SCI-FI CAMPS

Posted June 02, 1998


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - JUNE 1, 1998
98-06-01-ENG

SCI-FI camps create lasting
impressions of science

If you are looking for something unique for your children
to do this summer while learning about science and
having fun, then SCI-FI Engineering Summer Science
Camps might be for you.

Run by students from the College of Engineering at the
University of Saskatchewan, SCI-FI uses hands-on
projects and activities to encourage kids to explore
engineering, sciences, computers and technology.

"SCI-FI was created to stimulate an interest in science
and technology among today's youth as well as to dispel
common myths about science such as 'science is boring'
or 'science is just for boys'," says Erin Taylor, SCI-FI
Coordinator. "Through hands-on activities and projects,
we aim to show kids that science is a part of their every
day lives and doesn't have to be taught out of a text
book."

The SCI-FI summer experience is split into two sessions.
During May and June, SCI-FI operates over 225
workshops in classrooms across Saskatchewan. The two
hour workshops which aim to give both teachers and
students a lasting impression of science and engineering
attract over 6000 students each year. This year,
workshops will be held in Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Swift
Current, and Moose Jaw as well as in many towns in
between.

During July and August, SCI-FI runs week long summer
day camps on the U of S campus for students in grades 4-
9. Each session is filled with fun, hands on projects such
as rockets, speakers, holograms, motorized cars, slime,
and jello labs just to name a few. Throughout the week ,
students are encouraged to explore science by doing, and
as a result, understanding. Students are given the
opportunity to build and test their own projects,
participate in interactive tours, solve problems and
witness dazzling scientific demonstrations.

In August, SCI-FI also will operate two satellite camps
for Aboriginal students in Buffalo Narrows and Beauval.
These camps give children who are too far away to come
to camp the opportunity to experience the program.

One of the oldest camps of its kind in Western Canada,
the SCI-FI program has been in operation since 1989
when it was first developed by students in the College of
Engineering.

To date, SCI-FI has reached over 30,000 Saskatchewan
students.


For more information, please contact:

Erin Taylor
SCI-FI Coordinator
(306) 966-7755