Diana Hunn and Susan Clay

Due to technical difficulties, I arrived late to Diana Hunn’s and Susan Clay’s session on Using Humor to Enhance Scientific Literacy. Fortunately, they are good humored about late arrivals. After experiencing the tech issues, I was ready to LOL a bit; they did not disappoint.

They put the fun in science by using mylar balloons, “stuffed animal” versions of blood cells and neurons, cartoons and comics, tongue-twisters, songs, and sayings from that noted Philadelphian, Ben Franklin. Susan says even though the Grossology exhibit is geared toward younger kids, her high school students enjoyed it so much that they aced a test on the digestive system. “Don’t ever think they’re too old” for gross-out humor, she advises.

Diana also pointed out that using humor in class can be an effective way to find out if your students harbor any misconceptions. She referred to the NSTA Press book Uncovering Student Misconceptions as a source for more information.

The main thing for teachers to bear in mind when using humor to teach science is to chill out, they conclude. “You’ve got to be relaxed. You’ve got to let it happen.”

On my way out, I encountered a teacher who was wondering if she could still catch part of the session–ah, a fellow latecomer; alas, too late! To keep her sunny side up, I told her the good news is that Diana and Susan will be back next year in San Francisco. She smiled. 😉