Learning science not just from books, but by experiencing it firsthand: that’s exactly what the “SimplyNano 2” educational project makes possible. After 57 Bernese high schools were equipped with approximately 700 experiment kits last school year, the successful project is now continuing. With “SimplyNano Bern 2.0,” an additional 625 experiment kits are now available for schools in Bern. This gives even more young people the opportunity to explore exciting scientific phenomena through their own experiments. The project kicked off with an introductory course for teachers at the Bern-based energy company BKW.
Hands-On Science
Whether it’s water-repellent rain jackets, life-saving smoke detectors, or absorbent baby diapers—many everyday products are based on amazing scientific phenomena. With 41 exciting experiments, “SimplyNano 2” brings these phenomena right into the classroom. The experiments can be easily integrated into science and technology classes and bring science and technology to life for young people in a fascinating way.
Enthusiastic Teachers Visit BKW
Twenty-two teachers from Bern were able to try out the experiments on their own during an introductory course. In the process, they put themselves in their students’ shoes and tested the practical application in everyday school life. Their enthusiasm was clearly evident. The course also provided an opportunity for direct dialogue between schools and the business community. Host BKW provided the teachers with insights into its diverse vocational training opportunities. The Bern-based energy company trains over 700 apprentices in 30 different trades throughout Switzerland. “The professional world at BKW is diverse and offers young people exciting prospects for the future. We want to familiarize teachers with this diversity so they can support their students in choosing a career,” emphasizes Rahel Dosch, HR Marketing and Recruiting Partner at BKW. Melanie Jeckelmann, Head of Career Entry at BKW, also underscores the importance of this collaboration: “Science and technology teachers play a crucial role in sparking young people’s enthusiasm for STEM subjects. At the same time, this project strengthens the exchange between schools and the business community. That’s why we’re happy to support it as a partner.”
More Schools Are Benefiting—Thanks to Broad Support
In the second phase of the project, additional high schools in Bern can be equipped with “SimplyNano 2” experiment kits free of charge. Schools where at least one teacher attends an introductory course will receive a free classroom set containing all the materials. The project is made possible through the support of various foundations, companies, and associations. The educational program is published by the SimplyScience Foundation. The teaching materials were developed by the St. Gallen Innovation Society, which is also responsible for conducting the introductory courses. A total of five courses are scheduled in the canton of Bern through March 2027, and they are already well booked. A few spots are still available for interested teachers. For more information and to register: https://simplynano.ch/projekt/simplynano-2-bern-2-0/
- Note to editors: Images are available online:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1mHMMmHZscxisLoXsn6PNRTltWSgAzKtL?usp=drive_link
Contact for media inquiries:
Dr. Christoph Meili
Managing Director, The Innovation Society
Tel. 076 326 77 97
christoph.meili@innovationsgesellschaft.ch
www.simplynano.ch