Informal Science Education Intern

Informal Science Education Intern

Task Description: The Demonstration Theaters department provides the opportunity for guests to explore various areas of science through the unique experience of live theater shows and experiments. Interns on the team will aid staff with the smooth and safe delivery of these programs. Interns will also review current theater programs and support the development of new theater presentations. Though this is not an “in-lab” internship, interns should expect to handle chemicals after conducting necessary safety trainings. Interns will be expected to present science content on exhibit gallery floors to Kamin Science Center guests.

This internship will help individuals improve their presentation skills, research skills, and informal education skills. This internship is ideal for those interested in informal education as it relates to physical science, biology, and chemistry. Those who are interested in pursuing a career in teaching and education will gain valuable experience to further their pursuit of that goal.

Responsibilities:

Part One: Project (On going)

1. To make sure that Kamin Science Center guests are receiving the most cutting edge science information, interns will work with the Demonstration Theaters team on revisions to new as well as on going theater programming.

2. Project may include: updating existing theater shows and additional programming, new floor demo, content development, or a research project for potential special programming. Projects will be based on current Demonstration Theater needs.

Part Two: Theater Operations

3. Greet and seat visitors in a friendly manner

4. Interact with visitors in a manner appropriate to the theater atmosphere

5. Gain familiarity with all behind the scenes Works Theater components

6. Assisting staff with the smooth and safe delivery of programming

7. Answer basic questions about the Kamin Science Center and the Works Theater

8. Assist staff with prep and cleanup for each scheduled show which includes, but is not limited to, working with computer tech, various chemicals, and demonstration equipment

9. Direct questions to other staff when needed

10. Operate basic equipment that includes but not limited to Van de Graft generator, liquid nitrogen tank and Dewar, and a full-size Tesla coil, following successful completion of proper safety and operations training

11. Assist with making announcements

12. Responsible for all materials in Volunteer Handbook and Demonstration Theaters Team manual: (ex. Safety and call off procedures, visitor interaction protocols.)

Part Three: Presenting Demonstrations

13. Create and research demonstrations involving science areas of chemistry and physical science.

14. Learn and independently present formal demonstrations as necessary

15. Care and maintenance of props and equipment

16. Assist with training on demonstrations

17. Assist with informal presenting of various demos on gallery floors

18. Other duties as assigned

Skills Required:

· Enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or trades educational program. Open to all majors; Chemistry, Education, Physics or similar track of study is preferred. Lab experience a plus but not required.

· Intern must be able to move about the Science Center to present programming. Accommodations available for interns who cannot stand to present programming.

· Maintain a high level of customer service to the standards of Kamin Science Center

· Interact with visitors and other staff

· Work independently

· Interact with guests from around the world, of different ages and science skills

· Comfortable working with chemicals and advising others on chemical safety and demos

· Willingness to learn and communicate scientific information to guests of all ages

· Reliable, punctual, and dependable

· Genuine personal interest in science and education

Skills to be Learned:

· Skills utilized for lesson planning

· Research skills

· Public speaking skills

· Professional development skills

· Teamwork

· Science knowledge

· Chemical handling

· Customer service skills

Training Methods:

· Interns will observe and shadow performances and operations of the theater.

· Interns will be given scripts, science content background reading, policies, and procedures.

· Trainings are on-going and structured dependent on the needs of the Intern.

· Interns will be evaluated ongoing and upon completion of internship.

Time Frame:

· 120 hours to be completed during the summer and/or semester. Minimum of 10 hours per week with regular weekly commitment required.

Clearances

· Upon acceptance into the program, all interns are required to provide and pay for background checks and clearances. Act 33 and 34 Clearances are free for interns.

· Interns who have lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34).

· Interns who have lived in Pennsylvania for less than 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34) plus an FBI Fingerprint Clearance (Act 114).

TO APPLY: SUBMIT INTERNSHIP APPLICATION TO https://form.jotform.com/260356069035153 where you will also upload your LETTER OF INTENT, RESUME, AND LETTER OF REFERENCE from either an academic advisor or professor. If invited to interview, applicants will be requested to prepare a short, 5-minute, science demonstration on a science topic of their choice, utilizing easily accessible materials they have.