3 March 2011

Scottish Education Minister officially opens science learning institute

Dundee Science Centre's growing contribution to Scotland’s education sector was cemented this week when the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning officially launched its unique Science Learning Institute, which the University is heavily involved in.

Unveiling its first course late last year, the SLI has already provided training programmes for 300 teachers, scientists and museum educators throughout Scotland. While university researchers have received training in science communication, primary teachers have explored 'the physics of sound' and secondary teachers have discovered how to facilitate topical science discussions in the classroom. The Institute has received 'staggering interest' and plans to recruit its 400th 'student' by summer.

Launching the SLI, Michael Russell MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning said, "Scotland's science centres occupy a unique position at the heart of the science learning community. This gives them a golden opportunity to identify new relationships, connections and initiatives. Dundee's Science Learning Institute is an excellent example of Scotland's science centres moving beyond their traditional visitor focus to promote science learning in the city and more widely."

Meanwhile, Louise Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Dundee Science Centre said, "As part of our commitment to pushing the boundaries of Dundee Science Centre, we have achieved a first through the creation of the Science Learning Institute. We hope to play a key role in the wider Scottish education scene by giving teachers and others the tools they need to bring stimulating and challenging activities into their classroom, museum or lecture theatre, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. However, straight science aside, we are keen for the partnership to develop much more widely, branching beyond the many faces of science and into the local arts and cultural scene."

The Institute is a partner initiative with the University of Dundee's School of Education, Social Work and Community Education, and Dundee College. Last night's event was attended by their respective Principals, Professor Pete Downes and Christina Potter along with Professor David Sigsworth, Chair of Dundee Science Centre.

Guests also represented other areas of further and higher education, alongside those from research institutes, visitor attractions, schools, Dundee City Council and the Scottish Government.

The evening also showcased the wider public engagement and educational work carried out by Dundee Science Centre and its many partners, including their local 'Teachers in Residence', scientists taking part in the 'Scientists on Tour' project and local students./

The Science Learning Institute at Dundee Science Centre 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.dscsciencelearninginstitute.org.uk 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
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