The mad mad world of science

Mou Chakraborty
Kolkata, May 14, 2007
Your child might already have an inclination towards the sciences or maybe they are like some who shy away from the subject. Parents need not always look for a “good teacher” from now on, as there is fun way to learn science in the city.
Coming to India for the first time, is an international organisation – Mad Science – specialising in teaching science to schoolchildren in a fun manner. And the good news is that the organisation will be based in the city.
“We specialise in organising crazy scientific experiments for schoolchildren between 6 and 12 years. Our aim is to help them fall in love with science through fun at a tender age. So, when they grow up they can take to the subject naturally and maybe pursue a career in science. Mad Science engages children in scientific explorations that are so much fun that children will forget they are learning,” said Anirban Chanda, head of Mad Science in Kolkata.
Mad Science originated in Montreal, Canada in 1985. It was the brainchild of two brothers, Ariel and Ron Shlien. As children, the brothers loved performing crazy scientific experiments for friends in their neighbourhood. Currently, Mad Science has a presence in over 23 countries, including the US, the UK, Italy, Singapore, Malaysia and Canada. “The Mad Science performances are famous all over the world. Our presentations are 60 per cent entertainment and 40 per cent education. Children do not want to spend time after school with a science tutor when they go home. So, we offer them the knowledge through fun,” said Chanda.
Text books, exercise books, blackboards and homework are banned in Mad Science programmes. Mad Science instructors have their own experiment kits and according to the syllabus being followed, the children are assisted to try out upto 10 experiments in a one-hour class. The organisation specialises in imparting practical, hands-on knowledge of science through fun-filled experiments. And the good part is that they will probably remember the experience and could well be spurred on to greater things.
Mad Science offers several types of programmes such as, yearlong workshops in schools, summer camps, after-school and pre-school programmes. They kicked off by organising a summer camp at Science City from May 14 to May. “We are approaching various schools for tie-ups and parents can also send their children to us for after school programmes conducted on weekends spread over 8 weeks,” said Chanda.
You can invite Mad Science to your child’s birthday parties too. “Our no-mess, hassle-free parties typically last one hour, with the option of special add-ons, like cotton candy-making, bubbling potions and rocket launches. Children will discover objects that float through columns of air, marvel at the mystery of fireworks, see the power of static electricity and be amazed by green-glowing water,” Chanda added.
The programmes start from Rs 2,000 per student and to know more about the programmes, you can log on to www.madscience.org.
mou.hindustantimes@yahoo.com