Scientists and Students

Posted on July 2, 2006  Comments (1)

Scientists ‘too busy’ for pupils BBC News:

The pressure to publish research means many scientists do not have time to go into schools to encourage pupils to take up sciences, a study suggests.

Obviously research is important. But, as the article points out, it is also important for primary school teachers and students to interact with practicing scientists. The benefits of those interactions are most likely going to pay dividends over the long term.

“Teachers can also gain a huge amount from meeting and talking to practising scientists as a way of updating their knowledge and refreshing their passion for modern science.

“It is heartening that 50% of scientists surveyed identified schools and school teachers as being among the most important audiences to engage with.”

As countries around the globe focus on improving science education I believe encouraging interaction with practising scientists is one (of many) practices that can help. A previous BBC article highlights the lack of actual interaction (or at least that is my belief, I suppose it is possible the students impression was based on real scientists they interacted with) humorously: Children’s view of Scientists in England.

Among those who said they would not like to be scientists, reasons included: “Because you would constantly be depressed and tired and not have time for family”, and “because they all wear big glasses and white coats and I am female”.

One Response to “Scientists and Students”

  1. Curious Cat Science and Engineering Blog » Nobel Laureates Speaking to High School in Japan
    September 3rd, 2006 @ 12:38 pm

    […] Our previous post, Scientists and Students, discussed having practicing scientists address students. Scientist say they are too busy and do not get credit for such efforts – hopefully these Nobel prize winners can help show how important such direct contact can be. […]

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