It can be difficult to maintain the interests of students. Doing so requires the proper tactics. The discipline of science is no exception. Making science more appealing to students often requires a hands-on approach that involves experimentation and scientific equipment. The task can become quite expensive. We will take a look at four budget-friendly ways to make science more appealing to students. One way is to engage the students in hands-on experiments. Students are more interested in doing than they are simply absorbing facts. Another way is to find the proper experiment in which to involve them. The type of experiment chosen can dictate whether or not the students enjoy participating in the activity. Thirdly, use technology with which they are familiar. Finding new ways to use familiar items can help ease them into learning new concepts. Finally, be sure to have the proper equipment for classroom experiments. Having the proper equipment is important to be able to replicate and experiment.
1. Engage the Student in Hands-On Experiment
Students learn best with hands-on experience. Rather than showing a film or movie, or simply recanting facts, involve the students in actual experiments. It will give them a sense of control and make them want to pay attention because they are actively participating in the experiment. Using everyday household supplies or inexpensive solutions can be a cheap way to get them involved and provide an understanding of how some products work together.
2. Find the Proper Experiment
Science becomes more appealing with the right type of experiment. It is not enough to simply rehash plain everyday experiments. The reaction between baking soda and vinegar is no longer enough to maintain the attention of students. If possible, engage the students in experiments that involve awe-inspiring chemical reactions. Chemical reactions can cause combinations of reactants to catch fire, pop, fizz, and other things that students tend to think of as “cool”. Experiments that produce vibrant colors or slime can also elicit positive responses. Again, get creative with household products that work safely together to create budget-friendly experiments.
3.Use Existing Technology
Another budget-friendly way to make science more appealing to students is to use existing technology. Use apps for smartphones, tablets, and computers to collect scientific data. This involves students using technology with which they are already familiar and it does not require the purchase of new equipment.
4. Have the Proper Equipment for Classroom Experiments
Finally, be sure to have the proper equipment for classroom experiments. Microscopes, beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, litmus papers, and Bunsen burners, are all key pieces of equipment for a science-ready classroom. Fume hoods, counters and sinks, and workbenches are also essential pieces of lab furniture. Ensuring that you have the proper equipment is a good way to get students involved. It gives them new tools with which to work and learn, and the novelty of new equipment can help to maintain their attention.
Science for students at all levels can be fun and inexpensive. All it requires is a little creativity. Combined with the proper methods of experimentation and the proper equipment, science can entertain students for months at a time.