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The Power of Storytelling Benches: A New Bench Mark for Advancing Science

Writer's picture: Denetra HamptonDenetra Hampton

Updated: Feb 8

Imagine a place where nature, education, and storytelling come together. This is the vision behind storytelling benches in our parks. These benches do more than offer a place to rest; they spark curiosity about the health sciences. By incorporating engaging narratives related to science and and those who have contributed to it, they transform park visits into unforgettable learning experiences.


The Bench Mark For Science Project

In essence, the Bench Mark For Science Project sets to strengthen knowledge of history, and celebrate our sciences. Each bench features stories about scientific concepts, and historical events that engage visitors. For example, a bench might recount the story of a local hero who contributed to curing a disease.




The Importance of Place-Based Learning

Storytelling benches embody place-based learning, which emphasizes the local environment as a context for education. According to research, nearly 90% of students report a stronger connection to their community when their learning is tied to local resources. When visitors engage with their surroundings, they develop a genuine appreciation for their natural habitats.


Experiential learning enhances this connection. By incorporating storytelling, these benches offer an engaging way to promote scholarship and community resources.


Enhancing Community Engagement

A key goal of the storytelling bench project is to encourage community involvement. By inviting local storytellers, scientists, and educators to contribute, these benches become collaborative hubs for sharing knowledge.


Locals can share their own stories, creating a rich tapestry of local knowledge. This collaborative effort not only enhances the narrative but also fosters pride among community members. People begin to view parks as living classrooms, where curiosity thrives, encouraging ongoing exploration and learning.





Breaking Barriers to Scientific Understanding

For many, science and history can seem intimidating. Storytelling benches serve as a friendly introduction to complex topics. For example, a visitor sitting on a bench can listen to the history and of a bench and how it has inspired and empowered the health sciences in some form, making the concept of health science relatable and engaging.


By using familiar stories tied to local contexts, these benches make science accessible to everyone. This innovative approach invites people from all backgrounds to appreciate the beauty of science in their community but most importantly, it advances the science.




Eye-level view of a storytelling bench in a park surrounded by greenery
A storytelling bench inviting visitors to explore history and science

THE BENCH MARK FOR SCIENCE PROJECT

The Bench Mark For Science Project Committee is dedicated to enhancing awareness in the health sciences by empowering education through scientific storytelling, embodying the essence of contemporary scientific exploration.


Let's celebrate the potential of storytelling benches and join the journey to promote science in our communities. By merging engaging narratives with outdoor experiences, we can foster a deeper connection to the science that surrounds us.


Stay connected as we reveal our very first project



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