Come learn about robotics, genetics and physics at the ASMSA Science and Engineering Institute. The free classes will be held from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 1, at Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts in Hot Springs.
In the hands-on robotics class, participants will learn how to program a robot and use the robot to navigate obstacle courses and perform tasks. Students will learn how to leverage the robots’ on-board sensors to make the robots interact with their surrounding and become autonomous. ASMSA computer science teacher Nick Seward will teach this class.
Students in the genetics class will receive an interactive introduction to genetics and DNA followed by isolating the real thing from their own cheeks. Additionally, students will learn how forensic and molecular biologists visualize DNA using break-through electrophoresis biotechnology. ASMSA biology teacher Patrycja Krakowiak will teach this class.
In the physics class, students will learn about low-temperature physics and chemistry. Activities and demonstrations will include freezing flowers, onions, hot dogs and various other items. Participants also will have the opportunity to make ice cream with liquid nitrogen. As a grand finale, students will learn why pop bottles are named as such. ASMSA physics teacher Shane Thompson will teach this class.
The classes are open to students ages 11 to 15. At least one adult must accompany each student. Preregister at http://scienceandtechnologyweekend.eventbrite.com. Registration deadline is Sept. 26.
For more information about the ASMSA Science and Engineering Institute, call Stephanie Rizzo, ASMSA Marketing and Research Specialist, at 501-622-5133.