Gr. 7 students at St. Mary School had the opportunity to learn about energy efficient buildings today at the Western Development Museum.
The exhibit is presented by the Saskatchewan Environmental Society (SES). Karla Rasmussen, education and public programs coordinator with the Western Development Museum, says they have a great partnership with the SES.
"Sometimes it seems like an abstract thought to have science in a history museum, but there are ways we can tie that in," said Rasmussen. "This part with the workshops is very specific about net zero homes and how to retrofit homes that are already in existence. The second part of this is the students will go into the museum itself and they will look at some of the building replicas, as well as the museum facility itself. They will ask if energy is escaping out the museum door. They will ask what kind of insulation would have been used in the mechanic's shop back in the 1900s, that sort of thing."
The students moved from station to station, taking everything in.
"They are learning about how to make things energy efficient, how to hold heat in a house, and different types of renewable energy sources," said teacher Jenni Senger. "They are the future and they are responsible for taking care of the earth, so they should know how to do that...This is cool. It looks like it was recently updated. I like that it is hands-on; it reminds me of the Science Centre in Regina."
Student Callie Klemenz says it was a fun and educational opportunity.
"My favourite station has been the one on lighting and appliances. It was really fun; we got to see what all the lights do and how much energy they use," said Klemenz. "This is important because it keeps the environment healthy."
Other schools will have an opportunity to take in the program. This is made possible in part thanks to SaskEnergy, who will provide bus service.
