Science and Technology Series

The Science and Technology Series is inspired by the daily advances in technology that affect our lives in countless ways. In these programs, students and parents explore aspects of technology and science through demonstrations, lectures, and hands-on workshops led by pioneering scientists, mathematicians, and academic researchers. Please join us for these unique programs specially arranged for CTY students and their families. Programs are for students in grades 7-10 unless indicated otherwise. Cost: Varies by site (see below).

The Day
The typical Science and Technology programs typically run from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The day includes specially-designed workshops and presentations in which scientists share their research and experience. For part of the day, adults may explore the theme of the program in separate, concurrent sessions specifically designed for CTY parents. Families will reconnect for lunch and again at the conclusion of the program to share their experiences from the day's activities. Continental breakfast and lunch are provided unless indicated otherwise.

One-Day Programs   •  Extended Programs
 

Science and Technology Day Programs

International Spy Museum • Washington, DC
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Operation Bug in a Book. If you think spies in films are fascinating, the true story is even more amazing. You’ve just intercepted an encrypted message that leads to the bookshelves in a local library – this is where the secret meeting will take place. Your mission? Listen in on the meeting without blowing your cover. Your tool of choice? A covert wireless listening device embedded in a book. In this spy tech workshop, participants will make their own Bug in a Book. Using soldering irons, wire cutters, and basic electronics, participants will transform an innocent-looking book into a spy tool.  You are perfect for this mission if you like making gadgets, fiddling with electronics, possess a great attention to detail, have a sense of adventure, and are intrigued with the shadow world of spying.  Over lunch, Bob Wallace, former head of the CIA Office of Technical Services will deliver a keynote lecture about the role of science and technology in spying. Morning refreshments and lunch are included. Please note: Because of the planned activities, student to parent ratio for this program is 1:1. For every student that enrolls, only one adult may register.
Cost: $160 per person. Register now

Science and Technology Extended Programs

Ocean Institute • Dana Point, CA
Monday, July 22 – Tuesday, July 23, 2013
This adventure begins with kayaking and hands-on activities at the Ocean Institute’s newest addition, the Maddie James Sea Side Learning Center. Families will explore the anatomy of a mackerel, investigate water chemistry, and examine the adaptations of many animals – from the surface of the ocean to its deepest trenches and abyss. Evening workshops will include dissecting a cow’s eye to explain how nocturnal and deep-ocean dwelling animals see, and learning about bioluminescence, hydrothermal vents, and shark adaptations. The next morning, take a scientific excursion on the Research Vessel Sea Explorer and a guided exploration of the local tide pools. Lunch, dinner, snacks, and breakfast are provided. This program will have two sections—one for students in grades 5–7 and another for students in grades 8–10. There will be separate age-appropriate programming offered in each section.
Cost: $225 per person. Register now

Living Classrooms Foundation • Baltimore, MD
Monday, July 29 – Friday, August 2, 2013
This program takes place aboard the historic skipjack Sigsbee as families delve into issues affecting the Chesapeake Bay such as the decline in blue crabs, the role of oysters, and the affects of urban and agricultural runoff. While on board, you employ scientific equipment to analyze water and marine life. You will learn from scientists, watermen, and government officials, and apply your new knowledge in real-world settings. Each day, you share responsibility of setting up and striking camp, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the ship. While on shore, you perform lab work and investigations to explore topics such as crab anatomy and behavior; estuarine interactions; and predator-prey relationships. Evening activities may include night hikes, games, and campfires. You will leave with a better understanding of the interplay among man, economics, science, and the environment. No previous sailing experience is necessary, but this is a course that requires a certain level of fitness. Program includes all meals for the program length. Families should bring sleeping bags, mats, and pillows as you will be sleeping in tents. Camping facilities vary, but all are primitive—a few have showers, most will not. Fresh water is available for cooking, drinking, and hygiene.
Cost: $675 per person. CLOSED

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