Stemming from a shared belief in the importance of exposing children to different forms of learning, the Advancement of Sciences Publishing and Distribution (ASPD) organized a children’s workshop in collaboration with the Museum of Arabic Islamic Science and Fine Arts Centre at Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre during the national holidays.
The aim was to introduce children to the legacy of Arab and Muslim scientists and to help them learn the steps of the scientific method. Participants learned about the progression of the scientific method from early philosophers and natural scientists who first used experimentation as a way to reach scientific conclusions. They also learned about Ibn al-Haytham’s theory of optics and visual perception, which was a stepping stone to modern science; relying on investigative methodology to prove that vision occurs when light enters the eyes rather than the eyes emitting light.
In the second part of the event, kids were introduced to Ibn al-Haytham’s cabin at the Museum of Arabic Islamic Science and engaged in an experiment By Muneera Al-Yahya that explains the basic functions of the camera obscura using an ASPD publication called the Most Amazing Pop-up Science Book.
“It was important for us that the kids are not just receiving information but are active participants in producing the information,” Mohammad Al-Obaidi, the presenter and organizer, said.
Engaging children in the learning process as active participants and introducing them to the richness of their scientific heritage can drastically improve their learning and thinking abilities, according to Al-Obaidi. “When they learn about the profound contributions of their ancestors to science, they become confident that they too can have a place in the field,” he said.
The event also included an interactive science show by Big Jack, Abdullah Almousawi, a science presenter - who specializes in chemistry - for children and adults alike. Almousawi, who wears a giant Einstein-like grey wig and a lab coat covered in chemistry equations, demonstrated experiments revolving around the principle of sublimation, the chemistry of volcanoes and showcased magic tricks using science.
Throughout his show, the entire crowd could be heard yelling out in awe and excitement, with their jaws gaping open. “Science makes me happy, especially chemistry,” AlMousawi said. “Some people who hate science, after my show they love it because it’s presented in a simple and funny way.”
It was important for us that the kids are not just receiving information but are active participants in producing the information
By Muneera Al Yahya
