Computer Science Workshops from theComputer Science Workshops from theVillanova Magic School Science CampVillanova Magic School Science Camp

Melissa Corning, Thomas Way, Mary-Angela Papalaskari, and Najib NadiMelissa Corning, Thomas Way, Mary-Angela Papalaskari, and Najib Nadi

Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USAVillanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA

Promote an interest in computer science and other sciences among teens and children by creating a theatrical “magic school” summer science camp experience.

1. University faculty and students teach teens about the sciences, theatre and magic performance.

2. Teens combine what they have learned to craft a Harry Potter inspired magic school performance.

3. Busloads of children from other summer programs come for a day of science, magic and fun at the magic school.

ComputerScience

Physics

Biology

Chemistry

AstronomyMath

Theatre

Magic

More

The PIVOTS Initiative:The PIVOTS Initiative:Peer Interdisciplinary VolunteerPeer Interdisciplinary VolunteerOutreach with Theatre & ScienceOutreach with Theatre & Science

Create a multidisciplinary service learning summer program for teenagers involving:

• Science/math/technology instruction

• Improvisational theatre & Writing

• Magical illusion• Outreach to younger children

from Philadelphia• Connect with

underrepresented populations• Repair the misconception of a

dichotomy between creativity in the sciences and arts

• Explore the use of storytelling and re-enactment in the teaching of science

Learning• Science, Math, Theatre, Computer Science,

Computer literacy• Magical illusion workshops• Trip to Academy of Natural Sciences• Scanning Electron Microscope• Library tour - rare books & technology

Practice• Devise skits, plan magic lessons• Plan magic lessons• Develop magic school story• Create characters, props, costumes, music• Create magic school web pages

Weeks 1 & 2Teens Create the Magic School

Week 3: Performing & Teachingfor Young Visitors• Collaboration with City of Philadelphia

Department of Recreation• Adventure begins at 30th St Station,

Philadelphia• Apprentices ride the train to Villanova• Scholars perform as teachers and other school

“personnel”

1. Young visitors get an invitation

to the Magic School

3. Catch a train from track 3 ½

2. You go to the Magic Mall to get

your school supplies

4. Arrive at the Magic School

5. Welcome, banquet and sorting

6. Magic Lessons

7. Graduation and the knight bus home

Computer Science WorkshopsComputer Science Workshops

How did you feel about . . .

4.6

4.9

4.4

3.6

4.6

4.4

3.6

4.3

4.0

4.6

1.0 3.0 5.0

The program overall

The counselors

Theatre

Physics

Chemistry

Magical Illusion

Mathematics

Computer Science

Designing the Magic School

Performing for students

Hated It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Loved It

Overall Assessment

10

4

7

7

12

2

0

0

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

Increase in Interest

Has increased

About the same

Decreased

Increase in Understanding

A Great Deal

Somewhat

Not At All

Recommend Program

Yes

No

Number of Respondents

Villanova University

magicschool.villanova.edu

Mary-Angela Papalaskari Computing SciencesDavid A. Cregan, O.S.A. TheaterAnthony Lagalante ChemistrySue McFarland Metzger Information Systems Alain Phares PhysicsNajib Nadi Computing Sciences

Karen Hess

Science Resources

Robert Styer

MathematicsConnie Titone Educ. & Human Services

Thomas Way Computing SciencesFrancis Wunderlich PhysicsRandy Weinstein Chemical EngineeringNoreen Cameron Office of Service LearningDebbie Kossman National Analysts, Inc.

Research & ConsultingElvira Stewart City of Philadelphia Dept. of RecreationTimshel Purdum Academy of Natural

Sciences PhiladelphiaStephen Cooper St. Joseph’s Univ. & NSF

QuotationsQuotations“It has been awesome here. At first, I was a little hesitant to come, but by the first day, everyone was such great friends. I couldn’t wait to come the next day.”“We had to make stuff up off the tops of our heads.”“It’s surprising how inquisitive little kids can be.”

PhotoshopPhotoshopArtificialArtificial

IntelligenceIntelligence

Alice 3DAlice 3DAnimationAnimation

Web DesignWeb Design

BlogsBlogs

BBSBBS

Visit the scholar’s blog at:

magicschool.electronicfaierie.com