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Active Mindfulness and Community Building

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Active Mindfulness and Community Building

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These activities are designed for all groups since they can be modified to meet the needs. They include a wide range of what we call STEAM Teasers- which introduce participants to STEAM concepts through short collaborative hands-on activities. STEAM Teasers (steamwseniors.org)

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Here is a list of possible upcoming events with STEAMwSeniors.

Click here to go to the page: Events (steamwseniors.org)

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Gift KiwiCo Chain Reaction Workshop | KiwiCo Chain Reaction Workshop is the hottest gift on every kid’s list this year! 🎁 | By KiwiCo | Facebook

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KiwiCo Chain Reaction Workshop is the hottest gift on every kid’s list this year! 🎁

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Can Games Improve Memory?

Yes, games are an excellent way to improve memory skills. Memory games, such as trivia games and crossword puzzles, are a great way to keep the brain active and engaged. Board games, card games, and other games all improve mental wellness. Variety is key!

Games that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills also help with memory function. Games like Sudoku puzzles and word searches are great options to stimulate the brain while also having fun.

Scrabble, chess, and checkers are some of the classic board games that can help improve memory. All three require planning and strategy, which forces players to remember where pieces are placed on the board as well as what possible moves could be made.

In addition to improving cognitive skills, playing games also has a social aspect. Playing with other people encourages conversation and helps keep the mind active, helping to improve memory even further.

It's widely acknowledged that games and puzzles can enhance cognitive abilities. Neuroscientific research often uses simple games to examine memory and cognitive skills, especially in those with neurological challenges. Many children's games are crafted to boost memory, making them effective tools for mental development. Consequently, these games benefit people of all ages, including retirees, by providing similar cognitive advantages.

Pattern Recognition: Developing skills in color matching and shape identification.

Attention Span: Enhancing concentration and calm play.

Hand-Eye Coordination: Improving fine motor dexterity and strengthening neural connections.

Literacy and Math Skills: Encouraging reading, letter recognition, and basic math concepts.

Problem Solving, Reasoning, and Judgment: Reinforce decision-making skills and critical thinking.

Long Term Strategy: Teaching planning, future thinking, and sequencing for goal achievement.

Social Engagement: Playing board games can help seniors stay connected with their peers in a social atmosphere. Even if they’re playing against each other, it can still be done in a friendly and cooperative manner which encourages conversation and interaction between players.

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Domino Chain Reaction Community Challenge

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Domino Chain Reaction Community Challenge

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February 2024

The Domino Effect team building workshop for 500 pax strong team (youtube.com)

Key Information:

The activity is conducted Indoors

6 – 200 Participants

Minimum Duration is 1.5 Hours

Maximum Duration is 3 Hours

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GRINESS Singapore team building & meeting facilitators

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The Domino Effect team building workshop for 500 pax strong team

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This Padlet highlights key ideas and has additional links to information.

The STEAMwSeniors website contains the majority of the information on this Padlet. It is a good place to browse and learn more.

Link: About (steamwseniors.org)

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These are learning resources to develop your programs.

Click here and scroll through this massive list of resources: Volunteer Resources (steamwseniors.org)

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Find resources here to assist with your residents in full-time care or memory care. Two related programs are suggested, Active Play and Serious Play.

Find the link here: Active and Play Therapy (steamwseniors.org)

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These slides are continuously updated. SWS Actve Play - Google Slides

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Active Play Therapy for Seniors in Care Full time care, Assisted, and Memory Care Needs Advance through the slides to find an activity or lesson that your senior citizens may benefit from. We have explored many resources and these our our recommendations. Keep checking back to see new content. ht...

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Here is a place where we continue to build curriculum. STEAM Content Library (steamwseniors.org)

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See pictures of what we are doing here. Facebook

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Find this in the STEAM Teasers link at the top.

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One of our favorite challenges. Critical thinking, collaboration, creative thinking, communication.

Find this in the STEAM Teasers link at the top.

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Spaghetti and Marshmallow Tower Challenge

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Reviewing States of Matter

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Find supporting research here.

Brain Health

Overall, Health and Wellness

Connectedness

Overcome Isolation

Intergenerational Benefits

Increased Self Worth

Click on this link: https://steamwseniors.org/supporting-research

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Encourage Seniors to Submit Their Passions Here

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Encourage Seniors to Submit Their Passions Here

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Here is a place where seniors can post their hobbies and passions with the world. They idea is to celebrate what their accomplishments, while also perhaps inspiring others. Retirement is not about sitting around and relaxing, it is a new chapter in exploring the world!

Click here to go to the site: Maker Spotlight (steamwseniors.org)

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This is a nonprofit that offers online tech help for senior citizens - via phone or video. Safe and secure.

Click here to go to there website: Free Tech Help - Cyber-Seniors Inc. (cyberseniors.org)

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This activity was done with our high functioning memory group but can easily be modified for independent and assisted learning. As with most STEAM activities, the crossover possibilities are easy to do with modifications.

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Making art with scribble bots. Again, this can be modified for every age group.

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March 2024

Incredible Rube Goldberg Machine - Singapore team building by Griness Singapore (youtube.com)

Key Information:

The Activity is conducted Indoors

5 – 100 Participants

Min Duration: 1.5 Hours

Max Duration: 3 Hours (half-day)

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GRINESS Singapore team building & meeting facilitators

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Incredible Rube Goldberg Machine - Singapore team building by Griness Singapore

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Here is a list of possible topics.

193590_069ff7427add4e95af92701e6871405f.pdf (scienceforseniors.net)

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April 2024

Citizen Science is a collaborative and inclusive approach that engages individuals from all backgrounds in contributing to scientific research and positive local actions. People from various walks of life can participate in acts of science, ranging from sharing photos of nature to using their devices to collect data on various topics such as biodiversity, Alzheimer's disease, microplastics, and air quality. Citizen Science emphasizes that everyone possesses valuable knowledge, and by working together, we can address local, regional, national, and global challenges.

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Exploration of Flight and Cars - DIY Workshop

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Exploration of Flight and Cars - DIY Workshop

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Spring 2024 - Based upon interest.

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Balsa Planes On The Power Anchor ISTEM 2016

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Fall 2024

This workshop is inspired by the annual workshop at Rocky Mountain Camp. Scrapbook Retreat | Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp (rmmc.org)

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ALTITUDE - Camp's elevation is 9,620 feet so it is important for campers and guests to take time to adjust to the high altitude. About one in four visitors to Colorado suffer from acute mountain sickness, the mildest form of altitude illness. Common symptoms include headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue and dry throat. Things you can do to minimize or avoid altitude sickness include:

Drink plenty of water before and during your time here to prevent dehydration.
Avoid strenuous exercise (hiking, jogging, etc.) and salty foods when you first arrive.
A good first night's rest is very helpful in giving your body time to acclimate.
If coming from sea level or low elevation, a day or night spent in Colorado Springs (6,035 ft) will help allow your body more time to adjust to the change in altitude.

SUNBURN - The sun is more intense at this altitude so be mindful of how quickly sunburn can occur. Use adequate sun protection including sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) or clothing (long sleeves, hat or cap) for outdoor activities. Reapply sunscreen periodically throughout the day as needed.

SUMMER WEATHER - Each day offers a sample of the seasons: spring in the morning; summer in the afternoon; fall in the evening. Even winter can be represented in early June with snow! Rain and hail storms can also come at a moment's notice just to keep things interesting. Being prepared with appropriate clothing is the key to enjoying the variety of weather the Rocky Mountains offer!

WINTER WEATHER - Colorado winter temperatures range from -10°-0°F at night to a high of 35°-45°F during the day. Because of low humidity (8-10%) temperatures feel like 45°-65°F. Sunshine makes all the difference with an average of 300 days of sun per year. Clothing items to bring include: warm winter coat, snow pants, gloves, snow boots, and hat.

PATHS & WALKWAYS (WINTER) - Be aware that paths and walkway conditions (especially on slopes) are a direct result of changing weather conditions (snow, melting & freezing temperatures). While the camp will do its best to remove snow and spread gravel, we need your help to take care and caution as you walk.

WINTER DRIVING CONDITIONS - Be aware that road conditions are a direct result of changing weather conditions (snow, melting and freezing temperatures). While we plow the road to camp and to facilities, plan for the conditions to be snow packed and slick. Four-wheel drive vehicles and two-wheel drive vehicles with chains or bands are recommended.

LOST & FOUND - Any item left behind by a guest will be kept for two weeks and then donated to charity.

QUIET HOURS - In consideration of others, noise should be kept to a minimum between 10:30 p.m. - 8:00 a.m.

SMOKING - RMMC is a smoke free facility. Smoking is only permitted in the outside designated areas, and only when a fire restriction is not in place. Every precaution must be taken to prevent a forest fire.

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ALTITUDE - Camp's elevation is 9,620 feet so it is important for campers and guests to take time to adjust to the high altitude. About one in four visitors to Colorado suffer from acute mountain sickness, the mildest form of altitude illness. Common symptoms include headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue and dry throat.

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Fall 2024

No prior expertise or experience is required; this is a safe place for all, irrespective of background. Engage in hands-on activities designed to unravel these subjects at a foundational level all while tailoring it to your interests. However, this isn't solely an educational endeavor. It's also a time to celebrate life-long learning, make new connections, and socialize through hands-on activities.

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Fall 2024

These are 5–15-minute talks. TED Talks are effective in fostering critical thinking by introducing listeners to a variety of viewpoints, concepts, and debates, thereby broadening their intellectual horizons and encouraging them to think more deeply and broadly.

We're excited to introduce a new program called TED Talks with Seniors, aimed at celebrating the wisdom and balance that age brings. This initiative will provide a platform for senior citizens to share their life stories, passions, hobbies, and interests with a diverse, intergenerational audience. Through TED Talks with Seniors, we hope to create a space that honors the rich experiences of our older generation while also fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unique insights and perspectives they have to offer.

Talks to make you feel good about getting older | TED Talks

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April 20, 2024

Hosted at Bethel College

MS and HS Participants

Volunteer Opportunities

Adult Mentors

Referees

Judges

Booth Facilitators

See event information: Special Events (steamwseniors.org)

The Rube-A-Thon competition is a challenge of creativity, communication, ingenuity and really quick thinking.

A STEAM competition for the 21st century that pits student teams against other teams to create a fantastical Rube Goldberg machine along with an even more fantastical story.

Where improvisation and engineering become intertwined.

Using only the materials provided by the Hosts and a limited amount of time, students will construct a Rube Goldberg

Machine to complete the 2024 National Task to:

PUT TOOTHPASTE ON A TOOTHBRUSH.

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Fall 2024

School to Retirement Bridge Program

Seniors can make a big difference by teaming up with teachers and students. When seniors and younger generations collaborate, it builds a sense of community and helps us all understand and respect each other better. Seniors find new purpose, and students get to learn from their valuable insights. Together, they can make our educational experience more vibrant and caring, going beyond just textbooks and lessons.

Examples:

1. Senior authors or artists create works to share with classrooms. Students use their work to inspire writing and illustrations.

2. Seniors read stories in the classroom, in-person or online.

3. Seniors volunteer to help in the classrooms in various capacities.

4. Student join retirement communities for shared STEAM experiences, like a hydroponic garden project.

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Creating low-tech makerspaces within nursing homes or assisted living communities can offer seniors significant improvements in their quality of life. The sense of achievement alone contributes to boosting self-esteem. Engaging in novel activities not only enhances confidence but also brings a sense of joy to their day. Furthermore, it might even encourage some to explore new hobbies previously unexplored.

See website for ideas: Senior Makerspaces (steamwseniors.org)

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Makerspaces require a variety of supplies, depending on your programs. This is a comprehensive list that we continue to build upon. Use it to determine your needs.

Click on the link: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ij7qbf5OOii2-YTInYKdPtO_GSnWoNSzzcBxsgKNMDE/edit?usp=sharing

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Click here to access. Let's learn about the Arts! (wsimg.com)

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Amazon.com: The Uzzle 3.0 Board Game, Family Board Games for Children & Adults, Block Puzzle Games for Ages 4+ : Toys & Games

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Amazon.com: SEQUENCE- Original SEQUENCE Game with Folding Board, Cards and Chips by Jax ( Packaging may Vary ) White, 10.3" x 8.1" x 2.31" : Toys & Games

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Amazon.com: Jinx - Fast and Fun Game of Chance Where The Luck of The Dice Determines Your Fate - Game Night Fun for Family & Adults : Toys & Games

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https://www.setgame.com/set/puzzle

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Amazon.com: Ticket to Ride Board Game | Family Board Game | Board Game for Adults and Family | Train Game | Ages 8+ | For 2 to 5 players | Average Playtime 30-60 minutes | Made by Days of Wonder : Various: Toys & Games

Ticket to Ride is a strategy-based game that helps seniors develop planning and decision-making skills. Players must compete against each other to build routes across the country while collecting route cards and scoring points.

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Amazon.com: Hasbro Jenga Classic Game with Genuine Hardwood Blocks,Stacking Tower Game for 1 or More Players,Kids Ages 6 and Up

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Amazon.com: MindWare Qwirkle Board Game : Mindware: Toys & Games

Qwirkle is a tile-based game that encourages players to come up with creative shapes and strategies to score points. The game can be adapted for various levels of difficulty, so seniors with varying abilities and experience levels can enjoy it.

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Amazon.com: Hasbro Gaming Cranium : Toys & Games

Cranium is a fast-paced game that requires players to think on their feet. Players must solve puzzles, guess words, create sculptures and act out clues in order to collect points throughout the game. It’s an excellent way for families or friends to bond as they work together to beat the clock!

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Look for variations in the games that are already popular. Here are Bingo variations. All provide different ways to play, building critical thinking skills through variety and learning new patters.

9 Amazing Different Bingo Variations to Play With Family (floridaindependent.com)

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Scaramouche is a card game that is a compilation of many others.

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In addition to board games, there are many other game options for senior citizens. Video games and online games can be an excellent way to keep the brain active, and they come in different categories, such as strategy games and puzzle games.

The popular game, Candy Crush Saga, is a great example of a modern game that provides mental exercise.

Card games are also a popular game option for seniors, and many newer games have simple rules and are easy to learn. Some of the most popular card games include Bridge and Hearts.

Game night is also a great idea for seniors who want to spend quality time with a group of friends. It provides an opportunity for social interaction while also stimulating the brain.

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Videos on all topics to supplement programs

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Videos on all topics to supplement programs

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animals Archives | The Kid Should See This

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Makey Makey – Joylabz Official Makey Makey Store

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Makey Makey: An Invention Kit for Everyone. Ever played Mario on Play-Doh or Piano on Bananas? Alligator clip to start inventing the future.

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Self-Help Guide for Training Seniors in Technology

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Self-Help Guide for Training Seniors in Technology

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https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fM9VDENtkrCGE9F2eY3Ng-Q-iUA6-OVKtjWZgIstGLY/edit?usp=sharing

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Self-Help Guide for Training Seniors in Technology- Condensed

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This is an example program for Life Enrichment for Independent Living. TBD.

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Once the community is built, then begin to move towards this. 2-3 years down the road.

Maker Faire | Global - Maker Faire

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Other contributors, please add ideas and links here.

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Other contributors, please add ideas and links here.

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Exploration of varies AI applications and programs. Computer access required.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1rDsajMSDJJPUzu7KFcM3HkjdalGL9QoT/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110375242763822805093&rtpof=true&sd=true

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Monthly Themes - Assisted Living/FT/Memory

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Monthly Themes - Assisted Living/FT/Memory

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Each month, programs for assisted living/FT/memory care can be designed around these STEAM themes.

January - Innovations

Celebrates recent technological advancements and their impact on society and the future.

Notable Figures: Tim Berners-Lee, Hedy Lamarr, Elon Musk.

February - Engineering Marvels

Focuses on engineering achievements, exploring the design and challenges behind these structures.

Notable Figures: Gustave Eiffel, Emily Warren Roebling, Fazlur Rahman Khan.

March - Women in STEAM

Highlights the contributions of pioneering women in STEAM fields.

Notable Figures: Ada Lovelace, Marie Curie, Katherine Johnson.

April - Earth and Environmental Science

Emphasizes ecology, sustainability, and environmental awareness.

Notable Figures: Rachel Carson, Carl Sagan, Jane Goodall.

May - The Wonders of Space

Explores astronomy and human space exploration.

Notable Figures: Neil deGrasse Tyson, Sally Ride, Stephen Hawking.

June - The Art in Science

Highlights the intersection between art and science.

Notable Figures: Leonardo da Vinci, Beatrix Potter, George Washington Carver.

July - Mathematical Puzzles and Games

Showcases the role of mathematics through puzzles and games.

Notable Figures: Shakuntala Devi, Alan Turing, John Nash.

August - Biomedical Breakthroughs

Focuses on advancements in medicine and healthcare technology.

Notable Figures: Rosalind Franklin, Edward Jenner, Tu Youyou.

September - Technology Through the Ages

Explores the evolution of technology and its societal impact.

Notable Figures: Steve Jobs, Grace Hopper, Benjamin Banneker.

October - The Physics of Everyday

Examines basic physics principles through everyday phenomena.

Notable Figures: Isaac Newton, Chien-Shiung Wu, Albert Einstein.

November - Chemistry in the Kitchen

Combines chemistry and cooking to explore everyday chemical reactions.

Notable Figures: Hervé This, Marie Curie, George Washington Carver.

December - The Magic of Light

Explores the science and artistic expression of light.

Notable Figures: Thomas Edison, Ibn al-Haytham, Olafur Eliasson.