Science in Schools

CSR Europe's ToolboxDid you know?

  • Only 15% of Europeans are satisfied with the quality of science classes in school
  • Children in the rest of the world are significantly more interested in science subjects than those in most European countries
  • Boosting enrolment in scientific and technical fields of study is one of the objectives set by EU Ministers of Education in 2001 as part of their contribution to the Lisbon process; so it is crucial for European youth to acquire proficiency and knowledge in science subjects

Video:

Celia Moore from IBM presents the CSR Laboratory on Enhancing Science Education in Schools

 

Science in Schools

Enhancing Science Education in Schools

The Science in Schools Laboratory aims to increase the attractiveness of Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) to schoolchildren. By collaborating across companies and other stakeholders, the programme complements and builds on the work of individual organisations.

In 2008 collaborative networks were established in 10 countries with 30 organisations and MST education groups. The networks are in Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the UK. Each network is developing its own programme of activities appropriate to the local context, and best practices will be shared across Europe.

Science in Schools is intended to be a long-term strategic programme to align industry and government interests to increase the number of graduates entering careers in science and engineering. The priorities identified by the network members, and in recent research, include

  • providing teachers with opportunities to gain first hand experience of how Maths Science and Technology are applied in a wide range of jobs;
  • fostering curiosity and interest in science among primary students;
  • and focusing on developing girls' interests in MST subjects.

The network is currently developing a series of on-line briefings for teachers and short teacher placements in industry, and planning to deliver activities for schools under the umbrella of Engineers Week in the Spring that leverage existing company programmes. The activities will be further developed in 2009, including extending the network to more countries.

Get Equipped

A. Promotional Materials & Key Presentations

If you require an editable version of any of this information, please contact ron_hulman@uk.ibm.com.

B. Contact Us to Find out More

For more information or to participate in Science in Schools, please contact:

C. Existing Country Networks, Plans & Information

Participating organisations, plans, updates and news for countries:

D. Science In Schools Newsletters

E. "How-To" Guides

(1) Country Networks

(2) Developing A Catalogue of Industry-developed MST Education Resources

(3) Industry-developed Podcasts for Teacher Professional Development

(4) Promotion of Science In Schools through National Science Weeks or eWeek (or vice versa)

F. Specific Examples of Collaborative Action

G. Reference Information & Research Reports

See Also . . .

Laboratory Leaders and Facilitators

IBM CSR Europe