WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A group of local college students is hoping to encourage the next generation to pursue career fields in science. The teenagers took a break from their own classroom and Eyewitness News Education Reporter Crystal Cranmore was there as they took over another class at a Wilkes-Barre Elementary School

At first glance, it may look like an art lesson...But students at heights elementary school in Wilkes-Barre are actually learning the basics of neuroscience. Wilkes University Neuroscience students traded their own textbooks for the day to teach these children who regularly attend the Luzerne County SHINE after school program.

"Even if they dont fully grasp the concepts, we feel the exposure at an early age will push them toward stem fields " Leana Pande, a Wilkes University Student told Eyewitness News

The first through fourth graders explored the functions of the brain. They made these caps that identify the different sections of the brain. The group seemed to catch on.

"We learned about the parietal lobe..is the sensory information which means help your body determine and react to whats going on if you get surprised. " Explained Quiana Gamble

The students used pipe cleaners to learn about neurons and how they connect to communicate information

SHINE educators try to incorporate project based - or hands learning during their after school lessons to ensure the children are having fun *while* learning. SHINE educators also try to incorporate science, technology, engineering, art, and math -o r STEAM for short - in all of their classes.

Carol Nicholas is the Director of Luzerne County SHINE program, she explained " When we can expose things like this they say we can work in neuroscience.. if we can spark that interest early on, we can start to groom the college freshman of tomorrow"

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