STEPHENVILLE — The Tarleton State University College of Science and Mathematics Mobile Discovery Lab held its inaugural tour in early May and hosted 484 students from first through 12th grade, serving the Lingleville, Hico, Gorman and Huckabay school districts.
The 44-foot outreach trailer was updated in the fall to help give children a unique learning experience, allowing them to discover more about topics in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It features seven interactive discovery stations designed collaboratively by the Science Mill in Johnson City and the Tarleton State College of Science and Mathematics. The learning space comfortably accommodates 25-30 students.
“The Mobile Discovery Lab is a wonderful resource that connects Tarleton STEM programs to our neighbors and surrounding communities,” said Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics Dr. Kevin B. Johnson. “The lab features cutting-edge displays and hands-on demonstrations that assist students in learning. It also provides an opportunity for Tarleton students and faculty to gain experience in science education and outreach.”
The activities on the trailer are themed around ecological remediation and sustainability for North Central Texas, including topics such as soil health, weather, native grasses, insects, rivers and aquaponics. The questions and information are adjusted based on the age group represented to make the topics more engaging and relevant.
“We are thrilled that the inaugural tour went so well,” said Assistant Director of the Timberlake Biological Field Station Dr. Victoria Chraibi. “The school districts were extremely welcoming to us, and the students and teachers were highly engaged in the activities and with our volunteers. We hope to do this on a regular basis and to continue to provide additional interactive learning experiences for students.”
Twelve dedicated volunteers, including representation from Tarleton State faculty and students and members of the Timberlake Biological Field Station team, collaboratively contributed over 196 volunteer hours over the course of four days, running the discovery stations, hosting visitors and answering and asking questions to encourage learning.
“I work for the biology department as a lab instructor, so volunteering for the Mobile Discovery Lab was right up my alley,” said Tarleton State graduate student Kayleigh Dotson-Singer. “I love doing outreach events, especially for younger generations. Seeing their eyes light up and knowing I was able to give them a new insight on science is my favorite part of being an educator.”
The tour was sponsored by the Texas Pioneer Foundation, which made it possible for the educational tool to be utilized with no cost to the school districts.
For more information about the Mobile Discovery Lab, email [email protected].A
Be the first to comment