In March 2020, I’m a Scientist, Stay at home was launched to allow school students to stay connected with STEM during the school closures due to coronavirus. Students could log in and take part whether they were at school or at home, reconnecting with their teachers and each other.
The Psychology Zone ran over 12 weeks as part of the Stay at home activities, instead of the usual two. This Zone was funded by the British Psychological Society with additional funding from UKRI.
- 46 psychologists created profiles in the Zone, and 41 engaged with students in live chats and answering questions. 23 of these psychologists were new to the I’m a Scientist activities.
- Psychologists from a broad range of areas and career stages took part. For example, Alan Winfield is a Professor researching the ethical impact of robots on society, Lara Quartel is a PhD student studying how young people’s brains work in those with mental health problems, and Abbie Jordan does research helping young people who are affected by pain. On average, 5 psychologists attended each live chat session.
- 581 students from 31 schools all over the UK logged into the Zone. 26 of these schools had taken part in a previous I’m a Scientist activity
- 27% of active students were from Widening Participation schools, and 61% from Underserved Schools.
