THE Indian Science and Technology Exhibition which is currently being held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown has approximately 24 interactive exhibits showing how science is fun and enjoyable. Not only does this large-scale exhibition showcase the rich and diverse culture of India and its contribution to Science and Technology as a whole; but it also provides some form of ‘edutainment’ for the Guyanese children.
While reading plays a very important role in the lives of children, it must be duly noted that not all kids love to read. The exhibition does not only cater for the lovers of reading, with the myriad of information displayed on placards around the exhibition site, but also for the children who enjoy learning in a fun way.
From the 3D interactive models on display at the exhibition, the children are able to experience the fun aspect of learning, and hopefully find that ‘science is cool’.
One of the 3D models is the ‘Infinity Well’, which appears to be very deep, going down below the floor. However, this is not the case. The apparent depth of the well is due to an optical illusion. There are two parallel mirrors which create an optical illusion of great depth by successive reflections of light. These mirrors are a full mirror on the floor and a half mirror on top of the well. Young children viewing the infinity well at the exhibition were very fascinated.
Some of the other interactive models on display are the acrobatic stick, music in the air, visualizing sound, and the rising bubble. The children are being educated by these models and being entertained at the same time.
At the opening ceremony for the exhibition on Monday, August 20, 2012, President Donald Ramotar said he hoped the exhibition would stimulate interest in science and technology among Guyanese, especially students. He also noted that Government is working to re-establish the National Science and Technology Council in Guyana.
The exhibition will be hosted until September 30, and covers approximately 7,000 years of India’s history, and the global contribution that country has made to Science and Technology.