Very Young Scientists at DCU
3 June 2005

Paul McRory from `Think Differently'

On 6 May, 68 primary school students visited DCU to show staff and students scientific projects they had developed as part of the Discover Primary Science Display Day. Staff and students from the Faculty of Science and Health questioned the young scientists about their projects, which included demonstrations on Chromotography, i.e. the separation of substances. The students extracted colours from M&M sweets and determined which contained the most artificial colours. Another group looked at the different speed of sound at it travelled through solids and liquids. Professor Malcolm Smyth, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health said, "I was very impressed by the great enthusiasm shown by the students in displaying their windmills and other gadgets - the vibrancy in the air was electric."

The students received certificates and then attended a lecture and demonstration by Paul McRory from `Think Differently', a company which brings interactive shows to schools and educational events. Paul entertained the pupils by holding glasses of water upside down over the teachers' heads, much to the students delight.

Preparations for the day began in April when teachers from primary schools around Dublin came to DCU for a training day on primary science. Dr Eilish McLoughlin from the School of Physical Sciences facilitated the training and gave participants plenty food for thought. The teachers returned to their schools full of new ideas on how to facilitate the learning of science in their class.

If you are a teacher and would be interested in learning more, you can contact Dr Eilish McLoughlin at:
Tel: 01 700 5862
Email: eilish.mcloughlin@dcu.ie