TECHNOLOGY AND TOYS (TNT) USED TO IMPROVE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
Extension Education
Christina Becker
Extension Educator 4-H
Penn State Extension Greene County
Waynesburg
Abstract
\r\n The Penn State Pesticide Education Program uses materials, affectionately called "toys", to create a leaning environment that entices consumers, especially children, into a dialogue about pests, pest control, chemical safety, and poison prevention. Toys are fun and create an opportunity to interact with the target audience enabling educators to teach difficult concepts through play. The poster will show examples of exhibits our program has used to disseminate pesticide safety messages. These exhibits are used to pique the interest of the target audience enough to spark a conversation and engage individuals about difficult subject matters. DB Pest, a robot incorporates advanced technology to entice children to interact. A hidden operator/educator has a remote control unit to move the robot and a headset to speak to children. With modern architectural technology, we can quickly construct a fun miniature golf exhibit where children learn as they golf. The pesticide safety message taught is enhanced with signage and obstacles. The theme can be easily changed. Talking points are provided as a supplement to the educational message. A spinning prize wheel is used to ask people questions on a variety of topics pertaining to a chosen theme. Various themes for the prize wheel are developed with an accompanying computer program. Finally, we have a look-alike display intended to pique people’s curiosity about the bright colored liquid in each of the unlabelled bottles. The interest generates a conversation about properly storing chemicals in and around the home. Supplemental material will be available at the poster display.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: C.Y. Becker
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Becker, C. Extension Associate, Pesticide Education Program, Penn State University, Pennsylvania, 16802