This blog was written by Harshika Chenchu, a participant of the Monroe Science Center Teen Volunteer program.
National Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) week is celebrated from March 14 to 23.
In a world that’s driven by innovation, STEM is the first step towards progress. Whether it's curing diseases or our digital experiences, STEM influences almost every aspect of our daily lives. STEM has been a big part of the human civilization early on. Ancient Egyptians used early mathematical systems to build pyramids and irrigation systems, and ancient Greeks used math to establish foundational theories. STEM heavily influenced our society during the Renaissance era, a time that sparked interest in science and discoveries, laying the groundwork for modern STEM fields. The industrial revolution brought about discoveries such as engines, mechanical transportation, electricity, and the telegraph. STEM continues to play an important role in society. Advances in STEM fields influence medicine, healthcare, and new and innovative technologies. STEM also influences our culture, as it guides us on how to create a sustainable future for ourselves in the economy, government, and environment.
As society continues to evolve, so does STEM. Fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space exploration are expanding rapidly. STEM may be about science and numbers, but it can involves so much more, such as curiosity, innovation, and discovery. With STEM week coming up, there is no better time to dive in and explore the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and math.
There are many activities to engage in STEM even from home! Here are some exciting at home projects that can spark curiosity and creativity:
- Make a baking soda and vinegar volcano
- Fill a cup with a spoonful of baking soda. Next, add a few drops of food coloring and dish soap. Then, pour in vinegar to make the mixture foam up and flow out of the cup. This simulates a volcanic eruption, and it demonstrates the way lava flows out of a volcano.
- Make a DIY catapult
- Code a simple game at home
Join us at the Monroe Science Center for a STEM activity on Thursday, March 20, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.!