23 November 2010
Pioneering institute puts spark back into science education
Teachers, researchers and lecturers throughout Scotland are set to benefit as Dundee Science Centre becomes the first in Scotland to create a Science Learning Institute.
Through a range of courses, the unique Institute will provide support and professional development for a host of professions, from teachers and research scientists to students, science communicators and museum staff.
The broad portfolio of courses on offer, some of which will be free of charge, will include a science communication course for research scientists, ‘healthy body bits’ course for teachers using a giant ragdoll, and sessions aimed at helping teachers enthuse their pupils in the subjects of sound, nano-science and classic kitchen science.
Welcoming news of the Institute, Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland Professor Anne Glover said, 'Dundee Science Centre is already a great resource for Tayside and Scotland, and the new Institute will strengthen science learning by consolidating existing and new links between the Centre and local education, research and innovation expertise. Helping our young people, their families and the wider public to understand how science affects their lives is critical if Scotland is to maintain its world-leading position on science. This new initiative will play a key role by giving teachers and others the tools they need to bring stimulating and challenging activities into the classroom, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, and complementing the aims of the Scottish Government’s Science and Engineering Education 21 Action Plan in revitalising science learning.'
Meanwhile, Louise Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Dundee Science Centre said, 'As part of our tenth anniversary, we are eager to push the boundaries of Dundee Science Centre and this new Institute is a clear part of our vision to reach out to professionals working in science throughout the area. Whether you’re a nursery or primary school teacher, academic or community educator, we’re determined to help professionals put the spark back into science and ensure that science remains an exciting and subject on which to focus throughout school, college or university, and to keep science relevant and topical for everyone.'
As part of its commitment to enhancing learning for all across the area, Dundee Science Centre will work in partnership with the University of Dundee’s School of Education, Social Work and Community Education, and Dundee College.
Professor Pete Downes, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee said, 'The University is proud to be a partner in the Science Learning Institute continuing our long history of collaboration with the Science Centre. Our school of education, social work and community education works with the science centre to provide high quality science learning for Dundee’s trainee teachers, and will now be delivering CPD to practicing teachers across the Tayside region. The Science Learning Institute will provide tailored opportunities for science learning professionals making a vital contribution to keeping Dundee at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation.'
Meanwhile, Christina Potter, Principal and Chief Executive of Dundee College said, 'Dundee College is delighted to be a partner in Dundee Science Centre’s Science Learning Institute. We welcome the opportunity to play a key role in this innovative collaborative approach to providing inter-disciplinary training and enhanced learning opportunities for science professionals, educators and students at all levels. The Science Learning Institute will add real value to existing science and outreach programmes and will facilitate the further development of science engagement throughout our community.'
The DSC Science Learning Institute will support the Curriculum for Excellence through teacher CPD, promote public engagement with science through science communication training, and support core skills training in further education. Supported by The Matthew Trust, funding has also been awarded by both Dundee City and Perth and Kinross Councils, meaning that teachers in these areas will have access to a range of free-of-charge CPD courses.
For further information on the Science Learning Institute, visit www.sensation-dundee.co.uk/learning or telephone Hannah Crookes, Dundee Science Centre - telephone 01382 868610.
For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07800 581902 |
