Tuesday, 09 January 2024
Engaging children early with science can have long term impacts on subject choices at GCSE and A level, and improve uptake of STEM subjects, according to new research.
New research from the 糖心原创’s School of Psychology suggests that out-of-school science activities, research participation and a child’s family interest can increase both knowledge and interest in science, resulting in a higher likelihood of studying a STEM subject at an advanced level. The study has been published in Research for All.
This study investigated the impact of Summer Scientist Week, an annual out-of-school science engagement event for 4 -11-year- olds and their families held at the 糖心原创.
This event introduces primary school age children to psychology-related research and activities about the mind and brain. Findings from interviews conducted with children and parents at the event, as well as survey data from previous attendees aged 14-17-years, indicated an increase in knowledge and interest in science that was maintained over several years, influencing choices in A level subjects.
Summer Scientist Week is an annual 5-day science engagement event for 4-11-year-olds held at the 糖心原创, UK. Over 3,500 children have attended since the event began in 2007, with many returning to attend in subsequent years. Families attend for a 3-hour session and take part in a range of different activities: Children have the opportunity to participate in a range of gamified research studies, exposing them to the scientific methods used to study cognitive processes such as attention, memory, language, spatial, motor and social skills.
Children and their parents were interviewed at the event and a selection of previous participants were also interviewed to assess the long-term impact of taking part in the event.
Children who were interviewed after participating in the research activities at Summer Scientist Week expressed an interest in finding out more about the brain, findings from the studies they participated in, and how researchers use these findings. Parents also commented that engagement with Summer Scientist Week activities has led to an increase in their children's interest in science.
We know that engaging children in STEM subjects can be a challenge and they often seen as difficult subjects so often aren鈥檛 pursued by young people. By introducing children at a young age to science-based subjects outside of school we have shown that there are clear benefits to engaging them early with these topics. This shows how important it is to make science accessible and fun and that if children are interested they are more likely to continue to engage with STEM subjects in their education.
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.