Co-organizer Miriam Posner
From the climate clock to creepy crawlies
This year’s edition of the science fair will include displays by several departments in the Faculty of Arts and Science, including chemistry and biochemistry, biology, psychology and geography, planning and environment. Their displays include a remote camera display of underground tunnels to help wildlife cross the road safely and a climate change clock.
The Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science is also participating, with departments from computer science and software engineering to mechanical, industrial and aerospace engineering joining in the fun.
"Exposcience is a phenomenal opportunity for families to learn about an incredible diversity of scientific fields in a hands-on manner,” says Arun Dayanandan, president of the Biology Graduate Student Association.
“From tesla coils to creepy crawlies, workshops and info booths run by those in the field provide excitement for all."
Hala Youssef, president of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Graduate Student Association, agrees.
“Exposcience not only promotes science to youth, but it’s a fun way to learn,” she says.
“Often I've overheard parents telling their children that they can reproduce a particular experiment at home. That is the best part.”
Not all talk
Aaron Johnson is an associate professor of psychology in the Faculty of Arts and Science. His aim at this year’s fair is to show that psychology is more than getting people to sit on a couch and talk about their problems.
“By openly talking to the public and children about psychology, our department hopes to break down the stereotypes associated with the brain and mental health,” Johnson says.
In order to do this, he will be bringing examples of the types of research experiments that psychologists use, such as psychophysiology measures of heart rate and brain activity and how these are impacted by both physical and mental health.
A showcase for the community
Whether through discussing brain activity or climate change, science buffs of all ages will find ample opportunity to engage with university experts.
“Exposcience showcases the great work being done at Concordia,” Posner says. “It is an excellent way to bring the classroom and laboratories to the community.”
Call to action:
Find out more about the 34th edition of Concordia’s Exposcience, taking place November 11 to 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pointe-Claire Cultural Centre, Stewart Hall (176 Du Bord-du-Lac – Lakeshore Road).