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Cutting-edge lessons

16 January 2009

Henkjan Gersen in the physics lab Making lessons interesting is a constant challenge for teachers. Physics Lecturer Henkjan Gersen fed outcomes of his research on nanotechnology into a professional development programme for teachers, thereby taking cutting-edge research right into the classroom.  

The Science Learning Centre (SLC) based in science centre At-Bristol provides Continued

Nanoscience was selected as a topic because of its high media profile. It was great to work with Henkjan because we could then use real research examples that move away from people’s expectation that nano is all about grey goo.

Edwina Duffy, Science Learning Centre
Professional Development courses for teachers.  Edwina Duffy from the SLC explained: “We organised a course for Key Stage 4 teachers that had an emphasis on the National Curriculum requirement ‘How scientists think’. Nanoscience was selected as a topic because of its high media profile. It was great to work with Henkjan because we could then use real research examples that move away from people’s expectation that nano is all about grey goo.”

Henkjan reflected on the timescale of research: “It’s really important that young people experience the potential applications of research today and also appreciate research timescales. Working with the SLC was a really positive experience – I’d recommend it to anyone.”

 

 

Please contact The Public Engagement Officer for further information.

Further information:

Dr Henkjan Gersen can be contacted by email at h.gersen@bristol.ac.uk