Don't be alarmed if you see children filing into Morrill Hall on a Sunday afternoon. No, they are not on a weekend field trip, they are just eager to spend an afternoon with a scientist.
The "Sunday with a Scientist" series is a program presented by the university museum in an effort to open Morrill Hall to the public and give Lincoln scientists an opportunity to display their knowledge to the community on the third Sunday of each month.
"This is part of our mission, to promote scientific inquiry and the science that's going on in our state," said Kathleen Ann French, Education Coordinator at the museum. "They may not be the museum people but it's still the current science and issues of today."
The program first started in 1987 under a slightly different name. However, as the years progressed, support and a change in focus led to a halt to the program until this year. Starting again in January, French said the response from various scientists willing to share their knowledge was overwhelming and they booked the year quickly.
During each monthly event, the presenting scientists set up tables in Morrill Hall with their research, information and hands-on activities for both children and the young-at-heart to examine.
"It's kind of an intimate opportunity to be one-on-one with someone who knows the sciences," French said. "It's interactive, but not intimidating."
The program is generally geared toward educating children and families, who are the ones most likely to take in such an event.
"Our events are family oriented because it's well received by the community, and Lincoln has always felt that family things are a good way to get out and have fun," French said.
On Sunday, April 18, the topic being presented is Endangered Species. Representatives from the Tern and Plover Conservation Partnership as well as the Nebraska Invasive Species Project will present a program centered on protecting animals and their habitat.
With the goals of education and awareness, the Nebraska Invasive Species Project is tailoring their message to a kid-dominated audience with the hopes of instilling their values in children.
"A better understanding of how important it is to preserve natural resources hopefully will connect with something that they like to do outdoors," said Karie Decker, coordinator for the Nebraska Invasive Species Project. "We want to show them it protects the areas that they enjoy."
Armed with posters, banners and displays, Decker and her team hope to engage the children in their displays and activities. Children will have the opportunity to build a replica of an invasive species as well as plant native seeds in a cup to take home.
"A big part of our management is to educate people that are using the resources in Nebraska as well as the next generation," Decker said. "It shows the importance of conserving our natural resources in Nebraska."
With the overarching theme of education, the museum will continue to partner with scientists in the Lincoln area to create an atmosphere that spurs thought and conversation among children and parents alike.
"It's been fun to visit with the people when they come through," French said. "The parents have been really responsive and pleased their kids are learning something, and it's not like school; they have fun too."
ashaanchan@dailynebraskan.com
Break Out Box:
Next Event: April 18, 1:30-4:30
Upcoming Topics:
May 16: Nebraska's Climate
June 20: Ponds and Toxic Algae
July 18: Poop!
August 15: Beetle Mania
September 19: Archeology
October 17: Ancient People
November 21: Native Americans
December 19: Nebraska Amphibians
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