From October 4 to 6, Northern Ontario presented itself at the Paris Science Festival, an international event bringing together scientists and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds.
Science North, the only participating Canadian science center, showcased its educational and bilingual offerings, focusing on ocean science, a crucial theme for our planet.
Other scientific groups and centers from Africa and Europe also participated, tackling a variety of topics from meteoroids to microbiology, environment, robotics and astronomy.
Nature exchange : an interactive experience
At the heart of Science North’s commitment was the program Nature Exchangean initiative that allows visitors to exchange natural objects for points.
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Bruce Doran presented the Nature Exchange program at the Paris Science Festival.
Photo : Science Nord
Bruce Dorana scientist at Science North, explains that this program, already implemented in Sudbury, promotes exploration and interactive learning by encouraging participants to bring back minerals or fossils from their environment.
This exchange system educates about nature and creates a link between the center and its visitors
specifies Doran, adding that this experience represents a journey of scientific exploration.
He also highlights the objective of presenting this project in Paris in order to inspire other scientific centers around the world. While representing the French-speaking world in Paris, Doran declared: We are proud to present our programs in French in an international context.
Inclusive and engaged education
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Tina Leduc explains the importance of Canadian scientific engagement at the Science Festival.
Photo : Science Nord
Tina Leduc, manager of informal programs at Science North, highlights the importance of this event in demonstrating Canada’s scientific leadership.
She expresses her satisfaction at being able to offer this experience in French, emphasizing the need to arouse interest in science and encourage critical thinking among young people.
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Young people wearing special glasses learn what a concussion is and discover its symptoms and impacts.
Photo : Science Nord
The interactive activities offered aim to captivate the public while promoting an understanding of environmental issues.
A cultural bridge between Canada and Europe
This event also made it possible to share Canadian cultural elements.
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A diversity of scientific groups and centers from Africa and Europe brought together to share their knowledge. Families, young couples and people of all ages explore the science exhibits at the Festival, with more than 50,000 visitors in attendance.
Photo : Science Nord
Bruce Doran mentions that The center featured activities related to Canada’s natural resources, including a sensory station where visitors could experience different scents of nature such as that of the skunk.
We wanted to establish a link between our natural environment and that of Europe
he explains.
Tina Leduc adds that promoting Canadian experiences, such as the adaptations of North American birds, aims to enrich the visitor experience while highlighting the diversity of Canadian flora.
By highlighting its unique initiatives, the center strengthens its reputation and raises awareness of environmental issues among an international audience.
Northern Ontario’s presence at the Paris Science Festival illustrates Science North’s ability to inspire and educate while celebrating Canada’s natural and cultural wealth.
Bruce Doran concludes by noting that more than 50,000 visitors passed through the doors of the Festival in Paris.
