Day 2

This morning we were treated to a McDonalds breakfast directly across from the Science Centre. Upon arriving at the OSC, which is this year celebrating its 50th anniversary, we met Christine Pigeon, the Experience Coordinator, who took us on a unique backstage tour of the centre. We got to see the processes involved in designing and creating the interactive exhibits by talking to a designer and Artifacts Coordinator. It was really interesting to learn about the hard work and multidisciplinary approach involved in creating each exhibit.

We then attended a physics class on momentum and collision at The OSC Science School with final year secondary school students from all over the province of Ontario. As part of an experiment we calculated the minimum speed required to karate chop a board in half. We all gave it a go, it was painful but hilarious and we’re pleased to say that we were all successful (eventually). We then did another hands on experiment on weight distribution, where Lauren lay on a bed of nails and Andrew hit her with a baseball bat! Due to the surface area of the nails and spongy protection she didn’t feel a thing. It was great to meet Canadian pupils our age, also entering University in September with similar interests to ours.

After the lab lesson at the OSC School, we explored the Human exhibit, which incorporated many aspects of human biology and development. There were several interesting displays, such as one demonstrating the effects of concussion in contact sports such as ice hockey, even while wearing a helmet. It had a big impact on us, but the noise really did our head in (puns intended). There was also a fascinating exhibit on the human risks involved in climbing Mount Everest. It was eye opening to learn the extent of the risks and and hazards involved in completing the expedition at incredible height with 30% oxygen, especially in the light of the recent congestion and death toll recently.

One of the OSC Hosts then gave us a fascinating tour of an exhibit on “bias as an ethical issue affecting scientific research”. It linked in very well with our TCPS 2 core certificate course we are completing on line and acted as a great introduction to our time learning about ethical research practices with Dr Markwell later on in the week.

In the evening we went for a stroll together up Yonge Street, the longest street in the World, to explore the local downtown area. The incredible skyline was beautiful with all the skyscrapers lighting up the night sky. It was a lovely end to the day.