MHI Conducted Science Classes on "Seeing Invisible Power" at the Local Konan Elementary School

The classes were conducted with the cooperation of the NPO Kodomo Uchu Mirai Association (KU-MA). Six booths were set up in two classrooms where experiments were carried out relating to magnets and static electricity, and the students took turns visiting the various booths. In one, the students created a car that they proceeded to move using magnetic force. In another, they experimented using iron sand to see magnetic lines of force. Other booths dealt with the properties of static electricity, a subject not included in the standard elementary school curriculum. Inclusion of these experiments was intended to illustrate an invisible force of a different kind. The students learned how static electricity can move an onion, banana or water, and they also experimented causing toys made of straws or toothpicks to move.

After participating, many children expressed how much they enjoyed the experience. "Making a vegetable move by an invisible force was really interesting - like magic!" one marveled. "I enjoyed doing so many experiments we normally don't get a chance to do," enthused another. "I really learned a lot of things I didn't know before," said another. MHI hopes the classes will induce young people to have greater interest in science.

The MHI Group plans to continue offering science classes like these in the future, as a way of nurturing children's interest in science and technology.