physicists as part of our team. We also engage education experts from CASE to help us align the exhibit experiences with the science principles that students are expected to learn in school. And last but not least, we prototype the exhibits and invite families and youth advisory panels to test our ideas and tell us what they like—and what they don’t. And we continue to refine our ideas until the very moment we open a new exhibit to the public.
The process doesn’t stop there. Exhibits will continue to be refreshed and updated once they’ve opened to provide guests with the most current, cutting-edge science content. For example, in September, we debuted Fast Forward … Inventing the Future. Families and students on field trips are drawn into several interactive experiences, including talking to Zeno, a Conversational Character Robot designed by robotics engineer David Hanson. Guests also view a vertical farm and play an interactive game that teaches them about the possibilities of urban agriculture. And as new discoveries are made and new inventions debuted, the Fast Forward gallery will incorporate these new ideas and feature new innovators for our guests. An advisory committee is now being formed to help the Museum identify and select new innovations to feature in the exhibit.
In addition to providing great experiences for guests, Fast Forward also serves as a teaching tool for CASE. Middle-school teachers attend professional development workshops at the Museum, and our facilitators use Fast Forward’s vertical farm and Reactable (see image above) to help them understand science principles involved in everyday activities, such as the way sound travels in waves.
Learn more about our future exhibitions, including YOU! The Experience, which opens later this year:
YOU! The Experience
Science Storms
Explore: Blue Planet • Red Planet
VP Andrea Ingram Brings ‘Inspire and Motivate’ Message to D.C.
Posted By: Jerry Rice, March 4, 2009 11:10 AM
Last Thursday morning, Andrea Ingram, our vice president of education and guest services, took our vision to inspire a new generation of innovators straight to lawmakers in Washington, D.C. She testified before a Congressional subcommittee in a hearing titled “Beyond the Classroom: Informal STEM Education.”
“America’s social and economic future depends on new generations of scientists who can sustain our legacy of innovation and science leadership,” said Ingram. “It is critical that we support students, teachers and families as we work to advance science education and inspire a new generation of scientists.”
Ingram joined a small panel of witnesses to discuss the role of informal environments, like the Museum, in promoting learning in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). There is growing consensus that improving STEM education is critical to our nation’s economic strength and global competitiveness. The current economic climate underscores the importance of successful innovation to a strong economy for future generations of Americans.
“The timing is critical,” Ingram told Chicago Public Radio’s Lynette Kalsnes before the hearing. “With the weak economy, the U.S. needs to focus on innovation.”
Ingram highlighted the Museum’s bold plans to inspire and motivate our children to achieve their full potential in scientific fields and achieve breakthroughs that change the world. Our Center for the Advancement of Science Education trains teachers and supports students by making science fun, exciting and accessible. We are developing spectacular new exhibits with local and national science learning standards and school curricula informing the design process. Our work with universities, schools and national labs through Science Chicago: Life’s a Lab is helping us make Chicago’s wealth of science resources accessible to the public and creating lasting partnerships among organizations that will continue to serve Chicago.
We were honored to participate. We are pleased that our hard work, along with the support we receive for Science Rediscovered, is helping to spread the word that organizations like ours can be a strong force for positive change in a critical area like STEM education.
A Hands-on Green Revolution!
Posted By: Jerry Rice, February 13, 2009 3:28 PM
Hands-on science experiments are at the heart of what we do at the Museum every day. We learn by having fun!
Last weekend, children at the Museum got their hands dirty as they used indigo powder and other natural products to create their own tie-dyed handkerchiefs as part of the Museum’s annual Black Creativity program. This year’s exhibit, Green Revolution, focuses on green technology and innovation and introduces you to African-American architects, engineers, designers and business leaders involved with the green movement. More than 1,500 people turned out for Black Creativity Family Day last Saturday.
This weekend will offer even more exciting opportunities to participate in activities surrounding the Green Revolution exhibit. On Saturday, drop in for some fun recycled paper-making activities, attend one of two panel discussions on eco-centric research and sustainability, or brush up on your green knowledge with a “mini-course.” Check out the full schedule of events here!
In our effort to inspire the next generation of scientists, we continuously develop new and exciting science activities that are both fun and educational. This coming weekend is Valentine’s Day, and we have some fun Valentine’s Day activities planned. On Saturday, February 14, continue the “green” theme and make a recycled paper Valentine from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. or create heart-shaped “loveflakes” from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
As always, you can support these great programs by making a gift to the Museum’s Annual Fund today!
Imagine. Invent. Inspire.
Posted By: Jerry Rice, February 5, 2009 3:19 PM
Peek behind the scenes as we transform our Museum from top to bottom!
Welcome to the official blog for Science Rediscovered, our campaign to inspire the next generation of inventors, innovators and thinkers!
Most people see the Museum as a building with a collection of amazing objects and exciting hands-on exhibits. And they’re right! But we are much more than that. We are truly a mission-driven non-profit organization, and our spectacular exhibitions are just one component of our efforts to realize our vision: to inspire and motivate our children to achieve their full potential in the fields of science, technology, medicine and engineering.
To achieve our goal, we developed Science Rediscovered, a campaign to raise $205 million, and our effort to reenergize the Museum of Science and Industry from top to bottom. We are:
• Transforming more than 90% of our exhibit space through new exhibits and exhibit renewal projects.
• Developing our Center for the Advancement of Science Education to improve the quality of science teaching and directly inspire students.
• Creating a more dynamic guest experience, including a new, interactive Web site, improvements to the building and more.
• Leading the year-long Science Chicago: Life’s a Lab celebration in partnership with more than 140 other organizations.
Where did we get all the great ideas? We invited brilliant people from all over the country to help us brainstorm, create plans and test our ideas. We included a Nobel Laureate, teachers, NASA astronauts, Disney Imagineers, civic leaders and even children. The results are breathtaking—our plans are coming to life every day here at the Museum and at locations across the city.
This blog will give you a peek behind the scenes as we build the exhibits, experiences and programs transforming the Museum. Come back often for new updates—or if you can’t wait, you can begin by exploring our Web site at sciencerediscovered.org!
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about the museum
The Museum of Science and Industry opened its doors in 1933 and is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere.