Turntables
Turntables are a collaborative group activity that provides an open-ended platform for experimenting with rotational forces, momentum and the nature of orbits. This exhibit is flexible in both its physical setup and content, allowing easy changes to address different learning styles, group sizes, and physical locations. Three units can be clustered for a larger group collaborative experience or they can be placed separately for a more personal group activity.
The use of different loose objects on the Turntable directly affects learning outcomes and content connections. Rings and disks are great for exploring gyroscopic forces; balls are good for visualizing orbits, and paper and pencils demonstrate rotational patterns. This exhibit is also great for encouraging intergenerational interactions and conversation.
Themes:
Physics, Rotational Inertia, Newton’s Laws of Motion, Collaboration
Location:
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, Santa Barbara, CA
Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Atlanta, GA
Exhibit concept designs provided by Gyroscope Inc.