Interaction Cubes Make Chemistry Fun!

Science isn’t dull. But it can be, if it’s taught in a passive and monotonous way.

Since 2011 was the International Year of Chemistry, a team of Brazilian designers were presented with a challenge: how to get teenagers interested in chemistry.

They came up with an idea for an interactive installation to get young people interested in the periodic table of the elements. Each element is represented by one cube which fits into a structure mapping the periodic table. On each face of the cube is information on the element: a brief description, a picture, a picture showing how it is used in real life, a scale representation of its atomic radius, and a QR code.

Students can insert the cube into a slot where a scanner reads the code. This triggers a short video to be played about the element. The videos feature Martyn Poliakoff, Research Professor in Chemistry at the University of Nottingham, a popular lecturer noted for his accessible approach to science teaching.

Best of all, made up of simple components (photo cubes, an old TV and PC), the installation is cheap to set up, while a mobile version featuring printed cards only is even cheaper and more portable.

This great installation is a finalist for the 2012 Interaction Design Association Awards. We think it’s great, and wish the team luck!

External link: Interaction Cubes – Museu da Vida on Vimeo