Extend your I’m a… experience by taking part in the Academy, returning this November. If you’re taking part in any I’m a… activity, you’re invited!
The Academy is a short CPD course that runs alongside the student engagement activity. It’s a great chance to reflect on your outreach experience while learning more about public engagement. Don’t just take our word for it – read on to hear from Academy alumni!
PhD student Katie found that the Academy ‘really added value’ to her participation. She used the Resource Library to reflect on her engagement as it happened.
“Taking part in both [I’m a Scientist and the Academy] allowed me to engage in active, reflective learning… Learning about science capital has really changed my mindset.”
– Academy alumnus, Katie
I’m a… activities are often described as a ‘crash course’ in science communication, but the Academy isn’t just for those early in their careers. There’s always more to learn! Experienced science communicator Rachel used the Academy to “shift what [she] thought engagement was”!
Participants enjoyed the chance to discuss their experiences with peers in weekly Chats with course facilitator, Dr Hannah Little:
It was good to share experiences with others in the group and also be pushed to consider the experience and grow from it.
– Academy alumnus, 2023
It was great to chat to other scientists about how they approach public engagement and their thoughts on it, it created some good discussions with lots to learn.
– Courtney, 2023
Great to chat alongside other enthusiastic science communicators, something I’ve never really had before.
– Camilla, 2023
We asked Academy alumni what they got out of taking part.
Here’s what they told us:
“I was introduced to different concepts, and it started to cement some ideas about what I need to do with in-person PE, and how the university could offer PE with more impact.” – Rachel, 2024
“Being able to strip away the technical jargon and legal type of language I use in my job to explain things more simply and concisely.” – Andrew, 2023
“[The Academy] helped me to think of further ways to better communicate science and plans to get involved in face-face public engagement sessions.” – Mimi, 2023
“The Academy allowed me to reflect upon my contribution and place it in a wider context.” – Samuel, 2023
“I hadn’t really thought much about the methods of delivery for STEM events and so I learnt a lot. It also made me reflect on my own science capital as a child and how that might compare with young people today.” – Alice, 2023
“It was interesting to read the articles and also to see the comments made by other scientists. It made me reflect on my own practice which is essential for further growth.” – Maryam, 2023
How to join the course
Access to the Academy course is for STEM professionals taking part in I’m a… activities. Tell us you would like to join by emailing support@imascientist.ie.
Any questions? Contact support@imascientist.ie or call +44 1225 667922.