On March 20th, the Earth experienced a rare moment of perfect balance between day and night—an astronomical event known as the Equinox. This natural phenomenon serves as a powerful symbol of equity, reminding us of the importance of fairness, inclusion, and human rights in our world. Inspired by this theme of balance, the Road-STEAMer project in collaboration with the Astronomical Society of Malta  took part in a global movement, joining 134 simultaneous events worldwide to celebrate Equal Day.

Engaging Students with Interactive Science Workshops

At St Clare College Dun Anton Manchè Gżira Primary School, students were invited to engage in interactive activities and discussions about the Earth’s rotation, the day-night cycle, and our solar system. The event aimed to foster scientific curiosity and encourage critical thinking, empowering students to understand the intricate balance that governs our planet. In addition to this, the Road-STEAMer Project contributed to the event’s educational impact with its innovative approach to science education.

Furthermore, at St. Joseph School 48 students were introduced to an engaging, hands-on Astronomy workshop. Simeona Mamo from the Road-STEAMer Project presented the students with Pluto, an AI character they had developed. The young learners used tablets to interact with Pluto, discovering why this celestial body is so sad. Can you guess why Pluto is sad? The children were encouraged to think creatively and design their own planet, adding a personal touch to the lesson.

The workshop also allowed students to observe the Sun through a telescope, giving them a firsthand experience of scientific discovery. The Road-STEAMer team is currently developing a 40-minute Astronomy workshop aimed at assessing student engagement, motivation, and learning effectiveness. The lesson plan includes:

• Pluto AI Character: Students ask questions about Pluto using the AI app.
• Where is Pluto?: Students play a solar system card game using a craft model.
• Make a friend for Pluto: Students design their own dwarf planet using materials like styrofoam balls and paint.

By tapping into the students’ creativity and imagination, the Road-STEAMer Project hopes to foster passion for science in children of all ages. The project, which is funded by Horizon Europe, is designed to inspire the next generation of scientists through fun and engaging learning experiences.

Equal Day was not just a lesson in astronomy—it was a call to action for a more just and inclusive society. Just as nature finds harmony in the changing of seasons, so too must we strive for balance in our communities, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

This event was part of a broader effort to promote science education and public engagement. For those interested in exploring more about science and its role in shaping our world, the upcoming Science in the City festival offers a unique opportunity to dive into various scientific concepts through hands-on experiences.

Do you want to know more about innovative STEAM activities like this?

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