WORK OF SCIENCE DEPARTMENTS

Press, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22110, 4 June 1937, Page 20

WORK OF SCIENCE DEPARTMENTS

DISPLAY AT CANTERBURY COLLEGE INTEREST AND EDUCATION FOR PUBLIC Although the first appeal of the displays at the annual conversazione of the Canterbury College Scientific Society yesterday would probably be to the general desire to see spectacular and curious experiments, there is no doubt that the public was given an excellent opportunity to gain an idea of the work being done in the science departments of the college. There were large attendances during the afternoon and evening, and the interest shown in the exhibits, demonstrations, and lectures was obvious. The chemistry and physics departments probably provided the most spectacular items. Those entering the physics building were able to switch on a light flashing the word "welcome" by intercepting a beam of light operating a photo-electric cell. More interesting scientific phenomena awaited them inside, and visitors found an opportunity to be astonished, amused, and ecfucated at the same time. The chemistry rooms provided no less in- | teresting displays. The work ol both of these depaxt- ' ments has considerable importance other than in providing academic instruction. The physics department has done a considerable amount of investigation for firms and public bodies in the past, and at present research is being carried out for the broadcasting services. Problems are also sent to the 1 chemistry department for investigation. The corrosion of underground cables has been investigated and a remedy suggested, and the Drainage Board has submitted various problems for consideration. The work of the biology department was shown by a large number of displays illustrating the physiology and life history of various forms of animal life and interesting features of plant life. This department has done very valuable work for the Freshwater Research Committee, and has received wide acknowledgement of the research carried out. ' The geology department also offered a wide range of displays. This department also carries out work for outside organisations. The lecturer, Dr. R. S. Allan, has received various ores and minerals for investigation and has also done work for oil prospecting. The work of the psychology department in relation to industry has been very much before the public in recent years. The interest of the demonstrations given yesterday lay largely in seeing the tests that are carried out for vocational guidance and selection and in the determination of special abilities. So many firms and other employing bodies and school authorities send young people for tests that the department has more work than it can handle. In some cases, too, magistrates have sent offenders for psychological tests. In vocational tests a considerable amount of work is done for the Boys' Employment Committee, which at its last annual meeting discussed the possibility of extending work of this kind. Lectures were given during the day as follows: —"The Waimakariri River," Dr. G. Jobberns; "Colour Blindness," Professor I. L. G. Sutherland; "Marine Biology," Professor E. Percival; "Volcanoes," Dr. R. S. Allan; "Tests of Educable Capacities," Mr A. J. Campbell. Professor F. G. W. White and Dr. H. G. Denhamgave demonstrations with liquid air.