MoMath, Museum of Mathematics, Combines Fun and Science
The last month of 2012 brought an interesting launch in Manhattan, New York: MoMath, Museum of Mathematics. Aimed at engaging both kids and adults and show that mathematics applies in daily activities, offering fun ways to understand different notions and providing interesting attractions for kids, MoMath’s launch was a success and it looks like a museum that will attract many visitors in the future.
Indeed many people were terrorized by mathematics in school, and many kids nowadays don’t like this science. Making it easier to understand, presenting concepts in a friendly manner could however be a solution and help adults, and especially kids, better understand mathematics and, who knows, even like it.
The museum has also an official site which offers interesting information. Oh, and this site also provides some fun activities you can download, print and have fun with – check them here. You can find the museum on Facebook too.
From the About page, we find out that: “The National Museum of Mathematics strives to enhance public understanding and perception of mathematics. Its dynamic exhibits and programs will stimulate inquiry, spark curiosity, and reveal the wonders of mathematics. The museum’s activities will lead a broad and diverse audience to understand the evolving, creative, human, and aesthetic nature of mathematics.”
You’ll see geometry presented in bright colors,
you’ll find touch screens with three types of explanations, varying accordingly to a coded card provided for each visitor.
The museum offers also great experiences which help people get mathematics from a different angle and understand notions that for some are similar to abstract. It is all about trying and learning by seeing it.
I admit I liked the Technisches Museum in Vienna and I am a fan of such museums which combine fun and science, making science more accessible to a larger public.
*photos source: the official website of the museum
