358 students experience the “magic” in science during 2024 NYSTIFMary Crystalline T. Araracap
On 18 September 2024, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Science High School Systems (DOST-PSHS) hosted “STEM Magic” as part of the 2024 National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF) at the Philippine International Convention Center Forum Tent in Pasay City. This interactive activity was organized by teachers and selected students from Ilocos, CALABARZON, and Bicol Regional Campuses.
A total of 358 students from various schools, including DOST-PSHS (Main Campus), Villamor Airbase Elementary School, Don Bosco, Andres Bonifacio Elementary School, Jose Rizal Elementary School, Timoteo Paez Elementary School, Padre Garcia Elementary School, and Padre Zamora Elementary School, participated in hands-on experiments and demonstrations related to physics, technology (robotics), and chemistry. The goal was to engage and inspire the participants to explore the “magic” in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and consider pursuing careers in these fields in the future.
The STEM Magic is divided into three batches, each exhibitor will accommodate 50 students for 20 minutes, before transferring to other experimentations.Physeek de Soleil
Science Enthusiasts for the Enhancement of Knowledge (SEEK), led by Katherin G. Leal, is an independent student-led organization from PSHS-CALABARZON. They organized a show where Wago, Winona, and Wila needed to find a missing key with the help of the participants. The show featured interactive displays including (1) Oobleck, which presents non-Newtonian fluids through the suspension of starch in water, (2) Equilibrium Trick, demonstrating the balance and equilibrium of regular and irregular shapes such as a spoon and fork, and (3) Lazer Maze, which revolves around the concept of the Law of Reflection exhibited by light.
Micro-Factory Robotics
The PSHS-Bicol Regional Campus students, Andrew Gabriel B. Broncano and Zach Mikael A. Ros, demonstrated a micro-factory to show how kids can learn computational thinking and problem-solving skills, which is vital in today’s era of continuous industrial revolution. The PSHS aims to teach young minds how to integrate robotics and Artificial Intelligence, especially in automation and coding processes. These are part of the Internet of Things (IoT), which involves devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet.
Colorful Reaction in Chemistry
Scholars from PSHS-Ilocos Regional Campus supervised various chemistry experiments, including:
1. Vocal Alchemy – breathing in helium to create funny sounds
2. Blood typing – conducting blood chemistry tests
3. Lava Lamp – demonstrating the differing densities of oil and water
4. Chemical Chameleon – showing a redox reaction resulting in a color change
5. pH Kaleidoscope – exploring the pH of acids and bases
6. Fake Blood Experiment – demonstrating a chemical reaction that produces a blood red iron complex.
Teacher Franz Jeramienne B. Lacangan supervised the experiments intending to increase interest in the upcoming National Campaign for Entrance Examination of PSHS and alleviate students’ fear of chemistry. She noted that visitors actively engaged in the discussions and were able to explain the science behind the experiments.
Grade six student Johan Stephen Casao of Timoteo Paez Elementary School enjoyed the technology section, which described how factories properly store food and boxes before delivering them to groceries and supermarkets. His teacher, Dr. Fe P. Dagon, said that this event was beneficial for the students, especially beginners, as it gave them the idea that they could also conduct these experiments in their classes and upcoming events.
For James Kyle T. Bartolome, a grade six student at Rizal Elementary School, this event opened his mind to science, making it the most interesting and fun subject because of the activities. He found the robotics section fascinating since it showcased the inner workings of his father’s job as an Electrical Engineer. Mr. Dionne P. Bacaycay, a dedicated teacher, emphasized the importance of involving public school students in engaging in science activities. He highlighted the need to showcase various branches of science enjoyably, considering the limited scope of experiments at the elementary school level. Mr. Bacaycay expressed his commitment to adapting his teaching methods to introduce students to hands-on science activities. His goal is to eventually enable students to conduct experiments themselves, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific principles.
STEM Magic was one of the many activities featured during the second-year conduct of the 2024 NYSTIF with the theme “STEM VIBE: Engaging the Youth in Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities” that ran from 18-21 September 2024 at the PICC Forum Tent, Pasay City. (PR)
Photos by Henry A. De Leon
