BAKER — Olivia Berry has a better idea of what to expect next year when she takes science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, courses.
For starters, "there are a lot of activities" — and a lot of cool science projects — the 11-year-old said. "I learned you can power two phones using apples."
The lessons followed a recent exhibition in Baker School's cafeteria that featured 25 hands-on activitieshighlighting what middle and high school students are learning in STEM courses.
PHOTOS: See 13 photos from the Family STEM night at Baker School >>
The point?
"… Science is not boring," STEM teacher Stacy Burlison said.
Students made dry ice bubbles and powered a light bulb with household items.
Lindsey Stewart, 13, demonstrated how a hair dryer can keep a mid-air foam ball in motion.
Dennis Hausch, a Northwest Florida Astronomy Association member, brought his telescope to the April 24 event to safely view the sun's spots and see Jupiter at night.
All the exhibitions left an impression on Baker residents Clarence and Bertha Collins, who appreciated how entertaining STEM courses are for students like their 12-year-old granddaughter, A'Lena Banks.
"This is more exciting for them, as opposed to just (reading) books," Bertha said.
And seeing a large number of female students involved was encouraging, she said.
"When I was in school, it was mostly boys doing the projects," Bertha said. "There are just as many girls interested in science as there are boys."
Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: STEM night shows 'science is not boring' (PHOTOS)