By Jordan Phillips, Contributing Writer
Peachtree – Tri-County Community College welcomed all Hayesville Middle School eighth-grade students to campus on Oct. 16 for an exciting day of hands-on science exploration through the NCBioNetwork’s EASE – Effective Authentic Science Event – program.
The EASE program is a one-day outreach event designed to expose middle school students to nontraditional STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics – careers while introducing them to their local community college as a great first choice for STEM education.
During the event, students participated in an interactive, mystery-based learning experience that combined video storytelling with realistic lab activities. After watching a short film that set the stage for a mock crime scene investigation, students transformed into forensic scientists for the day by analyzing evidence and conducting experiments to solve the mystery.
Under the guidance of TCCC faculty, staff and representatives from NCBioNetwork, students performed a variety of forensic tests, including electrophoresis, chromatography, blood typing, tread analysis and powder identification. These activities gave students the opportunity to learn how real-world science is used to solve crimes while gaining exposure to laboratory techniques and critical thinking skills.
TCCC faculty and staff said they were glad to host the event, noting that programs like EASE give students a hands-on look at science and technology.
The event highlighted TCCC’s ongoing commitment to fostering curiosity, exploration and education in the region. By collaborating with local schools and organizations like NCBioNetwork, TCCC continues to inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators and problem-solvers right here in the mountains.
The writer is Digital Media & Web Communications coordinator at Tri-County Community College.