STAR Olivia Keenan runs workshop in school on the planets in our Solar System and beyond!
When we are growing up we look to our role models for inspiration and use them as a blueprint to guide us into a successful adulthood. Therefore, providing the correct role model for impressionable young childom/”>Universe in the Classroom we have been running a voluntary role model scheme for the last two years with BSc, MSc and PhD students from Cardiff University’s STEM schools. These so-called Stellar Role Models, or STARS, visit primary schools across Wales to help inspire and educate students using Astronomy.
During the first phase of the programme, we were proud to host 29 enthusiastic students, who ran a total of 25 workshops, reaching 871 students. This term we opening to scheme to students for a second round and are extremely pleased to welcome a further 10 students from the Schools of Physics and Astronomy, and Mathematics.
The STARS will primarily be helping to run workshops in primary schools using a network of robotic telescopes.
STARS demonstrating the collapse of a star during Space Scoop Storytelling.
They will use a range of resources and activities designed to support students in exploring the vast Universe using professional-quality equipment in an enquiry-based e-learning environment.
STARS will not only pass on new knowledge and skills to the country’s youth, they are also acting as role models, demonstrating to children that anyone can be a scientist, regardless of age, gender or background!
In the two weeks, the STARS have taken part in a two-hour training session during which they were given an opportunity to familiarise themselves with Universe in the Classroom resources, learned how to effectively communicate science to a young audience from an experienced primary school teacher, and hone their creative communication skills.
After completing training in communication and primary education, they’re now they’re primed and ready for action!
If you want to become a STAR or know someone who does, contact us at unawe@astro.cf.uk or visit our webpage for more information at http://tinyurl.com/ohjrkyw
