Columbus-area elementary-school students are experiencing a relatively new form of learning, courtesy of Ohio State. The Wonders of Our World program teaches elementary-school students physical and biological sciences through hands-on experiments.
WOW is now in its third year and is considering expanding to other colleges in the nation. The program includes five elementary schools, and has doubled its school involvement every year since its 1999 inception, said Louise Van Wey, WOW program coordinator.
“The program is developed around principals’ and teachers’ wants and needs,” Van Wey said.
WOW was formulated by chemistry professor Susan Olesik to help area pupils and teachers develop math and science programs. The program tries to increase science literacy and heighten the complexity of science material teachers are comfortable presenting to students.
The experiments to which students are exposed are led by professionals, teachers and volunteers. The involvement of many people means that more individual attention is given to pupils as they work.
“I can’t stress the importance of help from OSU student volunteers,” Van Wey said. “(WOW) wouldn’t be possible without OSU students.”
WOW is getting praise from the area elementary schools involved, whether they are original members or are new to the program.
“Students have a better understanding of science through this additional exposure,” said Rick Wiemanger, principal of Chapman Elementary School.
“(WOW) is an opportunity to bring hands-on learning to students,” said Angie Rickly, WOW coordinator at Medary Elementary School.
The students involved play an important role in the success of the young scientists.
When the student volunteers go to the schools, it’s a huge event for pupils at all grade levels, Rickly said.
“The kids love working with the volunteers,” Wiemanger said.
Van Wey said WOW is always looking for volunteers to provide students with more one-on-one attention. An informational meeting for students interested in volunteering for WOW will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday in 1015 McPherson Laboratory.
