Engage NewsTeachers, 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.

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.”

Related information:

Read the blog Collaborative approach key to professional development by Hannah Crookes, Director of Science Learning and Public Engagement, Dundee Science Centre.