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News Release from: Sheffield Hallam University
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 11 November 2005
Avoiding national science skills
shortages
A scheme at Sheffield Hallam University is aiming to avert a national skills shortage by getting pupils and students more involved in their science, technology and mathematics lessons.
A scheme at Sheffield Hallam University is aiming to avert a national skills shortage by getting pupils and students more involved in their science, technology and mathematics lessons The 'Engineering a Better World' (EBW) project is helping pupils from schools across Yorkshire and Humberside into careers in science and engineering by encouraging them to study science and mathematics
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 22 May 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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The University's Centre for Science Education is managing the three-year pilot project in the Yorkshire and Humberside region, with the four regional SETPOINTs act as co-ordinating hubs at the local level.
The project is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Yorkshire Forward.
According to Dr Stuart Bevins of SETPOINT South Yorkshire in the Centre for Science Education: "The UK has a long tradition of producing high quality scientists, engineers and mathematicians who have contributed greatly to the economic stability of the nation.
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However, over recent years the recruitment of people with the necessary skills and abilities in these areas has reduced significantly." David Mowthorpe, project manager of 'Engineering a Better World' said: "Even though the UK has a large and increasing number of students in higher education there is a decrease in those studying specifically for qualifications in mathematics, physical sciences and engineering disciplines.
This has resulted in a national skills shortage.
The EBW project engages young people by giving them a positive experience of engineering in school and beyond.
A major aim is to increase young people's understanding and perception of engineering and engineering careers, and the important role that mathematics and the physical sciences have to play." The scheme involves both curricular and extra-curricular activities in design and technology, science and mathematics, with school departments and careers specialists working collaboratively.
EBW also gives pupils experience and understanding of engineering through case studies.
One such study is 'The Solar Detectives', a hands-on solar-power project which links the national curriculum with out-of-school science and engineering clubs.
The EWB project also organises events and presentations to give children hands-on experience of engineering and science - such as the recent Hot Metal, Cool Futures careers event at the Sheffield Hallam FM Arena.
Dr Bevins said: "The immediate and critical challenge for the UK is to increase the numbers of quality graduates studying for physical sciences and engineering qualifications.
The key to winning the challenge relies heavily upon inspiring and enthusing young people in science and engineering throughout their secondary school education.".
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