Bridging the Gap: Reinvigorating Young Minds through Science Olympiads and STEM Activities at Chattanooga State

At Chattanooga State, 270 students from third to fifth grade took part in the Elementary Science Olympiad after a three-year hiatus. The event was filled with 24 STEM-related activities that challenged participants to think critically and creatively.

Jameson Cavanagh and Brennan Yann, both fourth graders, worked together on various challenges, including the egg drop. Their team successfully completed the challenge without breaking their egg by utilizing different techniques, such as using bubble wrap to protect their egg.

During the event, Samara Brigner and Lainey Stalans focused on in-class activities like sky quest, testing their knowledge of constellations. Megan Bragg, an associate professor of chemistry at Chattanooga State, was one of the organizers of the event. She emphasized how STEM events like this can help students explore math and science further, creating future career opportunities.

Bragg believes that exposing students to different subjects early on can help them find their interests and potentially lead them to pursue careers in STEM fields. Both participants expressed how fun and educational the event was for them. They enjoyed the hands-on activities and challenges that sparked their curiosity and interest in science and math.

Overall, the Elementary Science Olympiad provided a platform for students to showcase their skills in STEM fields while also inspiring them to pursue further studies in these areas. The event is a testament to how important it is to expose young minds to science and technology at an early age.