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KIST Holds Annual High School Science Summer Camp (2017.07.25)
- Date : 2017-09-26
- Views : 4865
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International Cooperation Team
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KIST Holds Annual High School Science Summer Camp
- Specialized lab programs in five fields
- R&D education and career mentoring
From July 24 to August 4, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) High School Science Camp was held at KIST’s headquarters in Seoul. This year marked the 5th anniversary of the program, which aims to nurture the scientific talents of high school students and educate them on how R&D is conducted.
The program is free of charge and encompasses five different fields: glia-neuron interaction; environment, health, and welfare; spintronics; materials architecturing; and advanced analysis. A total of 44 students (7-10 for each category) were ultimately selected to participate.
Unlike conventional field trips and lectures, students were provided with intensive hands-on learning activities, and researchers served as both mentors and teachers. On the final day of the camp, students in all five fields gave presentations and led a series of discussions.
Jeong Ah-yeong, a participant in the glia-neuron interaction aspect of the camp, said, "I was very interested in brain science but had trouble understanding the terms and concepts involved. In this camp, the discussions I had with other students made me feel like an actual scientist. It motivated me to study hard to broaden my knowledge and achieve my dream of becoming a scientist."
According to a 2016 survey of 108 students who participated in the program over the past three years, many students ended up pursuing related S&T majors in college. When asked whether the camp helped them decide their futures, 96.6% responded “yes.” When asked whether they would recommend the camp to others, each and every one said “yes,” demonstrating overwhelming satisfaction for the program.
Dr. Lee Byung Gwon, president of KIST, said, "I hope this camp serves as a great chance for students to discover and develop their interests and talents. We will continue to do everything we can to help nurture new scientific talents through diverse programs designed to promote scientific awareness.”