Science Circus Pacific, Hands-on Online Workshop Booklet, Asia-Pacific

Abstract

Many students think science is something that happens in textbooks, which is sad because textbooks aren’t much fun. The result is bored unmotivated students who don’t learn as well – learning works best when it is fun and hands-on.

This booklet was compiled from the UNESCO Hands-on Online Asia Pacific 2021 workshop series. The activities presented here were submitted by participants of the program competition, or were presented by guest lecturers in the workshop series.

The activities here can be used directly with students as class activities, or used as demonstrations by teachers. Please note though, that some of these activities are more dangerous than others. Take extra care where CAUTION is noted. Some activities are not suitable for students to try themselves. This book contains a range of fun science activities and accompanying videos that can be done with everyday items – things that are either low-cost or free.

Science Circus Pacific’s approach to science learning draws on inquiry-based learning pedagogy and gives participants the opportunity to recognize the relevance of Science Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) to their everyday lives. We want students to work with their hands, collaborate and share ideas and importantly, test things out, learn from failures and innovate. We believe learning works best for students when it is fun and hands-on!