SPINSTRA shakes up learning Published May 26, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Devin Boyer 17th Training Wing Public Affairs SAN ANGELO, Texas -- Goodfellow Air Force Base's 312th Training Squadron Special Instruments Training team visited Lee Middle School to show 8th grade students how science applies to their job in the Air Force May 19. The team demonstrated how a seismometer is used to determine the difference between earthquakes and explosions. They also explained the visible light spectrum as well as infrared light and how the Air Force uses it to identify objects. "We are trying to get ourselves out there more and promote science, technology, engineering and math learning," said Tech. Sgt. Brian P. Ferestad, 312th TRS instructor. "I love talking to kids and students to get them interested in science. The United States is losing the battle in science and math rankings to China and Japan. We have to change that, and if we inspire one student to become a scientist or engineer, we've made an impact." Staff Sgt. James D. Ault, 312th TRS instructor, showed the class how their equipment helps them accomplish their mission. "I taught them how seismic waves propagate through the earth and how we use seismometers to detect them," said Ault. After their presentation, the instructors encouraged the 8th graders to get up and interact with their instruments. "I think our visit was a great success," Ault added. "It was awesome to see the enthusiasm of the students and get to see them interact with all the equipment we brought. I definitely think our visits will become a regular occurrence since we received very positive feedback from the students and teachers."
