CoSA – Center of Science Activities, Graz
Visiting CoSA was such a cool experience, I was planning to do it for a long time, and it seemed like a perfect opportunity to somehow try to connect it to my research topic for my master thesis. The center is all about making science fun and hands-on, which got me thinking about how learning tools can be more engaging for kids, especially those with different needs.
CoSA has all kind of exhibits that approached different scientific topics, like math and physics. Instead of feeling like I was just passing through and absorbing information, I was actively involved in the learning process—solving puzzles, treating patients, building my own car… it felt more like a game than a lesson. All of this reminded me how important it is to make learning fun, rather than something stressful or overwhelming. This visit showed me that when learning is designed to be playful, it becomes more intuitive and natural for everyone.
I was really looking forward to checking out the AR exhibition, but unfortunately it was closed when I visited. I can only imagine how augmented reality could add another layer to these interactive experiences, and it made me think about the potential of digital tools in education.
I have to admit, I completely lost track of time while I was there. I felt like a kid again, excited to try everything. This made me realize how powerful interactive learning can be when it’s done right. It doesn’t just teach, it pulls you in, making you want to explore more. That’s exactly the kind of experience I want to create for my master thesis, learning that feels natural and fun.
What I Took Away From This Visit:
- Multi-Sensory Learning Works
CoSA does a great job of making science interactive by engaging different senses. This really connects to my research, especially for kids with autism. - Hands-On Learning is More Engaging
Instead of just looking at information, visitors at CoSA get to experiment and explore. This made me think about how learning tools should focus more on interaction rather than passive learning.
My visit to CoSA really reinforced the idea that learning should be interactive, inclusive, and engaging. Seeing these concepts in action gave me a lot of ideas for my own research, and I hope to apply some of these insights to the educational tools I design in the future.