Technology, space and business: the BUT Junior Children's University entertains and educates
On weekends, university students at Brno University of Technology are regularly replaced in the lecture halls by elementary school pupils who, thanks to the BUT Junior program, discover the beauty of not only technical education but also university life. This academic year, they have already tried their hands at the work of scientists, engineers, architects, and marketing specialists.
Thanks to the popular educational program BUT Junior, future scientists explore interesting projects and learn how research and investigation work. Before starting the actual lessons, they received matriculation certificates at the BUT rectorate and began their junior scientific career. Afterwards, the children visited the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, the Faculty of Architecture, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, and the Institute of Forensic Engineering. Their most recent experiences come from the Faculty of Business and Management.
First steps toward a scientific career
The BUT Junior children's university kicked off in October at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, where young engineers immersed themselves in programming simple robots with Lego Mindstorms and explored the mysteries of air traffic. "Activities on the theme 'How to Get an Airplane into the Sky' introduced children to the basic principles of flying and aircraft operations, primarily through simple tasks," explained František Löffelmann from the Institute of Aerospace Engineering.
In November, participants became architects. Through engaging lessons, they explored what experimental architecture is and learned how to work with perspective and composition.
At the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, children first learned interesting facts about space research and then, in smaller groups, discovered the wonders and challenges of electrical engineering. They delved into the world of robots, electronic dice, nuclear energy, biosignals, and game programming with Micro:bit Arcade.
In January, future engineers tried vehicle simulators, measurement with a thermal imaging camera and experienced simulations of the effects of substance use. They also analyzed traffic accidents and learned what to do in case of emergencies.
The most recent session took place at the Faculty of Business and Management. Here, children learned about marketing and marketing communication. They experimented with designing product packaging, creating original logos, and working on product visibility.
Discovery has no age limit
A new feature this year is a special program for parents who wait for their curious children during the children's university sessions. Through discussions, workshops, and guided tours, they can learn about the focus of different faculties and departments while also discovering new trends in the technical and artistic world and broadening their horizons.
As part of the accompanying program, parents participated in a 3D printing workshop, visited robotic workstations, and explored space research laboratories. At the Institute of Forensic Engineering, they examined case studies from forensic expertise, and at the Faculty of Business and Management, they discussed visual pollution, advertising, and its impact on public perception.
"This year, we decided to expand the BUT Junior program with activities for parents because we want to give them the opportunity to get a glimpse into the university environment and learn about the current topics being addressed here. From the sessions we've had so far, we see that parents are interested and engaged, and we believe this program will provide them with insights that will help them better support their children in making decisions about their future," explained program coordinator Lenka Svobodová.
Through informal extracurricular education, the BUT Junior program fosters participants' interest in studying STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). More information about the program can be found on the BUT Junior website.
If you don’t want to miss the start of registration for the next edition of VUT Junior, leave your contact details here.
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| Author | Mgr. Lenka Hubáčková |
|---|---|
| Published | |
| Link | https://www.vut.cz/en/but/f19528/d283356 |