Trinity College-based materials science research centre Amber has launched Science Live Toolkit, a project that demonstrates how research institutes can organise virtual tours of their centres for primary school children.
During 2015, Amber together with project partners, the Synthesis and Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre (SSPC), the Microscopy Society of Ireland (MSI) and the Royal Microscopical Society (RMS) facilitated Skype visits to Amber’s Advanced Microscopy Laboratory for over 160 students throughout Ireland.
During the virtual tours, pupils were given an insight into a nanoscience research environment by chatting to PhD researchers and learning about electron microscopes. Prior to their virtual visit, their teachers introduced them to the basics of nano and materials science using Amber’s NanoWOW primary resource and the RMS Microscope Activity Kits, which contain light microscopes and pre-packed samples, allowing the classes the opportunity to learn more about microscopy.
Mary Colclough, Amber communications, outreach & public affairs manager, said: “This unique project provided genuine dialogue between primary students and university researchers. It is making science real to school students, giving them access to Ireland’s leading research facilities and scientists, inspiring them to think positively about science careers and the importance of STEM in society.”
Science Live is supported by Science Foundation Ireland through its Discover programme. Schools interested in taking part in Science Live should contact ambersfi13@gmail.com beforet the end of June 2016.
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