Nano-experiments against the shortage of skilled workers (video)
A suitcase full of experiments on nanotechnology. A MINT class at Leonhard was allowed to experiment with it. This is how they want to counteract the shortage of skilled workers.
A whole 37 experiments on nanotechnology packed into a suitcase. This project is called "SimplyNano 2" and is now coming to Northwestern Switzerland. The suitcase is intended for teaching at secondary schools and is designed to promote STEM subjects. A STEM class at the Leonhard secondary school in Basel was allowed to experiment with it on Monday.
The experiments are versatile. Among other things, the pupils learn why a gecko can climb up smooth walls so easily or why baby nappies absorb so much liquid. It all has to do with nanoscience - the science of tiny particles. Although we often come across this technology in everyday life, be it in sun cream, paper clips or scratch-proof mobile phone covers, only a few people have an idea of what "nanotechnology" is.
Goal: Inspire young people
The experimental kit was created to get young people excited about the technology. The idea is to introduce young people to technical professions while they are still at school. After all, there is an acute shortage of skilled workers in this sector. Syngenta has also noticed this. The agrochemical company is one of many supporters of the Nano-Koffer and wants to get young people excited about science and technology.
The experimental kit is a step in the right direction, says Elisabeth Vock, Head of HR at Syngenta Switzerland. "We are investing more and more time to really fill all apprenticeship places. It's not just us, it's also happening to other companies in Basel. It's a big chemical and pharmaceutical location, so of course we'd be interested if more got excited about our industry," says Vock.
All secondary schools to receive suitcases
In the cantons of Basel-Stadt, Baselland and Solothurn, 900 of these suitcases are now being distributed. By 2025, according to the goal of project leader Christoph Meili, all secondary schools in Switzerland should be equipped with these experiment sets. "The pupils simply have fun because they can do something themselves," says Meili. The teachers also like to use the teaching materials. They are trained by companies such as Syngenta before they use the kit in class.
Positive experiences at Sek Leonhard
Patrick Aspäck is a teacher at the Leonhard secondary school. He attended the course and it was worth it, he thinks, because: "Experiments always go down well. It is best to do it loudly, the louder the better". With the experiments, he says, the students also realise what nanotechnology means. "The young people always hear about nanotechnology and nanoparticles. The experiments make it tangible what that actually means and what effect it has."
Original publication: TeleBasel - Leonie Fricker
Image source: TeleBasel - Leonie Fricker