When I started working with the Science Fair Foundation, I endeavored to distill down what a science fair could be to a greater audience. At its core, a science fair is a platform where budding scientists, engineers, and innovators come together to explore, experiment, and discover the wonders of the world around them.

There were the stereotypes I knew from my youth of homemade volcanoes or solar system models on one end of the spectrum and The Manhattan Project, a movie that depicts a young prodigy who builds an atomic bomb for a National Science Fair. The concept seemed simple, but my query expanded to define the purpose and execution of a fair.

From elementary school gymnasiums to prestigious international competitions, science fairs offer a space for students to engage in hands-on learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving like no other. Once I saw first hand the projects that youth were creating, I was invigorated seeing how this process allows kids to work out ideas from their curiosities separate from the school system. It gives them autonomy to delve into subjects that they want and allows for an expression of those unique curiosities.

While they often start in classrooms, most of the work on science fair projects happens outside of the classroom. Many teachers and independent schools use science fairs to engage their kids in the process of science and curiosity. Regional science fairs are run independently of the school system and open to all in that region. I’ll break down the basics of the regional fair system in British Columbia and the Yukon, and why this detached system is important.

Regional fairs are held in different provincial geographical regions where winners then go on to the Canada-Wide Science Fair, then potentially on to a variety of different International Fairs such as the Taiwan International Science Fair, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, and many more. Below is a list of the various fairs in British Columbia, and the Yukon. Dates of the fairs change from year to year, but generally, they are held in the spring.

A typical science fair project will fall into one of a number of scientific categories and may be an experiment, innovation, or study.

An experiment is an investigation undertaken to test a specific hypothesis using experiments. Experimental variables, if identified, are controlled to some extent. An outstanding experiment devises and carries out original experimental research which attempts to control or investigate the most significant variables. This would include statistical analysis in the treatment of data.

A study is a collection and analysis of data to reveal evidence of a fact or situation of scientific interest. It could include a study of cause-and-effect relationships or theoretical investigations of scientific data. An outstanding study synthesizes

information from a variety of significant sources which may illustrate cause and effect or original solutions to current problems through synthesis. It identifies significant variables with an in-depth statistical analysis of data.

An innovation is the development and evaluation of innovative devices, models, techniques or approaches in technology, engineering, or computers (hardware or software). An outstanding innovation integrates several technologies, inventions or designs and constructs an innovative technological system that will have human and/or commercial benefit.

In the late Summer/Fall the Science Fair Foundation also runs the Youth Innovation Showcase, which is a totally virtual competition open for youth in BC and the Yukon that offers cash prizes to further exploration of the ideas. Often these innovations start at the Science Fair, and improve upon for the Innovation Showcase, or vice versa because of the timing.

All of these programs are opportunities for youth to tackle real world problems through STEM, but it also helps prepare them with hands-on and practical soft skills. Learning how to collaborate, and work with various individuals and institutions to support their projects is an invaluable experience. Then having to formulate their findings and ideas, and present them in creative ways really starts to develop young people’s voices and identities.

Science fairs represent much more than just a fun and educational event for students. They are a cornerstone of innovation, education, and scientific discovery that holds immense value for both individuals and society as a whole. By nurturing curiosity, fostering essential skills, and inspiring the next generation of innovators, science fairs empower students to make a difference in the world.

As we celebrate the enduring legacy of science fairs, we need to continue to recognize their profound impact and continue to support and encourage the scientists and innovators of tomorrow.

Michael Unger is the Manager of Community Engagement of the Science Fair Foundation of BC.

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Unlocking the Potential of Science Fairs: A Gateway to Innovation and Education was first posted on April 15, 2024 at 10:35 am.
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