Physics in the Public Square: University Extension as a Strategy for Integrating Physics Education and Science Communication

TL;DR

This paper discusses a university-led physics outreach activity in a public space, using low-cost experiments to enhance science communication, student learning, and community engagement.

Contribution

It introduces a novel outreach approach integrating didactic experiments with social responsibility in physics education.

Findings

Significant improvement in student communication skills.

Enhanced community interest in physics concepts.

Strengthened university's social role through outreach.

Abstract

University extension activities play a fundamental role in bridging the gap between academia and society by fostering the socialization of scientific knowledge. This study reports and analyzes an outreach activity conducted in a public space, involving undergraduate students enrolled in Physics I, Physics III, and Physics IV courses within the Physics Teacher Education Program at the State University of the Tocantina Region of Maranhao (UEMASUL). The activity was developed through the design and presentation of didactic experiments using low-cost materials. Its main objectives were to disseminate fundamental physics concepts to the community, stimulate public interest in science, and provide pre-service teachers with a formative experience integrating theory, practice, and social responsibility. Data were collected from questionnaires adminisvelopment of communication skills, and the strengthening of the university's social role, while also fostering scientific curitered to visitors (n = 52). The results indicate that the activity significantly contributed to student learning, the deosity among participants.