High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2026

Ferrofluids: Magnetic Liquids in Motion

Ferrofluids: Magnetic Liquids in Motion

Streaming Media

Course Code

SPC

Course Number

1603H

Faculty/Instructor

Dr. Adam J. Parrish

Faculty/Instructor Email

adam.parrish@ucf.edu

About the Author

We are STEM students in the Burnett Honors College at the University of Central Florida and have worked on this project through our technical communications class. We share a passion for science and were deeply excited to bring the fascinating qualities of ferrofluids into the classroom for students to witness. 

We are extremely grateful to Dr. Parrish for his continuous guidance and assistance. Additionally, we would like to thank Renee Johnston for her indispensable support as our primary contact at the Center for Initiatives in STEM (iSTEM), and for her role in managing an incredibly successful STEM Day. Lastly, thank you to the Burnett Honors College for the opportunity to complete this project. 

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

This project consisted of designing and presenting a lesson on ferrofluids to elementary and middle school students during UCF STEM Day. We used hands-on demonstrations, engaging examples, and audience questions to help maximize audience retention and attention. Presenting to groups of younger students allowed us to develop skills in adapting information to a less familiar audience. We also gained insight into classroom management and adapting to sudden obstacles. By presenting the topic of ferrofluids, we were effectively able to teach students about an entertaining liquid that has many real-world applications and, therefore, help them engage with STEM. This engagement is intended to encourage the students to develop further interest in STEM fields as they continue their academic development.

Keywords

Ferrofluids; Science; Physics; Chemistry; Magnets; Magnetism; STEM; Learning; SPC1603H; Burnett Honors College

Ferrofluids: Magnetic Liquids in Motion


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Accessibility Statement

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