| 10. National projects |
10.1 Didactic method helping to obtain comprehension (T22), Uldis Heidingers |
| Abstract: The Goerudio Project aims to choose the best methods in teaching hard sciences. Consequently, a system was created in Latvia that directly involves students in creating and storing models to gain comprehension of these sciences. This represents a didactic method where by using notions and association skills, students produce their own conclusions on things and natural phenomena. The method gives good results because it stimulates thinking in a non-traditional way. |
10.2 IBL for raising students’ attraction to science (T59), Francesca Ugolini |
| Abstract: The Acariss (Increasing knowledge on environmental issues and pollution risks involving schools in experimental activities) science project developed twelve didactic modules on various environmental issues (carbon dioxide and the greenhouse effect, global warming, eutrophication, plants and salinity, robotics, etc.) following the 5E Instructional Model of Inquiry-Based Learning. In two years, Acariss was used in about 80 classes, involving about 70 teachers and 2000 pupils. |
10.3 Promoting excellence in STEM education (T60), Andrea van Bruggen |
| | Abstract: The presentation will outline the U-Talent Academy and show some examples of U-Talent Academy enrichment topics, in particular from chemistry lessons. Moreover, the results of some studies on the effects of the programme on students will also be presented, with a focus on: their motivation for STEM, their results in the national examinations and their participation in University STEM studies after leaving the Junior College of Utrecht (JCU). There will also be a discussion on what secondary schools and universities can learn from the JCU approach. |
10.4 The Cell EXPLORERS programme (T20), Muriel Grenon |
| Abstract: Cell EXPLORERS is a science outreach and public engagement programme based in the School of Natural Sciences (SNS) at NUI Galway, which aims to inform, inspire and involve the general public in science, technology and research by connecting primary, second level, third and fourth level students, lecturers, researchers and the general public. The programme is based on the establishment of a unique model of sustainable public engagement for higher education institutions. |