What we can learn from science fair finalists
While a virtual science fair can never make up for the personal connections and unexpected adventures that usually take place during the annual week-long gathering, there are a few advantages.
First, now everyone in the country can appreciate the hard work of our most talented young scientists.
Second, no more fretting about Canada Post losing project material on its trip across the country (true story: in 2004, my boxes arrived in St. John's the day after judging finished).
Third, more selfishly, it allows me to participate in the judging process from the comfort of my home office.
The finalists I interacted with this past week were full of promise and potential and left me hopeful about the next generation of scientists. Although they have much to learn about scientific research, these students can impart a few critical lessons about conducting and communicating science even to seasoned scientists:
Tell the listener why they should be interested.
Write in plain, simple language.
Present clear objectives.
Show pictures of the actual experimental setup!
Be candid about negative results.
Use colours and aesthetically pleasing graphics.
Show enthusiasm about the work.
Stick to the allotted presentation time.
Answer questions graciously.
Never lose the sense of curiosity, wonder, and creativity.