A large part of science is gaining a better understanding of the world through curiosity and questions guided by words like Why? How come? What if? Does…?
“How are brain freezes caused,” was this project’s question.
Curiosity took on a physical form this week when the Cariboo Regional Science Fair was held at the TRU gym on Thursday and Friday. In all, participation involved 219 students from grades four through 12 and from four school districts.
Everyone received a participants medal, with others getting trophies and still others earning an expenses-paid trip to the Canadian championships, May 15-20, in Regina.
Among those unable to wipe the grin off their face was TRU Dean of Science Tom Dickinson. In helping present medals and recognitions, he offered words of encouragement for every one of them.
“Cat and Dog Behaviours: Problems and Best Practices” was the title of this project.
“I was so excited to see so many wonderful projects that had a huge amount of work put into them. These kids and projects are our future and I want to acknowledge that many of them wouldn’t have been possible without the assistance and guidance of parents, teachers and other supporters,” said Dickinson.
“They’re all scientists and it’s a frame of mind to understand that not all the answers are readily available, but if you use an honest and rigorous method, you can find answers to almost everything,” said Dickinson. “I’m pleased to see there’s a large number of students in this region who are so keen on science.”
Students tackled a range of questions from those concerning music and its affects, their pets, health, the environment and technology as it is today and what it will be in the near future with self-driving vehicles being one example.
TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Alan Shaver gave a short address, saying, “we want passion, we want curiosity and we want you to have the drive to solve your questions. You’ve shown that drive in this tremendous display of projects. Thank you for doing this and I’m particularly pleased that you competed fairly and evenly and that you did it at TRU.”
BC Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon also said words of encouragement and encouraged students to keep exploring, asking questions and to keep their curiosity sharp, “because these are the kinds of projects we’re going to need. We’re going to need you to come up with the the great improvements to deal with the changes in our climate.”
