Posted: April 24, 2009

NANOYOU project will bring nanotechnology lessons to 30,000 European students

(Nanowerk News) Israel's Organization for Rehabilitation and Training (ORT) educational system will reveal to 30,000 European students the mysteries of nanotechnology, after winning a 1.5 million euro tender for the NANOYOU project.
The nantechnology lessons will introduce 400 of Israel's famous technical schools to 20 European countries, and are being touted as one of the most massive "educational exports" in recent history.
NANOYOU will design and undertake a communication and outreach program in nanotechnology aimed at European youth. The project will reach 11-18 year olds through school programs to take place in at least 20 EU Member States and Associated States. Additional programs aimed at young adults aged 19-25 will be offered in science centres.
While some FP6 programs have made an excellent start in informing the public about nanotechnology, they have not focused on youth nor have their activities taken place in the schools.
NANOYOU will combine temporary exhibitions, innovative computer games, experiments and other online content, with workshops aimed at promoting dialogue that will raise participants' awareness of ethical, legal and societal aspects of nanotechnology. NANOYOU's content will be balanced and up-to-date, and teacher training materials will be prepared to equip science teachers and other personnel to present the NANOYOU programs.
NANOYOU has assembled a strong consortium with partners experienced in nanotechnology, educational methodology and science communication, as well as organizations highly suited and experienced at arranging outreach/communication activities in schools and science centres.
The Zentrum für Soziale Innovation (ZSI) in Austria will contribute firstly with an explorative research in 7 partner countries and secondly evaluate the outreach activities.
Source: ZSI; Israel National News