Curiosity in Action is a two-year programme to explore the impact of STEM in youth work funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). This will involve pairing youth groups across Scotland with scientist-in-residence involved in STFC research in a collaborative action research process. Together they will trial activities, explore approaches to discover what works well and understand the impact this work has on young people.
This expression of interest form is for STFC funded researchers interested in potentially working with youth groups (including PhD students working on STFC supported projects)
Being involved includes:
- You'll be paired with a specific youth worker and youth group as a "scientist-in-residence" to develop and co-deliver STEM-themed activities together from October 2023 to June 2024. This includes 4 group planning & reflections action research meetings and at least 6 interactions with the same youth groups.
You'll have access to bespoke training to enable you to take a youth-centred approach to engagement with research. You'll also have support with safeguarding and working in a youthwork setting.
You will also be fully supported to be part of the action research process and be a named contributor to the collective evidence that is developed which is currently planned to include a joint publication.
- You'll work closely with the other scientists and youth groups involved in the project to share learning including an in-person kick-off in October 2023 and online meetings as well as a wider network.
- You'll be provided all your expenses covered to be able to deliver activities and join in-person meeting
The matching process
At the moment you are expressing your interest to potentially be matched with a few short questions (you do not need to write up to the word count.
We are currently advertising for youth groups to be involved and once these are confirmed in August, we will be reaching out to those who have signed up using this form to help match the grounds with a relevant scientist. We will be matching based on the groups interest and geography (though some interactions may be facilitated online).
We want youth groups and researchers to be able to develop relationships and, in the process, gain a better understanding of each other’s expertise, experiences and perspectives.
We are also launching the Curiosity In Communities Network online space to enable anyone interested in how STEM can support youth and community work to connect and share resources and ideas. You'll have access to regular network meetings to connect, free training opportunities and resources and updates about the learning. You can sign up here.
