Making Science Demonstrations Effective

The benefits of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) education are vast and varied. It offers the next generation the chance to hone a wide scope of skills that will put them on the path to being able to pursue a career across a range of sectors.

And the numbers are encouraging. According to data released in early 2021 by UCAS, more students are enrolling in STEM courses at university than ever before. For example, those taking computer sciences have risen nearly 50%, while acceptances onto engineering degrees have increased by 21%.

All of which is positive news for those who are passionate about STEM subjects and want to see the younger generations harness the talent that is undoubtedly there. But not everyone revels in these areas of education and, if you’re a science teacher, that’s an issue you’ll be all-too familiar with. So, how can you make the most of your classroom demonstrations and encourage your students to become more engaged?

Why Demonstrate Rather than Encourage First-Hand Participation?

A great way to help your students learn is to allow them to try things for themselves. It’s true that practical sessions can have a far greater impact than sitting in silence copying notes from the board, but it’s not always feasible for your students to gain that hands-on experience.

For example, it might be that a particular experiment is too dangerous to be tried by the uninitiated, and allowing them to have a go might risk their safety – as well as those around them. Alternatively, it may be a question of resources. Scientific materials – such as the tools used for testing circuits – are not cheap, and if there is not enough to go around then it makes sense to demonstrate yourself rather than only allow a select few to participate.

While you do so, it offers the class the chance to ask any questions, which they may not feel is possible if they are concentrating on conducting the experiment themselves. And a demonstration can be used as pre-cursor to a more hands-on approach, where you explain the theory and provide a practical example before asking the students to follow your lead.

Tips for Making Your Demonstration Effective

When demonstrating, it’s important that you’re clear in the objectives of the exercise. This doesn’t necessarily mean predicting the outcome of the experiment itself – that should be left for the students to see for themselves – but explain beforehand what you want them to get out of the lesson.

Taking your time is also crucial. When talking about various instruments, what they are and how they work, the information will never sink in if you rush through your explanations. You should also assemble the students in a U-shape around you, so that everyone has an equal view, and ensure everyone within the vicinity is wearing the appropriate protective equipment, if required.