INNOVATIVE
Robinson told Geoscientist: “All teaching materials and resources are brought to the school, including microscopes, mineral, rock and fossil collections, small flumes, compasses, hand lenses and handheld GPS units.” An innovative aspect of GeoBus is the way it involves early-career researchers, who will be helping to develop the teaching resources. “The aim is to engage and inspire young would-be scientists by introducing them to hands-on practical exercises that cover a many exercises will be based on current research outcomes” Robinson says.
Picture: Ruth Robinson, Kathryn Roper (GeoBus coordinator), a Buckhaven pupil, and Iain Stewart. Photo courtesy of East Fife Mail
“A further benefit to schools is an emphasis on potential career pathways. The project will provide a bridge between industry, HEIs, Research Councils, and schools, and it is hoped that more young people will be encouraged to think about a career in geology or Earth sciences as a result.”
Any school interested in booking GeoBus should visit the website (
www.geobus.org.uk). The current funding for the project will support visits to schools throughout school term time until June 2014.