Outside the classroom, indoors at Techniquest - 30/09/2009

Learning outside of the classroom doesn’t necessarily mean an outdoor excursion, as Techniquest demonstrates with its programme of indoor science exhibits and stage shows, in the third feature of our Quality Badge series.

Learning outside the classroom is now seen as an essential part of a pupil’s educational experience. For many children this has meant lessons outside in the natural environment, however learning outside the classroom doesn’t have to mean going outside. Techniquest, the hands-on science discovery centre in Cardiff Bay provides an ideal way of bringing lessons to life.

Techniquest, was one of the first venues in the UK to gain the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge. It offers pupils the chance to quite literally get to grips with concepts in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. The waterfront building is filled with more than 120 exhibits waiting to be prodded, pushed, pulled and generally played with, as pupils discover the wonders of science for themselves. Where else can they find out how to fire a hydrogen rocket, and why it works? Or work out how a body fits together, or how water can help shift half a ton of granite?

This hands-on approach can be a huge help to science learning and personal development, as outlined in the Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto developed by the Department for Children, Schools and Families, which states: ‘Young people of all ages benefit from real ‘hands-on’ experiences; when they can see, hear, touch and explore the world around them and have opportunities to experience challenge and adventure.’

In addition to exploring the interactive exhibits, all school groups that visit Techniquest can attend a show in the Science Theatre and Planetarium, or a workshop in the Laboratory. The ever-changing schools programme at Techniquest covers STEM subjects for pupils of all ages, from reception class right up to A-level, with all shows and workshops firmly tied to the National Curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to discuss topics, respond to questions, and ask their own, throughout all presentations.