Public Discussion of Homewood Community Science Center Set for April 20

The Village of Homewood is taking next steps in plans for a community science center, continuing with a public conversation set for Monday, April 20 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Ravisloe Country Club.

The workshop is meant to bring residents into a common space to share their perspectives on community aspirations and issues, engage in a hands-on activity, and learn more about the Science Center concept from staff from the Exploratorium, who will be developing the science center plan.

Seating is limited, so reservations are required and each attendee must reserve his or her own seat (click here to reserve seats). Half of the available seats remain.

The Village answered some common questions about the center on its website.

Community Science Center? What’s that?

The proposed development will be:

• Part science museum – part retail space – part community center.
• Mad scientist’s penny arcade – scientific funhouse – experimental laboratory.
• An accessible science museum with rotating exhibits and activities that challenge youth and adults alike to explore scientific principles in engaging ways.

The center will be “designed for people of all ages from preschool through adulthood,” to encourage intergenerational learning.

“The mission of science centers is usually to spark an interest in science learning, to practice using inquiry skills, and to develop understanding of scientific concepts,” according to the Village’s website. The center can also serve as supplementary to local schools’ science curricula, as well as provide ongoing learning experiences.

The Village has acquired what it describes as the ideal site for the center, that of the former Ryan’s Funeral Home. The property at 18022 Dixie Highway is located near village landmarks such as Village Hall, Homewood Public Library, and public safety buildings. It also abuts to the area designated as the Martin Avenue Streetscape Project, which is slotted for completion in fall 2015.

Learn more about the group behind the science center.

What’s on the Agenda for April 20:

• Community input on aspirations and issues around kids and learning. Residents will be asked a few open-ended questions about their aspirations for their community, especially around kids, learning and science. This will take place in small groups at their tables, with a short full group summary. Notes will take and collected from each table.
• Community Science Center presentation and discussion, led by Exploratorium

• Participate in a Tinkering or Making activity that involves creating a motorized contraption that moves in interesting ways and leaves a mark to trace its path. This activity fosters individual exploration through building, testing, asking new questions, more tinkering, and experimenting. It is also great fun. Tinkering activity, followed by short full group feedback and reflection.

Ravisloe Country Club is located at 18231 South Park Avenue in Homewood.