The Surrounded by Science project proudly presented its Science Chaser App at the prestigious ECSITE 2024 Conference, held from June 5 to June 8 in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The conference, celebrated for its dedication to science communication, innovation, and collaboration, attracts professionals from around the world, making it a cornerstone event for those passionate about science engagement.
Despite being scheduled in the final time slot of the conference, from 16:30 to 17:45 on the last day, the Science Chaser workshop drew an impressive turnout of around 40 enthusiastic participants. This attendance, especially given the timing, highlighted the strong interest and commitment of the attendees to explore cutting-edge advancements in informal STEM education.
During the workshop, participants were introduced to a variety of enrichment and extension activities for zoo visits, developed by the University of Twente team. These activities are designed to enhance educational experiences and deepen visitors’ engagement with scientific concepts during their time at the zoo.
Additionally, two other teams showcased their digital apps and resources: Ludenso and Naturalis, both contributing to the rich tapestry of tools available for informal science education.
The key takeaway from the workshop was clear: the Surrounded by Science project is at the forefront of pioneering work in the field, and iSTEM exhibition and activity designers are deeply interested in these innovative approaches. The attendance and engagement during the workshop reflected the relevance and impact of the project’s initiatives.
The ECSITE Conference remains a vital platform for professionals to share ideas, explore emerging trends, and build partnerships within the science engagement community. The success of the Surrounded by Science project’s presentation at this year’s event reaffirms its mission in advancing informal science learning and its commitment to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of science through innovative educational tools and activities.