This course explores the ASPIRES project’s insights into STEM education, focusing on science capital and its role in shaping students’ science aspirations. Primary school teachers will learn practical strategies to foster student engagement, address inequalities, and build a strong foundation for lifelong interest in STEM subjects.

This brilliant little video* introduction from Kings College London gives a perfect introduction to this approach to learning.

What is Science Capital? And why does it matter? This animation explains the compelling concept originally developed by King’s Professor Louise Archer and her team. King’s College London, the Science Museum and BP are working together on the Enterprising Science project to build young people’s science capital and increase their engagement with science.

ASPIRESProject. (2016, April 28). ASPIRES 2: How do young people’s science and career aspirations develop over time? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0t70bwPD6Y

Session 1 aims to address:

• Understand the concept of STEM capital and its components.
• Explore the findings of the ASPIRES research on STEM capital.

Session 2 aims to address:

• Identify strategies to build and support STEM capital in primary education.
• Discuss practical applications and activities to foster STEM interest among primary school students.

Final Assessment