Talks & Demonstrations
Talks and panel discussions with experts across the STEAM disciplines
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Biology on Tap
Thursday, April 2, 7:00 - 9:00 PM at Michigan Wildlife Conservancy 6380 Drumheller Rd Bath Township, MI 48808
Appropriate for: Over 21 years only, 18 years and above
Brews, buds, and biology! Biology on Tap features talks by MSU researchers at local bars/pubs each month. Learn about science and interact with researchers by asking questions or chatting with them afterward. We also have a short trivia contest during intermission, and attendees who participate are entered to win raffle prizes at the end of the night!
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Experience Greenfest!
Presented at the following times:
Saturday, April 11, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM at Belle Isle Nature Center 176 Lakeside Dr Detroit, MI 48207
Sunday, April 12, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM at Belle Isle Nature Center 176 Lakeside Dr Detroit, MI 48207
Appropriate for: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, 18 years and above
Visit the Belle Isle Nature Center on Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12, for Greenfest! This free, family-friendly event is packed with exciting eco-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and opportunities to protect our planet. Dive into participatory science initiatives that help protect our waterways and connect with local conservation experts through engaging demonstrations that showcase the power of sustainability. Don’t miss this chance to go green!
What to Expect:
- Sustainability education stations
- Nature hikes
- Eco-friendly arts and crafts
- Conservation presentations
- An Michigan State University BioBlitz
- Beekeeper talks
- And much more!
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Game Show: So You Want to Be a Scientist!
Saturday, April 11, 12:00 - 12:45 PM at STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Workshop Stage
Appropriate for: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, 18 years and above
Join us for a popular quiz-style game show that asks questions like: “How are science skills useful?” and “What can I do in science careers?” The answers will surprise you! Of course, there will be fabulous prizes for our contestants!
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Searching for Seaweed in the Fossil Record
Saturday, April 11, 1:00 - 1:45 PM at STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Workshop Stage
Appropriate for: Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, 18 years and above
Most of the fossil record is dominanted by hard parts including bones, teeth, and shells. However, seaweed or macroscopic algae do not have any hard parts and do not leave behind fossils in most enviornments. Rare seaweed fossils can be found in special places around the world where they provide an important window into understanding ancient ecosystems. Come see and learn about one of the first seaweed fossils that lived in oceans almost 1 billion years old. We will explore the role of seaweed in early animal communities almost 500 million years ago and their influence on modern ocean ecosystems today.
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Cultivating Wellness: The Impact of Community Gardens in Lansing
Sunday, April 12, 1:00 - 1:45 PM at STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Workshop Stage
Appropriate for: High school age, 18 years and above
As urban living surges, Americans are returning to their roots through community gardens—but what design elements truly cultivate vibrant, socially cohesive spaces? Partnering with Greater Lansing Food Bank, this Master of Arts in Environmental Design study delved into 50 diverse gardens in Lansing, Michigan, combining site visits and a survey to uncover which garden features spark community bonds and simplify upkeep. The findings aim to empower current and future gardeners with practical tools, transforming urban plots into lively hubs of connection and growth—fostering both food and friendship in city landscapes.
Learn more about Cultivating Wellness: The Impact of Community Gardens in Lansing
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Polymers and Sustainability
Sunday, April 12, 3:00 - 3:45 PM at STEM Teaching and Learning Facility, Workshop Stage
Appropriate for: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, 18 years and above
This presentation offers an introductory overview of how polymeric materials play vital roles across diverse fields—including energy, health care, automotive and aerospace, advanced coatings, intelligent packaging, and separation and purification technologies. It highlights recent advances in polymer science and technology while addressing the environmental challenges posed by synthetic polymers and emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions, as outlined by recent National Science Foundation and National Academies initiatives.