A micro approach to science practicals

Dr Mike Wooster from Downham Market High School, UK, recently presented a workshop on 'Micro science - an innovative teaching method for practical work' to over 80 science teachers from both state and non-state schools as part of a three-day in-service training course 'Teaching Science across Europe'.

Micro science is a new concept that uses small-scale apparatus and limited material to enable all students to easily gain individual hands-on experience of practical work on science subjects. It offers several advantages:

• The practicals that can be carried out cover most of the syllabus;

• Micro science can be used at all levels of education - from primary to advanced level - even complicated practical work can be done by students individually;

• Students learn fine motor skills;

• Students have more ownership over their practical work;

• There is less noise in the classroom;

• Demonstrations can be carried out even by non-specialists - this is most relevant at primary level;

• It can cover topics from all the three specialised single science subjects - chemistry , physics and biology;

• There is no spillage of materials and much less time is needed for preparation and clearing-up;

• There is much less demand on technicians, who can concentrate on assisting the teacher instead;

• No extra technicians are required at primary level;

• It reduces setting-up and running-costs immensely while reaching each and every student at all levels.

The in-service course was organised by science co-ordinators for Church schools Chris Schembri and Doreen Mizzi at St Elias College, St Venera. To contact Dr Wooster e-mail mike.wooster@virgin.net