Hello,
I have always favored teaching science by showing how amazing it all is. I think a student doing a science fair project should get a chance to find excitement of discovery, challenge of figuring things out, and pride of accomplishment. Kids respond to the amazing side of science without much help, it’s getting the science fair project finished that is difficult.
I started helping with Science Fairs many, many, many years ago. I have noted the BEST science fair projects are the ones done by students that were fired-up and interested in their topic. These young scientists wanted to do their best. Once their topic captures their imagination, then their science fair project becomes interesting and a lot more fun. When this happens, they can learn things we cannot teach. As a science fair judge, it was easy to spot when this combination came together.
Today’s young scientists have an overwhelming amount of information available. It can lead to confusion and frustration. Many students run into trouble when their science fair study drifts away from their project goal. They may need help keeping their study efforts going in a direction that develops their ideas into a proper science fair project. (That’s where you come in as parent and teacher.) Once the project gets properly defined and underway, the students creativity and understanding begins to blossom. It is great fun for everyone when the project goes this way.
Responding to many parent requests over the last few years, we started making water test kits for science fairs available over our website sciencefaircenter.com. Our goal is to make the Science Fair Project experience fun and educational or educational and fun for everyone involved. We offer ideas, guides and kits that help you and your young scientist enjoy the science fair process. ScienceFairCenter.com has received several Family Friendly Site certifications (listed below).
My hope is sciencefaircenter.com, with your input, becomes a favorite website to guide students, parents, and teachers through the steps involved in good science. We have several innovative concepts that will be included on the website during upcoming months.
Please email me with your thoughts, questions, and comments. I will try to make this site responsive to your needs. Come back and check us out.
Gordon Snyder, Ph.D.
Director
ScienceFairCenter.com
gs@sciencefaircenter.com
