The Saturday University is kicking off its third semester. The doubling of participant numbers—which was already observed last year (an average of 30 students participated in 2014–15)—has continued this year as well: 62 students, mostly from 10th-grade classes at various high schools, attended the opening event on November 7. The event was organized by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering.
In his lecture, Prof. Volkmar Weise spoke about similarities between nature and technology. He focused on flying machines and their models in nature: birds. The highly engaging lecture included formulas, numerous photos, and hands-on demonstrations.
After a short break with delicious lemonade—which, fortunately, as in previous years, was provided free of charge by the company Menschel-Limo from Hainewalde—laboratory tours took place. Laboratory engineer Felix Rothe had asked his colleagues for extra help at the last minute so that the students could experience the diversity of the faculty in as small groups as possible.
Production Engineering Laboratory
Manufacturing Measurement Technology Laboratory
Materials Engineering Laboratory
Energy Technology Cabinet
Thermodynamics Laboratory
Fluid Mechanics Laboratory
Thermohydraulics Laboratory
Many thanks to all colleagues who helped with the lab tours.In his feedback on the visit to the Energy Technology Lab, colleague Wodarczack writes:
“In good spirits and with great interest, the (perhaps) 10 aspiring female engineers showed enthusiasm for the former Zittau Teaching and Research Reactor as well as the experiments with the fuel cell from the Renewable Energy Technology department. Only the train schedule prevented them from staying longer, which for some even ended with a musical serenade.”
The next “High School at the University” event on Saturday will take place on January 23 in Görlitz . The department of computer science will then host sessions on the following parallel topics: “Making the Right Decisions Is Computer Science” and “Immersive Experience—Interacting with the Environment via Smartphone.” So far, 67 students have registered.
Highlights from the opening event:





Photos: Robert Viertel and Felix Rothe, HS
What exactly is the “Saturday Student University”?
High school students in grades 9 and above are invited to immerse themselves in the exciting world of engineering, natural sciences, and economics on five Saturdays between November 2015 and April 2016. The hosting faculty for each session prepares a specific topic and provides students with interesting insights into both theory and practice (laboratories). Students may participate in all sessions or select specific topics.
Each session begins at 10 a.m. in the “
” with an introductory session lasting about one hour. After a break for refreshments, lab tours and/or experiments will take place until 12:30 p.m. at the latest.
Students must register in advance at www.hszg.de/schuelerhochschule. Additional information on each topic is also available there.
Participating students will receive a certificate of participation from Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences after the events they attend.
Contact:
Robert Viertel
Center for Knowledge and Technology Transfer
Phone: 03583 612-4356
Email: weiterbildung(at)hszg.de