The Hands on Science Center at the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of American History

In the award-winning Hands On Science Center at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, Behring Center, families and school groups can experience real science in a historical context. This unique approach engages visitors actively in exploring the interactions between science and society. Families can use historic evidence and/or scientific tests to explore the conservation of the Star-Spangled Banner, extract DNA from a cellular solution, test beverages for food dye and vitamin C, or conduct a 19th-century test for water pollutants at the Lab Bench, assisted by volunteers and staff.

At tables and stations throughout the room, visitors can work independently to measure distance with a laser, determine the radioactivity of objects, investigate global temperature change through a computer program, or solve a crime with DNA profiling techniques. Those unable to visit the Museum can pariticpate in two interactive online hands-on science activities, Mirror Molecules and You Be the Conservator: Looking at Objects Inside and Out.

The Center also offers programs for teachers and school groups. Week-long teacher seminars are offered in the summer, and shorter workshops are conducted throughout the school year. Teachers of grade 3 and above can schedule a Hands On Science school program that features the activities described in the previous paragraph in one of five themes: Women in Science, Science All around You, Twentieth Century Science and Beyond, Improving Everyday Life through Science (1888-1920), and Water Wonderworks: Testing the Waters.