Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Dr. Jack Glassman will present “Super Lasers: How Lasers Work and What They’re Used For,” during three upcoming Teen Science Cafés.
The events are hosted in part by the SIUE Center for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Research, Education and Outreach. Glassman, associate professor of physics, will explain how lasers work through hands-on activities. He also will take attendees through an exploration of real-life applications of his research.
“This is an opportunity for area teens to come together and learn about an exciting area of science,” said Sean Herberts, STEM Center educational outreach coordinator. “Teens will learn how lasers are used on a daily basis. From computers and disk readers, to military use and general exploration, this light-based technology has become essential to society.”
Glassman will speak at the following times, dates and locations to the specified audiences:
- Thursday, Feb. 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Academy of Science St. Louis Center for Emerging Technologies, 4041 Forest Park Ave., St. Louis
Audience: Junior Academy of Science members and 6th-12th grade students
- Thursday, Feb. 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Cahokia High School, 800 Range Lane, Cahokia
Audience: 9th-12th grade students
- Thursday, March 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the St. Louis Science Center Taylor Center, 4900 Manchester Ave., St. Louis
Audience: 8th-12th grade students
Those planning to attend the Academy of Science – St. Louis event are required to register online. Individuals who would like to attend the event at Cahokia High School are encouraged to contact kingann@stclair.k12.il.us or feldhakelh@stclair.k12.us. To attend the Taylor Center event, contact ksteviso@slsc.org. Although registration is required, all events are free.
With financial support from the National Science Foundation, area teens have access to nationally prominent scientists, engineers and inventors as part of the Teen Science Cafés Network. The SIUE STEM Center is working with its collaborating partners—the Academy of Science – St. Louis and the St. Louis Science Center’s Taylor Center—to make the local events possible. Events held last year at numerous area locations throughout Greater St. Louis drew hundreds of attendees.
A free, fun way for teens to explore the latest science and technology ideas, the program is aimed at starting conversations with prominent leaders in their fields, while providing a non-intimidating, relaxed environment. Other topics will be explored in coming months.
To learn more about the initiative, visit the Gateway Teen Science Café website, teencafestl.org or call the SIUE STEM Center at (618) 650-3065.