September 2009 — Volume 3, Issue 5

In2science develops valuable skills

A mentoring program designed to boost high school science enrolments has also been shown to improve university graduate attributes.

The In2science University to School Mentoring Program is run across three Melbourne universities and is led by ALTC Citation winner John McDonald of La Trobe University.

In2science places current university students in high school science and mathematics classrooms as peer mentors; assisting teachers and engaging with students.

“The program initially began as a way to broach the decreasing science enrolments at universities and help fix the problem at a high school level where fewer students were taking sciences in years 11 and 12,” Mr McDonald said.

“As the program progressed we discovered that the university students were reaping tremendous benefits as well so the program really does go both ways,” he said.

According to Mr McDonald, by volunteering three hours a week at high schools, the university students are given the unique opportunity to develop their communication skills, reinforce their own learning and gain
leadership experience.

“A lot of students want to be involved because they want to give something back to their own high school and promote their discipline and break the stereotype of scientists as old and grey wearing lab coats,” he said.

The opportunity to relate their subject to the real world also leaves students more
focused and committed to their studies after the program ends, Mr McDonald said.

“The mentors usually feel more motivated and connected to their course of study afterwards since In2science
often makes them more aware of the passion they have for their subject,” he said.

“A lot of the students comment that through applying their knowledge to a high school setting they have enhanced their own subject confidence by proving they can explain it clearly to others.”

The value mentors place on participation is reflected in the high numbers who volunteer for placements over multiple semesters – in 2009, 48 students sought a second or third placement.

Some students also get the opportunity to be involved in the nanotechnology road show for regional schools, where they take on enhanced roles where they demonstrate more independence and additional presentation and leadership skills.

Originally the brainchild of the Deans of Science at the University of Melbourne and La Trobe University and based upon similar programs in Australia and overseas, John McDonald is the man who puts the ideas into the practice of In2science.

With a background in high school teaching, Mr McDonald is genuinely enthusiastic about the program and said the job was extremely fulfilling.

“It’s great to watch the students mature and evolve over the course of their mentorship and to receive feedback from both high school and university students that they enjoyed their involvement and felt more passionate about science as a result - it's a great feeling."