Commission launches new website for science education
The European Commission has launched a new European gateway for science education - the Xplora portal - to make science more interesting to young people and encourage them to take up scientific careers. Funded under the Science and Society action of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), Xplora provides resources for primary and secondary education, and is aimed at teachers, pupils, scientists, communication professionals and others involved in science education. 'Research and science start with curiosity,' stated EU Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez Potocnik. 'School should be about encouraging this curiosity in children. I think this is crucial to encouraging more young people to choose a research career.' Such initiatives will be an important part of improving Europe's economic position in coming years, as more researchers are needed to drive innovation, he added. The key features of Xplora are a 'Megalab', which gives insights into innovative practical science approaches and projects; a fully searchable standards-based database of digital learning resources for science education; a series of virtual events with online expert discussions for schools; guidance on freely available Open Source tools for science education; tools for creating online communities; and science education news, information, teaching tips and ideas for science activities. Xplora is the result of the Pencil project, which brought together 13 scientific institutions and science education experts in formal and informal teaching methods to develop innovative approaches and materials in order to raise pupils' interest, knowledge and motivation. The portal is also supported by an EU-wide team of specialist science teachers, who ensure that the content is of good quality, and relevant. The team also proposes activities, resources and content.