HANDS-ON MEMBER ACTIVITIES

Light Lab Workshops

Creative hands-on sessions where SPIE members build, test, explore, and explain optics concepts through simple experiments and collaborative activities.

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What are Light Lab Workshops?

Light Lab Workshops are informal, hands-on activities for SPIE members who want to learn by doing. Members can work with optical kits, build simple demonstrations, test lenses and mirrors, practice explaining concepts, and prepare activities for future outreach events.

Workshop details

Date: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: TBD
Open to: SPIE members and interested UIC students

Learn by doing

Build a Demo

Work with simple materials to create optics demonstrations that can be used in outreach or chapter events.

Trace the Light

Use lenses, mirrors, filters, and light sources to understand how light travels and changes direction.

Explain the Science

Practice turning technical concepts into clear explanations for students, visitors, and non-specialists.

Example workshop stations

Lens & Image Formation

Explore focal length, magnification, and how lenses create real and virtual images.

Mirror Maze

Use mirrors to redirect a light path and visualize reflection angles.

Color, Filters & Spectra

Investigate how filters, colored light, and optical tools change what we see.

Outreach practice station

Members practice explaining optical concepts in a simple and engaging way.

Want to help run a Light Lab?

Members can help design experiments, prepare materials, lead activity stations, or suggest new hands-on ideas. Contact spiechapter@uic.edu using Contact Us above.

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