Engaging disengaged students with I’m a Scientist

Some students donā€™t like science lessons. Maybe they donā€™t see the point, maybe they donā€™t think theyā€™re good at science, maybe they used to love science but have been put off by the stress and pressure of exams. Whatever the reason these students donā€™t engage, here are 3 ways Iā€™m a Scientist can help.

1. Enthuse and engage students

In Iā€™m a Scientist, students lead the conversation and genuinely connect with the scientists taking part. Teachers often tell us how well their class engaged with the activity or how their classroom had a real ā€œbuzzā€, especially during the live chat session.

A number of teachers have also been surprised by specific students who arenā€™t usually ā€œintoā€ science.

2. Improve motivation to learn – long term

Taking part helps students see how science is relevant to them; studentsā€™ science capital is increased and they begin to see science as ā€˜something for meā€™. Having a higher science capital makes it more likely for your students to continue studying science at a higher level. The Science Capital Teaching Approach helps students share personal experiences, and find their value and links to science content.

Teachers often notice greater lesson engagement and improved learning after taking part in Iā€™m a Scientist.

3. Give your quiet students a voice

Perhaps the ā€œdisengagedā€ student isnā€™t actually disengaged, just shy or spoken over by others in the group. Unlike face-to-face interactions, in Iā€™m a Scientist students voices all have the same ā€œvolumeā€, providing them with a level playing field. The text-based live chats are fast paced but everyone gets their say and quieter students get the chance to shine.


Apply for your students to take part

Trying to engage your students to make the most of science? Help them find their enthusiasm and motivation through Iā€™m a Scientist activities; register your interest at imascientist.org.uk/teachers or contact admin@imascientist.org.uk for more information.

Already registered? Donā€™t forget to apply for the next event ā€“ we email registered teachers when applications open (about 2 months before the event starts).

Posted on May 25, 2018 by in News, School, Science Engagement, Teachers. Comments Off on Engaging disengaged students with I’m a Scientist