To acquire knowledge, one must study; but to acquire wisdom, one must observe.

– Marilyn vos Savant

Hello my creative friends,

Imagine a world where every glance holds the potential for discovery, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary through the lens of curiosity. Welcome to the art of observation, a skill that can transform your perception of the world and shape your STEM journey in profound ways. As summer casts its warm glow, let’s delve into the importance of observation and how it can amplify your experiences in STEM.

Observation is more than meets the eye; it’s a doorway to understanding the intricate dance of the universe. From the minute details of a flower’s petal to the grandeur of distant galaxies, observation invites us to explore the unseen narratives that surround us. By honing your ability to observe, you’re equipped with a powerful tool to unravel mysteries, make connections, and uncover pathways to innovation.

🔭 Initiate & Plan 🔭

As you go about your day, take a moment to pause. Observe the world around you with fresh eyes, paying attention to the nuances and details that often go unnoticed. Notice the patterns, the interactions, and the moments that tell a story. Engage your curiosity, and ask yourself questions that spark your imagination. How does this relate to STEM? How could this observation lead to a discovery?

Fun Stuff That’s Caught My Attention Recently

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• The Curious Case of Polywater shows how careful and critical observation can reveal the truth behind seemingly extraordinary phenomena, and how confirmation bias can lead to false conclusions. Submitted by Emily – thanks for the read Emily!
• Why not take your observation skills to the next level by becoming a citizen scientist?  All you have to do is observe and input your data using one of these 6 apps.
• Okay, maybe we’ve looked too hard…Unearthing Culinary Pasts—With Help From Llama Poop 😂
• What happens when our visual perception misleads us, and how can we educate children to thrive in a world that does not yet exist? Beau Lotto explains.

As you embrace the lessons of observation and curiosity, you can take it a step further. Choose one observation from your day and brainstorm how it could inspire a unique STEM project. It could be a natural phenomenon, a technological interaction, or even a social behavior.

Feel free to share your thoughts with us – we’re excited to see how you’re implementing the art of observation in your STEM journey!

Stay observant and keep exploring,

Stuart McKelvie

Communications Manager

Youth Science Canada

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