Learning looks like this at UNC Charlotte's Science and Technology Expo

More than 3,000 kids and adults filled the mall near UNC Charlotte’s student union last spring for the Science and Technology Expo. People should have twice the fun at this year’s Expo, 10-2 next Sunday, since there will be twice the activities! Robots, rockets and chemical reactions will take center stage at more than 100 hands-on presentations and displays.

With so much to do, how can young scientists get the most out of the Expo? Read on for advice from Expo expert Jim Hathaway, who helped plan the event.

Who will get the most out of the Science and Technology Expo?

Jim: The Expo is primarily of interest to families, as a significant part of the activities are educational activities aimed at getting kids engaged in science and technology activities. We do, however, have a significant number of late high school and college-age kids coming to our Expo events because a number of the things we present are simply cool to people of all ages.

We get adults who really want to talk to a scientist/technologist to find out “how does that work?” and some really bright young children who know way beyond their years and really like talking to people working at their level.

The Expo will offer many hands-on activities, like using lasers

Are there any popular exhibits from last year that will be at the show this year?

Jim: Robots are always popular, and we have a greatly expanded robotics section this year, featuring all kinds of cool, self-operating machines. “Combustion chemistry” is also always popular – everyone loves seeing/hearing something big blow up.

Which exhibits will be of particular interest?

Jim: We also will have a high-altitude balloon, a concrete canoe (that floats just fine), one of UNC Charlotte’s racecars from Motorsports Engineering, and lots of ecology and biology.

Why are they looking up? To watch the rocket they just fired, of course!

The show will have 100 exhibits. Clearly people can’t see them all. What would be the best way for people to get the most out the day, especially if they have young children?

Jim: Wander around, and see what attracts the kids. They know what they like. You may discover they have interests you didn’t know they had.

What does UNC Charlotte get out of holding this event? Are people surprised to learn how much our university has to offer?

Jim: We get to connect with the community one-to-one, and the scientists get to show off. They are researchers, but they are also teachers and they really like to interest the public in what they do.

We have had amazing public response the past two years we have done this. It’s part of the reason why we keep trying to do more.

Of course you want to go!

The third annual Science and Technology Expo will take place 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, April 13, on the lower campus mall, facing the Student Union. The Expo is free and will feature presentations and displays developed by the UNC Charlotte science faculty, covering fields such as engineering, computer software, robotics, the environment and life sciences.

• Food – will be available to buy at the event and at the nearby student union.
• Free parking – is available during the Expo at the nearby Student Union parking deck.
• Explore the campus – Visitors may also stroll the campus and tour the UNC Charlotte botanical gardens.
• Maps – A variety of maps are available here  >> GO
• Expo website  >> GO
• Phone: 704-687-5743