We are looking for researchers to have live, text-based chats about galaxies with young people between February and June 2023. The young people (age 9-12 years) will have used Galaxy Zoo on the Zooniverse platform and the resources available at Zooniverse in Schools to make observations about galaxies which they will be able to share with you and discuss.
Why take part? These young researchers will have done their own research and talking to you about their work and their galaxy-based discoveries will be the icing on the cake. You can tell them first-hand about what it is like to be a researcher and talk about your own work. This is an excellent opportunity for you to engage with young people at an age when they are making decisions about science and their future. We hope it will be fun and rewarding for you too!
What do we need from you? The discussions will take place on the I’m a Scientist platform (more information below). Researchers will be able to select times most suitable for their schedule within the school day. Each chat is just 30 minutes and you can participate from wherever you are. No preparation is required, and we are here to answer any questions that you may have. We hope that you will participate in around two chats per week to allow us to open this opportunity to as many schools as possible.
Sign up here to have online chats with young people about their galaxy discoveries
If you have any questions, please contact zooniverseinschools@physics.ox.ac.uk.
This project is part of the nationwide Zooniverse in Schools programme funded by STFC, which has reached over 1000 pupils so far. It provides opportunities for young people to engage in real research through the Zooniverse platform. Project partners include SEPnet, The Ogden Trust and I’m a Scientist.
We look forward to working with you!
The Zooniverse in Schools team
About I’m a Scientist (IAS): IAS is an online STEM engagement project running since 2008. The project engages school students with people working in STEM through online, text-based, live chats to help students see science as something for them. The young people will not vote for their favourite scientist (as they do in the traditional format of I’m a Scientist) but instead talk about galaxy research as well as more generally about space science and careers in science. More information about the IAS platform can be found on their website.