Techniquest

About...

Know as one of the longest established science centres in the United Kingdom, techniquest offers a range of scientific exhibits to its visitors. It was first built/open in 1985 by Professor John BeetleStone from Cardiff University. Any exhibits the centre has used, is built at their own workshops and has also been known for building and selling exhibits to other science centres worldwide. 

How do techniquest relate to education?

The centre offers a wide range of exhibits for the children to explore and experiment. Techniquest bases their exhibits on child centred learning which can support students through their education even secondary phase and now even visit schools. Exhibits and  programmes are designed and advised particularly to appropriately suit the age of the students visiting. The centre ranges it's exhibits to offer students a unique experience in subjects such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics. 

Secondary

Adapted to relate maths with the 21st century and technology being used by the youth of today. Looks into statistics and binary code, explores mathematics in ways you haven't thought about. As well as younger visitors, secondary students get to explore the planetarium and science theatre, these are adapted to suit an higher education. The science experiment would be based on chemistry, where as the planetarium would use higher level of understanding and knowledge.

Science Theatre 

Viewers get a front row seat on a scientific or mathematical experiment which will get you thinking through the task or problem by producing ideas and solutions. Interaction, is main part of this show, the professor gets the viewers involved by discussion and participation. To show that viewers have fully understood what they just experienced, they are encouraged to reflect upon the knowledge their just achieved, by filling out question/information sheets and participating in a group summary discussion.

Planetarium

Modified to suit the ability, knowledge and age of the viewer, planetarium is a new feature at the centre which will educate students and young visitors on the stars, planet and galaxies. The video will intrigue its viewers as it gives an insight on astronomy and cosmology, learning about constellations and myths which are behind them, a subject which is not well know about.  

Experience

As a child, at least one of my lower primary school trips a year were spent at Techniquest, I remember feeling as if I was in a giant playground with interesting yet sometimes confusing puzzles which left me amazed and intrigued. My favourite being the shadow box. On my last visit with the school, I got to experience the science theatre, I remember being given a questionnaire on the way in and feeling as if I had to listen intently to every word the professor said otherwise I wouldn't be able to answer it. 

Returning now Im older, I still felt amazed by some of the exhibits but not so confused.

 Techniquest is a great way of learning through exploration using thought processes, problem solving and ideas to understand the science behind the exhibits. whatever the age and no matter how old some of the exhibits Techniquest still excite and intrigue you despite how many times you visit.

References

http://www.techniquest.org