TIME FOR NANO

TIME for Nano - Tools to Increase Mass Engagement for Nanotechnology

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The TIME for Nano Project aims at engaging the general public, with a special attention to young people, on benefits and risks related to nanoscale research, engineering and technology, through specific informal education products, namely the nano-kit and the organisation of a web contest each year that will be the basis for the realisation of events and debates for the public and collecting opinions and feedbacks from the participants. The products will use an inquiry-based learning approach, specifically developed in science centres/museums, where people understand by doing. The nano-kit could contain e.g. small exhibits, nano-objects and materials, scripts for experiments and role/team game cards. It is a tool for stimulating the participation of youngsters in the nano-olympics and for engaging in debate scientists, stakeholders and the public in general. The web platform will be a resource centre and an attractor for the whole community of N&N communicators, through its contents (continuous addition of new information etc), its innovative tools ( web contest) and the artistic approach, the online feedback collection. A great added value of the project is that of “growing” a community of people engaged in N&N communication, through the realisation of training courses in each of the participating Science Centres (at national level) and by Ecsite (at European level) intended to reach a number of at least 450 multipliers (experts working in outreach and education efforts), carefully chosen among three main groups: explainers in science centres and PhD students in science communication; teachers from primary and high schools. The public participation to the web-contest is ensured by the organisation of many events in science centres of 9 countries each year: launch event, nano days, final event with award prizes, intended as occasions for informing/educating, on one hand, and for engaging youngsters, collecting perceptions and opinions, on the other.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

The nanosciences are on the cusp of radically changing society. Fulfilling their promise requires the active interest, engagement and support of the general public, especially young people.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Nanosciences, and their resulting nanotechnologies, are on the verge of revolutionising the way we live and work. Despite this, public awareness of this complex field remains relatively low. Maximising the potential of nanosciences requires the emergence of new generations of researchers. Ensuring this involves inspiring more young people to enter the field.

To address these challenges, the TIME FOR NANO project developed and employed creative ways of raising awareness and interest in nanosciences among young Europeans. Funded by the EU, the project created two innovative communication tools: the Nanokit and an online video contest.

To demonstrate the value of nanotechnologies, the Nanokit contains 10 hands-on activities involving real nanomaterials, including 'magic sand' and 'hydrophobic textiles'.

The annual video contest encourages ordinary Europeans to become budding amateur filmmakers and produce YouTube videos exploring nano-related themes. During the lifetime of the project, more than 200 entries were uploaded.

Project members also employed three modes of dissemination to reach their target audiences effectively. These were Nanoday events for young Europeans, multiplier training sessions for educators and a web platform for all stakeholders.

TIME FOR NANO provided an adaptable model for communicating the nanosciences to young people. The project has also recommended targeting areas that include ethical issues that the field raises and the practical uses of nano innovations.