SensoREAL

Topic: In this hands-on team-based activity, students will use cosmetic products to explore the psychological aspects of science. They will learn how the user expectations are integrated into the design and development of beauty products. The students will then design and execute their own sensory testing on two cosmetic products. With the results obtained, they will reflect on the principles of design thinking, for example the rationale and how the results will inform future formula optimization decisions.

Time: 90 minutes; implemented in one session

Materials:

• Pre-Activity Checklist

• Computer with projector

• PowerPoint: SensoREAL

• Tell My Story Form

• Hand wipes or paper towels (for clean-up)

• Pen/pencil, 1 per group of 2

• 2–3 cosmetic products of different texture and type (e.g., lotion, gel, face wash, body scrub, moisturizer)

• SensoREAL Materials, 1 set of the following materials per activity leader (for demonstration) and 1 per student team

  • SensoREAL Sensory test template (student handout)

  • 2–3 small plastic bowls/jar

  • 2–3 ice cream or popsicle sticks (to use as an applicator)

  • 15 mL (1 tsp) of cosmetic sample A

  • 15 mL (1 tsp) of cosmetic sample B

  • 15 mL (1 tsp) of cosmetic sample C

  • Tissue

Estimated cost: Activity leaders can expect to incur less than $10.00 per group (excluding optional items) in materials costs. 3–5 students per group is recommended.