Students lab up experiment with science

Budding scientists aged six to 12 took over the Stirling Street Arts Centre at the weekend to experiment with robotics, learn about microbiology and chat to an astrophysicist.

Hosted by the West Australian Foundation for Deaf Children’s, “Meet the Scientists – Sign Me Up!” was an Auslan interpreted event for deaf and hard of hearing children and their families.

Throughout the day the children met with four scientists from different backgrounds, learnt about their field of expertise and took part in hands-on activities.

“Each scientists had a mini presentation where they introduced their science to the children,” WA Foundation for Deaf Children fundraising and marketing project officer Claudia Hundloe said.

“Dr Rina Fu, the microbiologist, had a pH testing experiment, Tane Pendragon, the engineer, had different robots for the kids to have a go at — which was very popular.

“There were also worms and other parasites in jars to look at and lots of cool items with bubbles, magic sand and colouring.”

Ms Hundloe said the event was a great way to host deaf role models and cool scientists in the same place.

“We really wanted to inspire these kids and make them aware that a career in science is obtainable for them and allow them to try new things,” she said.