Museum News (June 17, 2024)

Ready, set, think! Campers attending the Hansen Museum’s 3^rd Annual STEM Camp dove head first into coding and programming micro:bits. What is a micro:bit? It is a tiny, pocket-sized computer. Micro:bits allow children to learn how computers work at a basic level. Each camper was given a micro:bit to program by writing code. What is coding? Coding is language for a computer. It is the way computer software, apps, and websites are created. Almost everything that you see on a computer or phone screen has been created using code. What is programming? Programming is the process of giving a computer a given set of instructions (written in code) to run. Campers had to create a code (language) to program their micro:bits to perform desired tasks. These kids took to the micro:bits like a duck to water. After programming them to do basic tasks like flashing their names, they advanced to harder coding so their micro:bits could tell time or play “Rock, Paper, Scissors.” The older students performed more complicated programming like making arcade type games they designed or programming their micro:bit into a remote control for a car. Some paired up and programmed their devices to send messages back and forth. These campers worked really hard without even realizing it was work—they had a blast! A huge thank you to STEM Camp instructor Brad Schmolesky for encouraging these campers to have a growth mindset and making coding and programming not only tangible, but fun as well!

Coming up next at the Hansen Museum is Joy of Painting class with Hope Blakely on July 6^th & 7^th. Hope is relatively new to the Museum’s continuing education schedule, but Joy of Painting is a tried-and-true patron favorite class. Receiving her Certified Ross Instructor certificate in 2017, Hope is a very experienced instructor and comes to the Museum with glowing recommendations. Saturday, participants will paint “Barn in Fog” and Sunday’s class will produce “Triple Waterfall.” Joy of Painting is a wonderful introduction to oil painting – all supplies are provided! Call the Museum at 785-689-4846 for more information. Pre-registration is required.

Listen up! Our newest traveling exhibit offers visitors the opportunity to see, feel and hear sound. Visitors will experience our sonic world while exploring fourteen interactive learning stations. Come discover key listening skills through the science of sound and hearing. Sonic Sensation will remain on view through July 28^th. Make plans to come make some noise at the Hansen Museum this summer! The Museum is open Mon. through Fri. 9-12 and 1-4; Sat. 9-12 & 1-5; Sun. and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. We are handicapped accessible, and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information or if you have questions, please contact us at 785-689-4846. We hope to see you at the Museum!