In this episode of the Tech Explorations podcast, host Peter Dalmaris sits down with Jacob Strickling, a mechanical engineer turned science educator with a passion for making science accessible and engaging for students of all ages. Jacob's journey from a curious child experimenting with candles and matches at the kitchen table to a seasoned science teacher and founder of Make Science Fun is both inspiring and enlightening.

Jacob spent 24 years teaching science in traditional classrooms, where he observed a significant gap in hands-on practical experiences for students. Determined to bridge this gap, he founded Make Science Fun, a company dedicated to providing educational science services. His innovative approach led to the creation of Tiny Science Lab, a venture that miniaturizes traditional science equipment, making it more accessible and safer for students, particularly those in homeschool and distance education settings.

Peter and Jacob delve into the origins of Tiny Science Lab, tracing its roots back to a simple Instagram post that sparked Jacob's interest in small-scale science equipment. This curiosity led to the development of a range of tiny science tools, including a miniature Bunsen burner, which has revolutionized the way practical science is taught at home and in schools. Jacob shares his experiences of testing these tools with homeschool groups and the surprising realization that even well-equipped schools prefer his compact, efficient equipment.

The conversation also explores Jacob's teaching philosophy, which emphasizes hands-on learning and scientific thinking. He believes in engaging students through practical experiments before delving into theoretical concepts, a method that fosters curiosity and a deeper understanding of scientific principles. Jacob recounts various experiments that challenge common sense and encourage students to think critically, highlighting the importance of unbiased experimentation and the scientific method.

Jacob's innovative approach extends beyond chemistry to include electricity and physics sets, all designed with simplicity and practicality in mind. He discusses the role of technology, particularly laser cutters, in streamlining the production of his educational kits, and the importance of making quick decisions and learning from mistakes in the development process.

Looking ahead, Jacob hints at exciting developments, including a major TV appearance that promises to bring wider recognition to Tiny Science Lab. He welcomes the prospect of competitors entering the market, viewing it as a positive step towards transforming practical science education globally.

For those interested in learning more about Jacob Strickling and Tiny Science Lab, visit www.tinysciencelab.com.au. Jacob's dedication to making science fun, practical, and accessible is sure to inspire educators, parents, and students alike.
Join Peter and Jacob in this engaging episode as they explore the intersection of education, innovation, and the joy of scientific discovery.