NUK Winter Science Camp Brings Hands-On Experiments to Taoyuan, Inspiring Young Learners through Electrolytes and Luminescent Materials
2026-02-04
The Department of Applied Physics at National University of Kaohsiung (NUK), led by Chair Chiu Chao-Wen, recently shared the outcomes of its outreach initiative to rural communities. Through a winter science camp held at Taoyuan Elementary School, the team guided students in hands-on experiments involving electrolytes, phosphorescent materials, and sound vibrations—sparking curiosity while fostering foundational scientific literacy.
The four-day Winter Science Camp, held from January 24 to 27, was organized by Professor Chiu in collaboration with Assistant Professors Ho Yung-Hao and Chuang Yao-Yuan from the Department of Applied Chemistry, along with Associate Professor Kao Yu-Ling from the Department of Life Sciences. Together, they formed an interdisciplinary teaching team of faculty members and student volunteers to promote science education in underserved regions.
Professor Chiu noted that since the 2020 academic year, NUK’s outreach team has maintained a long-term partnership with Taoyuan Elementary School, supported by funding from the National Science and Technology Council. Due to limited access to teaching resources and laboratory facilities in rural areas, students often lack opportunities for hands-on experimentation. To address this gap, the team transported experimental equipment and designed age-appropriate curricula, enabling students to safely use lab tools such as goggles, droppers, test tubes, and graduated cylinders. Over time, sustained engagement has built trust with the school, parents, and the local community.
The camp followed a “learning by doing” approach, centering on three core modules: electrolyte experiments, luminescent material creation, and sound vibration observation. Additional activities incorporated concepts such as the siphon effect and chemical reactions. Through these experiments, students explored key scientific principles, including electrical conductivity in solutions, energy transformation, and sound wave propagation, all presented through accessible, real-life contexts and guided by clear safety protocols.
Throughout the program, students demonstrated noticeable growth—from initial hesitation in handling experimental procedures to confidently completing tasks independently, asking questions, and assisting peers. Repeated hands-on practice and group discussions helped them not only understand scientific phenomena but also build confidence and sustained interest in science.
Student volunteers played a critical role in the camp’s success. Four experienced volunteers—Wan Po-Yen, Chuang Yung-Ching, Hsu Ting-Wei, and Li Hsin-Yu—served as core team members, coordinating lesson flow, supporting on-site instruction, and mentoring new volunteers, ensuring smooth program execution.
In addition, the camp incorporated introductory AI-assisted learning elements. University student volunteers guided elementary students through simple ideation and design exercises, allowing them to experience how digital tools can support learning. These activities were designed to inspire curiosity and provide basic technological awareness, complementing rather than replacing traditional hands-on learning methods.
Through sustained outreach efforts, NUK continues to bridge educational resource gaps, using science education as a platform to empower young learners and cultivate future interest in STEM fields.
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