space.discussion.Finding+Humor.

Finding Humor.

February 24 2010

A couple weeks back in class, we were given the task of creatively portraying a concept of science. In specific, my group was told to make a rap explaining concentration of acid and its effect upon the brevity of an experiment. This assignment was an outstanding example of how it's really not that difficult to have fun while learning, and that sometimes laughter does the teaching environment some good.

Not only were we all extremely attentive and involved in the presentations other students gave, but the concepts really sunk in. For example, one presentation involved a few students awkwardly patting and hugging eachother to represent the concept of "surface area verses reaction rate". In remembering their demonstration, I consequently remember the ideas- and as laughable as it may sound, I'll remember those guys hugging eachother when I'm answering questions on a test. Humor helps things stick.

Another example was during an experiment in class, where we tested the acidity of different chemicals, using indicators to visually judge the substance's pH. At the conclusion of the experiment, we thought it would be entertaining to mix all the remaining chemicals together (of course with the permision of Ms. Knowles). As we dumped the vegetable oils, lemon juices, and baking soda together, this same thought occured in my head- while there are many moments in science reserved for a serious disposition, there is equally a time reserved for laughter.

Thus it's come to my attention that humor is something that perhaps not always, but occasionaly, I should try to include in my daily work. It cannot be denied that there are times where a level of seriousness is appropriate, for instance a final exam. And of course, safety and maturity should not be comprimised at the expense of innappropriate joke. But science doesn't have to be treated like an anti-fun zone.

Personally, I don't believe i struggle significantly with finding humor. When called to do so, I very well can find something to giggle over. But perhaps what needs to be changed is the times I choose to allow this to happen. Personal experience and the recent constant presence of adults indeed has brought me to the point where I often simply don't choose to laugh, and adopt a more solemn tone- it's simply not appropriate to begin chuckling during a formal performance or during a meeting with administrators. However, after reflecting, I've come the conclusion that I can afford to loosen up a bit. After all, I wouldn't want to miss the oppurtunity to remember something in an absurdly silly way.



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