SimplyNano in the Principality of Liechtenstein
The first “SimplyNano 2” project outside of Switzerland took place in the Principality of Liechtenstein. On September 17, 16 teachers took part in a further training course in Schaan. The host was Ivoclar.
STEM teaching materials with the WOW effect
We encounter STEM subjects and nanotechnology every day. They can be found in plastics, surface coatings and textiles. However, these “nanos” are not visible to the naked eye. This makes the practical and exciting “SimplyNano” experiments, which arouse interest in the tiny particles and their special properties, all the more valuable.
The focus of the course was on independent experimentation. The teachers from the Principality of Liechtenstein carried out the nano experiments themselves and slipped into the role of the pupils. The experiments generated enthusiasm and numerous “aha” moments. The experiments with direct relevance to everyday life were particularly appreciated, such as the diaper experiment with highly absorbent nanomaterial or the lotus effect, which illustrates how phenomena at the smallest level can also be seen in nature.
The participants also positively emphasized that the course was very practice-oriented and that the materials are ready for teaching and can be used immediately.
A guest at Ivoclar in Schaan
Ivoclar is strongly committed to the training and promotion of apprentices in the Principality of Liechtenstein and neighboring regions. The Liechtenstein-based company has more than 100 years of company history and has developed into a global market leader in the dental sector. Under the motto “Making People Smile.”, the company is characterized by its innovative strength and comprehensive product and system solutions for dentistry and dental technology.
Two apprentices, Artiola Mehmeti and Tiziano Di Benedetto, presented the eight different apprenticeships at Ivoclar and also gave an insight into the history and values of the company. Ivoclar trains around 30 apprentices at its Schaan site and employs a total of around 950 people. The fact that apprentices themselves present their company underlines the promotion of skilled workers and fits in with the objective of the “SimplyNano” project to attract young people to STEM subjects and specialist professions.
101 experiment kits for Liechtenstein schools
Thanks to the support of the MAIORES Foundation, the Thoolen Foundation and other regional institutions, interested schools in the Principality of Liechtenstein were provided with a total of 101 complete case sets, including all the necessary documents. Thanks to this broad support, the “SimplyNano” teaching materials are available to secondary schools free of charge and can be used directly in the classroom following a further training course.
Source: Innovation Society
Image: Innovation Society
19.09.2025, Innovation Society