Gifted children introduced to Marine Technology

News - 14 August 2023 - Webredactie 3mE

The faculty building, which had been somewhat empty during the summer holiday, was enlivened by the visit of 40 enthusiastic children of above-average intelligence. The group was given an interactive introduction to the world of Marine Technology.

How can a ship sail without a captain in the future? What is the effect of high waves on a floating structure? The children and young people, between the ages of 9 and 14, were first given a tour and demonstration of the RAS laboratory and towing tank. They asked critical questions about, among other things, the operation of a battery-powered vessel and the benefits of autonomous sailing.

It was wonderful to see these young people working together so enthusiastically. That’s usually quite a challenge for them.

Facilitator

In the second half of the morning, the children were given the opportunity to work themselves. After a theoretical explanation of buoyancy and stability, they were allowed to try their hand at designing a floating wind turbine using simple materials. They enthusiastically came up with various creations using paper cups and skewers. The group that built the structure with the greatest moment of force was declared the winner.

I didn’t expect such a simple design adjustment to make such a huge difference to the stability.

Pupil