Transition Year students participate in Physics programme of events as part of Science Week

Posted on: 12 November 2007

As part of Science Week over 40 transition year students from schools all over Ireland took part in the Transition Year Physics Experience (TYPE) at the School of Physics, Trinity College Dublin.

TYPE participants attended lectures, laboratory demonstrations and workshops on topics ranging from the physics of sport to an Astrophysics Day during which they travelled to the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. One of the student challenges involved measuring the speed of light using marshmallows and a microwave oven

Working together in groups, with the assistance of a physics undergraduate students, the students also researched, designed and presented a physics related research project, which they then bring back to their respective secondary schools.

The Head of Physics at TCD, Professor James Lunney commented: "It is clear that to develop and sustain a high-tech economy in Ireland  universities must actively engage with schools and the public to encourage  students to consider taking a degree in physics as preparation for a career in science."

The School of Physics  will also  hold an Open Day on November 17th
next with the School of Mathematics where senior cycle secondary students will get the opportunity to experience a range of lectures on physics and mathematics  and meet with TCD physics staff and postgraduates over lunch.

For more information on upcoming outreach activities in the School of Physics contact Dr. Colm Stephens, School Administrator, at stephec@tcd.ie