By Dan Hardy, Philadelphia Inquirer
This week, hundreds of seventh graders at Arcola have been learning to use digital microscopes, taking pictures of tiny organisms and printing them out at the end of class. Having students get their hands on the same kind of equipment used in college labs and industry is “unbelievable,” Arcola seventh-grade science teacher Peggy Greene said. “It definitely encourages the students to see that the microscope is a tool that can be exciting in learning science. . . . It makes them consider science as a real career opportunity or a real passion.” Students agreed. “It’s a good learning experience,” seventh grader Hannah O’Neill said. “It’s really great to use this cool piece of technology.” The Science in Motion premise is simple: Schools often can’t afford state-of-the-art scientific gear, costing thousands of dollars, that might be used only sporadically. Science in Motion buys the equipment and supplies, and lends them to schools that request them. Highly trained staffers often come along, introducing the technology and teaching students.
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