Fourteen teens, ages 13-16, were given an unusual charge -make the story come to life by creating an "American School of Magic" and invite groups of younger inner-city children,"apprentices," to "enroll" in their magic school.
SEPTA's R5 starred in the role of the magic train, which transported the apprentices to school, complete with witches that "sold" magical treats such as chocolate-covered wands and funky-flavored jelly beans during the 25-minute ride to the Villanova campus. Also part of the plot was Amtrak's 30th Street Station, which provided the setting for the "Magical Supplies Mall," where the apprentices visited the "Magic Bank" to get their "wizard money" and their school supplies.
The scholars, the 14 older students in the program, created the concept of the school complete with name, imagery, signs and artwork; also the lessons and all the dramatic characters. They directed the performances and acted all the roles. Three performances were given to groups of 30-45 inner-city children who visited Villanova for a day of magical adventure.
"Science is one of the most creative things one can do, and I wanted to get this across to the kids. I wanted to spark their curiosity and lead them to view science and college in general as an engaging, fun, and creative endeavor," said Mary-Angela Papalaskari, a computing science professor who co-directed the program.
The magic-school project brought together faculty from the sciences, mathematics, computing science and theater. The magic lessons were taught by professor Tom Way, who teaches computer science, but who is also a performing magician. The multidisciplinary team of faculty went a long way toward debunking the myths and stereotypes of scientists being "boring" or "nerdy."
In preparation for their roles in the creation of the magic-school performances, the scholars attended chemistry, physics, math, computer science, theater, Native American culture and magical illusion classes taught by Villanova faculty.
The popularity of the Harry Potter books has led to the development of many programs that aim to leverage the young readers' enthusiasm to the science behind magic.
"Like others, we saw this as a great opportunity, and then we took it a few steps further, by adding the theater classes and using actual train stations to provide a dramatic setting," said professor Sue McFarland Metzger, co-director of the program.
Performing the drama as an outreach to inner city children provided another important dimension to the educational experience. "Outreach is an integral part of our program because it empowers student teachers and inspires student learners," added Karen Hess, executive director of Science Resources, a local, non-profit science education organization that helped organize the summer program.
Other supporting organizations included Philadelphia's Department of Recreation, CONGRESO, a non-profit organization that provides support to the Hispanic community in Philadelphia, and Cornerstone Academy, a school that serves families in North Philadelphia. SEPTA and Amtrak officials guided the Magic School Train along Track 3 ½ so that it didn't disrupt the regular commuter traffic. Quite a trick!
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