Fifth grade students from the Dámaso Zapata Technical Educational Institution had an unforgettable day touring the renovated facilities of the Natural History Museum of the Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS), a space that combines didactic, sound and visual learning about the biodiversity and ecosystems of the department of Santander.
During the tour, the children explored the new Exhibition Hall, which offers a multisensory experience thanks to its immersive design with ambient sound and robotic lights. In this room, characteristic ecosystems of the region are recreated, allowing them to learn about the flora and fauna, the sounds typical of each habitat and reflect on the impact of climate change.
“This room is completely new, it contains immersive sound and robotic lights that allow for a unique sensory experience. Currently, we have seven ecosystems where we address issues such as biodiversity and climate change. In addition, we have more than 400 taxidermied specimens, collected over the years, which enrich our educational display,” explained Sergio Andrés Marchant Rojas, director of the School of Biology and the Exhibition Hall of the UIS Natural History Museum.
The accompanying teachers highlighted the educational value of this activity, which allowed the students to reinforce topics covered in class and foster greater environmental awareness.
“We lived a magical experience. We want to thank the rector and the University for this invitation. The children had close contact with nature, they were able to observe animals, learn about their characteristics and listen to the sounds typical of their habitats. As a teacher, I believe that these spaces are fundamental for learning,” said Johana Arias, a teacher at the Dámaso Zapata school.
The students, for their part, were enthusiastic about the tour. Many of them saw for the first time animals they only knew from books, which awakened in them a deep interest in protecting the environment.
“I thought it was very beautiful and magical. We learned many new things with my classmates. I really liked the little animals, and being able to listen to them gave the tour a special touch,” commented Luciana Villamizar, a student at the Dámaso Zapata school, excitedly.
“We have to take care of nature, because if we don’t, we will become extinct. Thank you very much to the UIS for inviting us,” added Juan Ibarra, also a student at the Dámaso Zapata school.
The new Exhibit Hall of the UIS Museum of Natural History will open to the public on Monday, April 21. Those who wish to visit it may request information and make reservations by writing to museohis@uis.edu.co.
