Over 1,000 nano-experiment kits for secondary schools

From this spring, the “SimplyNano 2” experiment kits will be available free of charge for nature and technology lessons at secondary schools and secondary grammar schools in the cantons of Lucerne, Zug, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Uri and Glarus. The cases with 37 experiments on nanotechnology contain all the documents, chemicals and materials for the classroom and thus enable independent experimentation and research-based learning. The cases are already in use in 10 cantons. Over 1,000 experiment kits are available for schools in the six cantons of Central Switzerland. Every school that takes part in one of the 8 training courses will receive a free class set of 8 – 12 experiment kits and teaching and learning materials.

Nano experiments with a “WOW effect”

Nanotechnology is the science of the very small. Because of their special properties, nanomaterials are found in many technical materials but also in many everyday products such as cosmetics, textiles, paints or in medicine. With these harmless and amazing experiments, learners discover, among other things, how baby diapers with “superabsorbers” absorb extremely large amounts of liquid, why geckos with nano-structures on their feet climb up walls or how the “memory effect” works with metals in braces and medical stents. The experiments show the fascinating world of the smallest particles and present concrete applications in products and materials.

Further training courses at technology companies

The aim is to promote enthusiasm for science and technology with hands-on experiments and to increase young people’s interest in technical professions. This is accompanied by half-day training courses for teachers at regional technology companies. Teachers get to know the learning media and carry out the experiments independently in a practical section. They also gain an insight into the companies’ apprenticeships and come into contact with the apprenticeship managers. To kick off the project, a course will be held at Proto Chemical in Glarus on April 24, 2024. Online registration for this or one of the seven other courses is now possible via this link.

Broad support from more than 40 partners

The “SimplyNano 2” learning media (class sets of cases and learning materials) and courses are free of charge for schools in Central Switzerland that take part in a course. The project is financed by a broad sponsorship of over 40 project partners. The broad support of the project partners from various sectors underlines the importance of promoting science and technology in schools and encouraging young talent in these professions.

Source: Innovation Society

Image source: Innovation Society

26.03.2024 Ricarda Zech