“Taking part in both [I’m a Scientist and the Academy] allowed me to engage in active, reflective learning… Learning about science capital has really changed my mindset.”
– PhD student and I’m a Scientist Academy alumnus, Katie
Katie is typical of those who extend their I’m a Scientist experience by participating in the I’m a Scientist Academy, the professionals-only short course that runs alongside the student engagement activity.
Reflective practice is key to professional and personal development. It’s a process recommended by many organisations as part of the annual accreditation for Chartered Scientist and Technician status.
However, self-reflection isn’t an innate skill for everyone. The I’m a Scientist Academy supports early-career scientists to reflect on and evidence their participation in student engagement in real time.
“Scientists have repeatedly told us that taking part in I’m a Scientist has really improved their communication skills and given them the confidence and motivation to do more. We wanted to find a way to help formalise that learning and link it to a theoretical framework. The result is the I’m a Scientist Academy.”
– Shane McCracken, Project Director
Participants gain access to a curated set of resources. Each considers a different aspect of public engagement, including purpose, audience, media, and science capital. The Academy course is an opportunity for self-directed, reflective practice, encouraging scientists to think about how voluntary outreach activities benefit themselves and others.
With each topic comes a question, designed to help the participant relate their I’m a Scientist experience to the literature. A weekly Chat facilitated by Dr Hannah Little of Liverpool University draws out these themes into a peer discussion.
“The I’m a Scientist project gives scientists the chance to improve their engagement skills over a short period of time. Through the Academy, I’m helping them understand how they are improving those vital skills.”
– Dr Hannah Little, Academy Course Facilitator
By reflecting on an activity, even experienced science communicators can identify areas for improvement, uncover new perspectives, and find motivation for future activities.
One recent participant, Rachel, used her time in the I’m a Scientist Academy to “shift what [she] thought engagement was” and shape the relevant section of her Fellowship application.
Access to the Academy course is for STEM professionals taking part in I’m a.. activities. If you would like to join, send an email to support@imascientist.org.uk.
