Demo Session 7: The role of Science Centers in education

14:30 -16:00 (Johannesburg timetable) | In-person Session

Sci-Bono is the largest Science Centre in the Southern Hemisphere, established in 2004 for promoting STEAM education. South Africa has 35 accredited Science Centres, but their role in promoting equitable access to ISE is under scrutiny compared to formal classroom education. This demonstration aims to showcase the powerful impact that Science Centres can have on STEAM education, enhancing and enriching classroom learning. It serves as a testament to the engaging and interactive learning environments that science centres create, inspire and foster the pursuit of STEAM careers. Extensive research was conducted to gather information on the importance of science centers in promoting STEAM education, as well as to understand the specific initiatives and programs offered by Sci-Bono Discovery Centre. This research helped in identifying key elements and examples to be included in the demo. The narrative for the demo was crafted in a storytelling format to engage the audience and create a cohesive flow. It was designed to take the audience on a journey, starting with an introduction to STEAM education and gradually showcasing the different sections and activities at Sci-Bono Discovery Centre. Careful selection of examples and case studies was made to highlight the impact of Sci-Bono Discovery Centre’s programs and initiatives. These examples were chosen to demonstrate the practical application of STEAM education, showcasing real-world projects and success stories. The demo was designed to be interactive, incorporating hands-on activities, demonstrations, and visuals wherever possible. This approach helps to engage the audience, making the demo more immersive and impactful. The demo is a collaborative effort involving input from various stakeholders, including educators, researchers, and experts from Sci-Bono Discovery Centre. This collaborative approach ensures that the demo accurately represents the work being done at the center and effectively communicates its mission and impact. Whis this demo session, it will be demonstrated that through science communication and engagement, students are inspired to pursue Steam subjects. The session will also place science centres prominently in stimulating innovation and scientific inquiry. Science centers have an important role in promoting STEAM education, specifically the case of Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in South Africa.

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Prof. Mfanelo P. Ntsobi

Sci-Bono Discovery Centre (ZA)