Here’s something you don’t get to do every day!
Scientists and Mathematicians in Schools (SMiS) recently organised a ‘speed dating’ event for teachers attending the NSW Science Teachers Association’s Biology Subject Day, held at UNSW. With over 100 teachers in attendance, including CHeBA's Dr Karen Mather, it was a great opportunity for teachers to network with some of UNSW’s top researchers.
SMiS arranged for a number of scientists and mathematicians from various faculties at UNSW to meet the teachers during the morning tea break. Through a series of two-minute ‘dates’ with each of the scientists and mathematicians, the teachers were able to get a snapshot of scientific and mathematical research at UNSW. Dr Mather enjoyed the challenge of meeting the teachers and explaining her research into the genetics of healthy brain ageing in two minutes. Teachers had the opportunity to try the scratch and sniff test, which CHeBA use to test odour identification in their studies.
There was a tremendous buzz in the room as participants exchanged ideas and information, and the feedback from everyone was overwhelmingly positive. The scientists and mathematicians appreciated being able to showcase their work and have the opportunity to talk to teachers, who are at the coalface of engaging students in science. Teachers were able to find out about research activities at UNSW and at least one teacher and scientist have decided to establish a SMiS partnership as a result, with the scientist having been invited to the school to talk to students about his work.
Scientists and Mathematicians in Schools is a CSIRO program which creates long term, professional partnerships between teachers and scientists and mathematicians. The program is always looking for more scientists and mathematicians to participate – for more information visit http://www.scientistsinschools.edu.au/index.htm
