This review dives into the MEL Science STEM kit, a subscription box offering hands-on science experiments for children and families. MEL Science, a UK-based company with US operations, aims to make science engaging and accessible. We'll unbox the kit, explore its contents, and delve into the experiments and accompanying virtual reality experience. We'll assess the quality of the materials, the clarity of instructions, and the overall educational value, examining whether this kit truly lives up to its promise of fostering a love for science. Our assessment will cover the provided equipment, the design and execution of the experiments, the utility of the app, and the surprising effectiveness of the included VR headset.This comprehensive review examines all aspects of the MEL Science experience, from the initial unboxing of the durable starter kit to the interactive elements of the app and the immersive virtual reality component. We'll discuss the ease of use, the safety features implemented, and the overall quality of the materials. We'll also analyze the value offered by the different subscription models and provide an honest assessment of the kit's suitability for various age groups and learning styles. Ultimately, we aim to provide a clear picture of whether the MEL Science STEM kit is a worthwhile investment for parents looking for a fun and educational activity for their children.
Pros And Cons
- Hard plastic experiment tray (not cardboard)
- Includes two pairs of safety glasses (one for adult, one for child)
- Good quality components (funnel, glass speaker, beakers, etc.)
- Includes a burner assembly for heating liquids
- Tablet/phone stand for convenient instruction viewing
- One of the beakers arrived cracked (though a replacement was offered)
- Flexible subscription model (choose subjects and frequency)
- Wide range of science kits across various STEM subjects
- Detailed instructions in booklets and app
- Emphasis on safety
- App QR code scanning had some inconsistencies
- Good 3D VR immersion
- Clear text and interactive menus
- Includes interactive quizzes
Read more: Smartivity Magic of Science Kit Review: 50+ Engaging Experiments for Kids
About MEL Science
MEL Science is a UK-based company with a US subsidiary, offering a leading range of STEM science kits. Their mission is to make everyone love science, a goal reflected in their numerous awards and approvals from expert organizations like the Royal Society of Chemistry and the American Chemical Society.
They offer various subscription models, allowing you to receive one or two experiment boxes per month. Pricing varies based on the billing period, with annual subscriptions offering the best value.
The Starter Lab Kit
The starter kit includes essential lab equipment for all future experiments. It's housed in a durable, hard plastic tray, unlike many cardboard alternatives. The kit contains safety glasses (two pairs!), beakers, test tubes, a funnel, and other useful tools.
A notable inclusion is a solid, well-designed burner assembly for heating liquids, though I experienced a cracked beaker in my initial shipment, which was swiftly replaced by their excellent customer support.
Experiments and Instructions
MEL Science kits typically include 3-4 experiments per box, with detailed instructions available in both a physical booklet and the app. The instructions are well-organized, emphasizing safety, and providing step-by-step guidance with pictures.
Each experiment includes a QR code linking to the app for interactive instructions and additional scientific information. The app also allows you to submit photos of your experiments for review by MEL Science scientists.
The MEL Science App
The app offers a comprehensive user experience, providing access to experiment instructions, interactive 3D models, additional scientific information, and order tracking. It’s also a place to find videos and basic science information about the different experiments and related topics.
The app's QR code scanner allows you to access detailed information on individual components, enriching the learning experience. The integration of the app with the physical kit enhances the accessibility and interactivity of the experiments.
VR Headset and Experience
MEL Science includes a free VR headset with the initial order. While constructed from cardboard, it provides a surprisingly immersive virtual reality experience. The VR experience allows exploration of 3D models, interactive elements, and provides relevant information to experiments.
The clarity of the 3D images, interactive elements, and intuitive interface make it a valuable addition to the kit. It enhances the engagement and understanding of the scientific concepts explored in the experiments.
Conclusion
The MEL Science starter kit offers a high-quality, engaging, and educational experience for both parents and children. The combination of well-designed experiments, comprehensive instructions (both physical and digital), and an immersive VR experience makes it stand out from other science kits.
The durable materials, attention to safety, and responsive customer service further enhance the value proposition. While the cardboard VR headset may seem basic, it delivers a surprisingly high-quality virtual reality experience. Overall, the MEL Science STEM kit is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a fun and educational way to explore science.