Outreach

One of the longest and deepest traditions surrounding the University of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Idea signifies a general principle: that education should influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the classroom. Synonymous with Wisconsin for more than a century, this “Idea” has become the guiding philosophy of university outreach efforts in Wisconsin and throughout the world.

Whether it’s hosting the longest-running hands-on science museum or introducing new programs like the Wonders of Quantum Physics, our department has a long and proud tradition of fulfilling the Wisconsin Idea through physics outreach. The initiatives below are just a few of the ways in which members of the department engage with the public.

Physics outreach is overseen by the department’s Outreach, Communications, Web Content & Museum committee, which includes: Profs. Victor Brar (chair), Uwe Bergmann, Bob Joynt, Lu Lu, and Dan McCammon; staff members Cierra Atkinson, Elizabeth Baldridge, Mallory Conlon, Haddie McLean, Steve Narf, Susan Nossal, Sarah Perdue, and Chad Seys; and graduate student Scott Lucchini.

The Ingersoll Physics Museum

The Ingersoll Physics Museum exhibits give our guests a hands-on experience of physical concepts ranging from mechanics to modern physics in a demonstrational, kid-friendly environment.

The Wonders of Physics

The Wonders of Physics includes annual in-person shows and a traveling show that comes to you! Shows are fast-paced, engaging, and educational physics programs, filled with demonstrations that help people better understand the physics in the world around them while having fun at the same time.