The Traveling Science Center (TSC) is a 320-square-foot mobile classroom featuring exhibits on biodiversity, natural and cultural resources, and environmental stewardship. It travels to schools and communities across Illinois, providing a hands-on educational experience for visitors through interchangeable informational panels, interactive displays, props, and handouts.
TSC aims to:
- Promote the mission and research of the Prairie Research Institute, its five State Surveys, and the University of Illinois.
- Provide visitors of all ages with an objective, quality education on natural and cultural resources and environmental stewardship.
- Foster a connection between families, science, and Illinois’ natural and cultural resources.
During school programs, students take a scavenger quiz based on grade level. The quizzes are designed to align with science standards and to engage the students while focusing their attention.
Visits across Illinois
TSC participates in outreach programs, conferences, and events organized by:
- Prairie Research Institute
- Illinois institutions of higher education
- not-for-profit land stewardship agencies (Prairie Rivers Network)
- non-government organizations (IL Audubon)
- nature centers (Anita Purves, Sugar Grove)
- local land management agencies (soil and water conservation districts, forest preserve districts, park districts)
- state land management agencies (IL Department of Natural Resources, IL Environmental Protection Agency)
- federal land management agencies (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)
- youth camps (4-H, Boy and Girl Scout camps)
- Illinois public and private schools
- libraries
- parks
- festivals and fairs
To book a visit or donate to the Traveling Science Center, visit their website: https://go.illinois.edu/TSC.