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Wittenberg Saturday Science is an outreach program started last year that exposes area high school and home-schooled students to science and its many possibilities. Eight academic departments – biology, chemistry, computer science, geography, geology, mathematics, physics and psychology – are collaborating on the program, which is scheduled to run once a month during the school year.
Each program features a public presentation by a Wittenberg faculty member on an accessible science topic, likely something outside the typical high school curriculum. After a continental breakfast in the David L. Hobson Atrium, students then take part in a science experience led by current Wittenberg students and their professors.
"We are very happy with how the program started. Last semester brought more than 60 students to Wittenberg from 15 different area schools," said Adam Parker, assistant professor of mathematics. "Feedback from both parents and students has been positive. We look forward to continuing to reach out to area students and show them the beauty and usefulness of science."
Williams' presentation will discuss plasmas, the most common and least known naturally occurring state of matter in the visible universe. In particular, this talk will describe the many places where plasmas occur and the impact that they have on everyday life.
"Most people are not even aware of this state of matter and less than 30 percent of states have plasmas listed as part of their science curriculum," Williams said. "I am looking forward to introducing this ubiquitous state of matter and showing how it impacts the everyday life of all us."
Wittenberg Saturday Science is funded by a grant from Future Jobs, a regional workforce development program. Wittenberg is a partner with Future Jobs, and University President Mark H. Erickson is a member of its board of directors.
The 2009-10 Wittenberg Saturday Science program continues in January with a presentation by Associate Professor of Mathematics William Higgins. Presentations were made during the spring 2009 semester by Parker, Associate Professor of Psychology Michael Anes, Assistant Professor of Chemistry Ray Dudek and Assistant Professor of Biology Michelle McWhorter. Fall presentations in the 2009-10 school year have been made by Professor of Geology and Chair of the Department John Ritter, Assistant Professor of Computer Science Steven Bogaerts and Assistant Professor of Geography Andrew Scholl.
There is no cost to participate in Wittenberg Saturday Science, and the public is welcome to attend the lecture portion. However, space is limited for the hands-on experience. To register for the event, go to http://www.wittenberg.edu/science-outreach. For more information, e-mails can be sent to science-outreach@wittenberg.edu.
Written by: Ryan Maurer
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