Frequently Asked Questions
What does Science FUNdamentals do?
Science FUNdamentals sends volunteers into elementary school classrooms around the city, primarily ones that are closer to the university. Volunteers are paired up and assigned to a classroom, and approximately every three weeks each pair will go into that class to do a variety of demonstrations for the children, explaining the science behind what the students see and helping to link this back to the curriculum and everyday life. We also put on the one-day Science FUNDay, a free science fair of sorts held at the University of Alberta, open to anyone to come. We have a lot of experiments going on, as well as hands-on stations and guest speakers.
What is the volunteer commitment?
The time commitment is approximately 2 hours during regular school hours every 3 or 4 weeks. It takes approximately one hour to do a demo in a classroom, plus transit time to and from the school. We also are asking our volunteers to contribute 2 hours per semester to fundraising efforts.
What grades does Science FUNdamentals work with?
We usually work with Grades 3-6; however, we have worked outside this range as well.
Do I have to be a Science or Education major to volunteer?
Not at all. We are glad to have volunteers from all faculties.
If I have to do a practicum in my second term, can I not volunteer?
While we do like our volunteers to stay with us throughout the year, we acknowledge that this is just not possible in all cases. Please do not let this stop you from applying! Just let us know in your interview.
I really want to volunteer, but I don't know much about science, or how to do experiments. What should I do?
We have a large repertoire of demos available to all volunteers, and the chemicals to do those with. They also come with explanations, and links back to the curriculum. A highschool knowledge of science should be enough so that the demos will not confuse you, and if you ever have problems understanding how something works, we're always glad to answer questions!
Can I be paired up with my friend?
You can submit your request to us via the contact form; however, we do not guarantee that these requests will be filled! We put many volunteers in many classrooms, and sometimes it just does not work as well to put you with your friend. We encourage you to be open to the possibility of volunteering with someone new - Science FUNdamentals has a lot of great people involved, and this is a great way to make a new friend.
