Aberdeen Science Centre is bringing STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) to life for school pupils in the North-east, through its Learning Programme which supports teachers.
The STEM Learning Programme provides teachers with the opportunity to choose from a selection of workshops and activities that can support them to enhance STEM education for their pupils, from early years through to young adults.
Options include ‘Explore your Universe’ which looks at how current UK science is shaping what we know about space and how we discover more about the universe, ‘Amazing Air: The Power of Wind Turbines’ which allows students to build and test their own wind turbines and the Mathe-Magic workshop which explores the relevance of numeracy in the world around us.
A 'chronic shortage' of specialist educators has been reported in the city, with more than a quarter of Aberdeen’s technical teacher posts and 10% of its maths positions unfilled, forcing some schools in the area to limit the STEM subjects on offer to students.
While efforts are underway to recruit new teachers to the region, Aberdeen Science Centre has a range of resources and materials available to support schools.
Dr Mahalakshmi Abhishek, ASC’s STEM Learning Schools Lead, said the programme is intended to empower pupils to have a better understanding of STEM subjects and their impact on our everyday lives.
“As STEM educators we know the demands facing teachers - even without the added stress of staff shortages - which is why we do all we can to support staff and pupils.
“We tailor our workshops and shows around the benchmarks, experiences and outcomes that teachers need to meet as part of the Curriculum for Excellence, so staff can be assured our material is a great resource for expanding their pupil’s STEM skills and knowledge.”
As well as delivering activities in and outwith the centre, ASC also has a range of loan equipment for schools to borrow at no cost to support lessons.
Dr Abhishek added: “At the centre, we’re lucky to have the exhibits and resources that help bring STEM to life, but that can sometimes be challenging for teachers to recreate in the classroom. We offer loan materials such as infrared cameras and cloud chambers to make lessons more relevant.”
Aberdeen Science Centre is currently undergoing a £6m redevelopment project, with the state-of-the-art facility due to open next year.
The centre has currently relocated to temporary accommodation at 107 George Street to allow visitors to continue to enjoy interactive exhibits and topical science events while the refurbishment work is carried out at the old granite Tramsheds on Constitution Street.
Dr Abhishek said: “As we look forward to the opening of our new centre in summer next year, we’re keen to support even more pupils and teachers across the North-east to ensure young people in the region benefit from an enriching STEM education both in and out of school.”
For more information on Aberdeen Science Centre, visit www.aberdeensciencecentre.org