January was an exciting month for Science students and teachers as they had the rare opportunity to interact with eminent scientists such as Nobel Laureates, Fields medallists and Millennium Technology Prize winners!
During 21-25 January this year, our students and teachers were able to interact with these scientists through exciting events such as the International Science Youth Forum (ISYF) at Hwa Chong Institution and the "In Conversation about STEM" series at Victoria Junior College, held in conjunction with the Global Young Scientists Summit.
Sir Tim Hunt (Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or Medicine (2001)) and Dr Tuomo Suntola (Millennium Technology Prize winner (2018)), spoke on the theme "Science: A Common Language" and sub-theme "Science and Enterprise: A Symbiotic Union" in ISYF. The rich panel discussion had students asking thought-provoking questions, and yet the speakers were candid in sharing many of their personal experiences with the participants.
The three main ideas that were brought home from the discussion were the nature and purpose of science, the importance of science communication and the roles and responsibilities of scientists.
On nature and purpose of science: Most scientists do science to satisfy their curiosity, so as to have a better understanding of the world. They are not necessarily driven by the industries or financial motivations. However, through satisfying their curiosity, their discoveries can lead to applications that can be used in industries or to solve current and future global problems.
On importance of science communication: Scientists must be precise in communicating their ideas/research in scientific literature such that it can stand up to the scrutiny of other scientists and can be replicated and reproducible. At the same time, science communication to the masses is just as important-- especially in an era where massive information (and misinformation) is easily available to everyone at the swipe of a finger. So, communication skills are as important for a scientist to have as the skill of doing science experiments.
On roles and responsibilities of scientists: As science is a human endeavour, science can be enabling or disabling, as it can be influenced by other factors such as politics or the industries. It is the role of the scientists to ensure that the truth always prevails. Even in contradictory results of scientific research, scientists must hold a fundamental belief of intellectual honesty to present the data as it is so that an honest discussion can take place. It is also the responsibility of the scientists that the truth is clearly communicated to the masses.
It was a meaningful and enriching experience. As a science educator, let us attempt to further the "Nobel" cause of ensuring that truth always prevails.
You can use news articles and historical information to discuss these ideas with your students!
Comments