The European initiative Euro4Science 2.0, coordinated by the University of Aveiro, used the Scientific Computing Unit's studio. The goal is to promote Forensic Biology in secondary schools.
Television series made the image famous. Professionals in lab coats and protective glasses meticulously analyze a piece of material. The same scene took place in the Scientific Computing Unit Studio in early 2019. The ultimate goal is production of 10 tutorial videos that will support the implementation of activities in secondary schools.
The initiative comes from the Department of Biology at the University of Aveiro – which coordinates this international project (funded by Erasmus+), in partnership with the Aveiro District School Group. According to Joaquim Pedro, a member of this department, Euro4Science includes the distribution of a toolkit (a suitcase with forensic biology instruments) to carry out experiments in a classroom context.
Through the video, the person in charge emphasizes, it is possible to help teachers and make the experience “more appealing, especially since these are concepts that many students are unfamiliar with." Similarly, Euro4Science includes a manual and specific training for teachers (both national and international) run by the University of Aveiro.
In the construction of these experiences, explains Joaquim Pedro, there was also a concern to “include easily accessible materials”, adapting activities to the school environment. One example involves an electrophoresis experiment that can be performed using paper clips and a plastic box.
Motivate for Science
Over the years, the image of the forensic scientist has been cemented, particularly among younger generations, thanks to television series. This project, explains Joaquim Pedro, aims to... “recreate a bit of the CSI environment in schools”"This is a way to motivate students, showing that, behind those characters, there is scientific knowledge that allows us to reach conclusions," he emphasizes.
At the FCCN Studio, he highlights, the University of Aveiro found “all the conditions”, highlighting the advantages of professional Chroma technology or lighting. On the other hand, details such as a teleprompter may be especially important, considering that the extras are biology students with no on-camera experience. "Having these facilities makes things much easier," emphasizes Joaquim Pedro, before concluding: "It will make a difference in the final result.”
Please note that the FCCN Studio is available to all members of the national scientific and academic community who belong to educational institutions participating in the Science, Technology and Society Network (RCTS). Appointments can be made at: https://www.fccn.pt/colaboracao/estudio/
