In the vibrant town of Vitry-sur-Seine, nestled in the Val-de-Marne department of France, lies a hidden gem that promises a journey through the wonders of science, technology, and digital culture. The Exploradôme, an interactive museum founded in 1998 by the visionary physicist Goéry Delacôte, has been captivating minds and sparking curiosity for over two decades. Since its relocation in 2009 to a modern and spacious building in Vitry-sur-Seine, the museum has expanded its reach and impact, making it a must-visit destination for families, students, and science enthusiasts alike.
The story of Exploradôme begins with the establishment of the association Savoir Apprendre in 1997 by Goéry Delacôte, a renowned physicist and science communicator. Delacôte's mission was to promote innovative science education through interaction and experimentation. His vision was encapsulated in his book Savoir Apprendre, which laid the conceptual framework for the museum. Delacôte believed in making science accessible and engaging, particularly for young audiences. We transmit the desire to learn. At the Exploradôme, we discover, explore together, and learn to reason. This is essential for building the intellectual autonomy of citizens, he said.
Upon entering the Exploradôme, visitors are greeted with a plethora of interactive exhibits designed to make learning a hands-on experience. The museum boasts over fifty interactive devices that allow visitors to explore various scientific themes such as climate, energy, movement, optical illusions, and geometric structures. Each exhibit invites visitors to discover science through experimentation and manipulation, making complex concepts accessible and fun.
The ground floor, known as the Salle des Manips, is the heart of the museum's permanent exhibition. Here, visitors can engage with a wide range of interactive exhibits. From creating a tornado and observing a magnetic cloud to capturing their shadow on the wall and experiencing mind-bending optical illusions, the exhibits are designed to ignite curiosity and foster a love for science. The themes covered in this space include:
The Green Path, in particular, emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental conservation. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, visitors learn about energy, water, weather, and the importance of preserving natural resources. This theme permeates the entire space, highlighting the significance of protecting the environment through concrete actions.
The first floor of the Exploradôme is dedicated to temporary exhibitions and the digital hall. The temporary exhibition space hosts interactive exhibits that change annually, allowing visitors to explore new scientific, technological, and societal themes. These exhibitions are designed to evolve, offering a fresh experience for regular visitors while addressing contemporary issues.
The digital hall is a hub for digital literacy and creativity. Equipped with 15 PC workstations, a 3D printer, and an Interactive Whiteboard, this space is perfect for hands-on workshops and training sessions. The digital hall regularly hosts courses for children and adults, covering topics such as programming, digital music creation, and digital tinkering. It also serves as a versatile space for adult education, meetings, and co-working activities.
The second floor of the Exploradôme is home to two scientific workshop rooms, specifically designed for educational activities. These spaces are equipped to accommodate school groups from kindergarten to high school, offering activities tailored to different learning levels. The workshops cover a variety of scientific disciplines, including biology, astronomy, chemistry, and biodiversity, and encourage the use of innovative technologies.
The pedagogical approach at Exploradôme emphasizes inquiry-based learning, group collaboration, and hands-on experimentation. These workshops complement the school curriculum by offering practical and interactive approaches to exploring new themes or reinforcing classroom learning in a fun and engaging way.
In addition to its permanent and temporary exhibitions, Exploradôme offers a catalog of traveling exhibitions designed to reach a wider audience across France. These exhibitions bring the museum's interactive approach to science education to communities beyond Vitry-sur-Seine, spreading the joy of discovery and learning to even more people.
The Exploradôme is conveniently located just a six-minute walk from the Musée MAC VAL station on the Île-de-France tramway line 9. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the Paris region, the museum is easily accessible and well worth the trip.
In conclusion, the Exploradôme is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant center of learning and exploration. Its interactive exhibits, engaging workshops, and commitment to making science accessible to all make it a unique and enriching destination. Whether you're a curious child, a budding scientist, or simply someone with a thirst for knowledge, the Exploradôme offers a world of discovery waiting to be explored.
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