Excited About Science
Place: Cafe Tartine (BTS Pleonchit)
Date: Wednesday, Feb 29, 2012
Time: 19:00-21:00
RSVP: [email protected] or BKKSci on Meetup.com
If you’ve ever taught school in Thailand (and many of you probably have at some point), you know that compared to western countries, Thailand’s education system can often seem frustrating and somewhat restricted. Far be it from BkkSci to propose that the structure of western education is perfect (which it certainly isn’t), but the difference is often summed up in one sentence: Thai students are not taught to analyze; they are taught to memorize.
But thanks to several factors, the tide is slowly starting to change. One big one is the simple fact that Thais today have easier access to almost limitless amounts of information than at any time in human history. The other reason is people like Dr. Pongskorn “Ko” Saipetch, one of Thailand’s leading science advocates. He has a B.S. in Physics from Caltech and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Physics from UCLA and his interests can conservatively be described as ‘everything’. One of his biggest goals is to get kids excited about science. “Young kids are natural scientists, but curiosity and creativity tend to disappear as they age,” he says. “Being scientifically illiterate is costly – so how do we get kids to maintain their scientific curiosity?”
Dr. Saipetch will talk about his own experiences growing up, and discuss his efforts – both failures and successes – with trying to foster an environment where analytical thinking, curiosity, and experimentation aren’t simply things that Thai children must do; they’re things that Thai children want to do. And that can make all the difference for the next generation.
This event is free
All BKKSci events are free of charge. We do however ask that you please consider supporting Cafe Tartine (our venue) by purchasing your choice of food and drink during the event. Cafe Tartine has kindly agreed to host BKKSci free of charge. This is our way of thanking them for their support.
How to get there
Cafe Tartine is located on Soi Ruamrudee at Athenee Residence (65 Wireless Rd., Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330). The cafe is a but a short walk from BTS Ploenchit. Parking is limited but available.
Image curtesy: Pongskorn Saipetch