Eye Opener Volunteer

Description

For more than 40 years, the Museum of Science has been working with the Boston Public Schools to bring the exciting world of science to second grade students from across the city. Each year, 3000 students from over 45 Boston schools visit the Museum to explore, ask questions, and find answers. Since 1986, generosity from the Germeshausen Family Foundation has supported the Eye opener program in providing a guided museum experience for second graders.

With the help of a large corps of volunteers, the program introduces these students to the Museum and gives them a chance to engage in science. The volunteers act as guides for groups of 2 to 5 students and provide individual attention and a warm, personal atmosphere that helps the children feel at home in the Museum. Eye Opener volunteers encourage exploration and the excitement of discovery as they share the Museum with the children. They achieve these goals through conversation, hands on experimentation, exploration of exhibits, and practicing scientific thinking skills with program participants.

Responsibilities

Each Tuesday morning, the students are grouped into sets of 2 to 5 and paired with a single volunteer for a tour of the Museum. Tours last approximately two hours and are tailored to the interests of the students. Learn the lay-out of the Museum to share and explore with second graders the exhibits which may be interesting to them. Encourage children to observe, compare, describe, ask questions and expand and share ideas. Learn Museum emergency procedures. Attend ongoing training and support through weekly in-service workshops on science or program-related topics. Mentor the Eye Opener Youth volunteers. Volunteer with a diverse and committed team.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum age requirement of 18 years old Patience, sensitivity, and understanding of youth Willingness to work with young children of all backgrounds Interest in informal science education

Additional Details

Commitment

Tuesday mornings (9:30-12:30) throughout the school year ONLY (October - June) or on a semester basis. Minimum of four to six months

Training

Attendance of a Mandatory New Volunteer Orientation is required.

How To Apply

Become part of our volunteer team! To apply, please print the appropriate volunteer application below, complete it, and mail it to our Office of Volunteer Services:

Mail to:

Office of Volunteer Services Museum of Science Science Park Boston, MA 02114-1099

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Museum of Science seeks to recruit, hire, develop, promote, and retain individuals from racially and culturally diverse backgrounds and persons with disabilities. We strive to create and sustain a more affirming environment for all staff, interns, volunteers, trustees and overseers. We value expertise gained at the Museum and encourage professional development and career growth.