NANOYOU (Nano for Youth) is a project funded by the 7th Framework Program of the European Commission that aims to increase young people’s basic understanding on nanotechnologies (NT) and to engage in the dialogue about its ethical, legal and social aspects (ELSA).
Nanotechnology consists of the development and application of materials and processes at nanoscale. The applications of these nanomaterials and nanotechnologies are yet being discovered and developed offering enormous progress possibilities. But they also may have harmful effects that we must be aware of.
In this context NANOYOU aims to encourage young Europeans to participate in dialogues about the ethical, legal and societal aspects of nanotechnologies. This purpose will be carried out through a strong school program for young people aged 11-18 and a wide range of activities in Science Centres for those aged 18-25.
The web portal will also serve as a dissemination tool through a range of virtual activities, as well as a communication space with virtual forums where students will be able to engage in different dialogues and a Network through which different institutions and schools will be able to share experiences and resources.
Activities and materials include:
- Video and posters with information about nanoscience and nanotechnologies and their fields of application
- On-line animations, simulations and virtual experiments based on current research
- Nanotechnologies time machine game to enable students to travel through human needs and its past, present and possible future solutions
- “What are nanotechnologies?” workshop, where nanotechnologies will be introduced through games such as a nano-memory game and nano jigsaw puzzle.
- A role play workshop that will present dilemmas where students will choose different stakeholder roles.
- Virtual dialogues that will enhance students’ discussion on different nanotechnologies topics and will allow them to communicate with each other through a forum on the project website.
Further information:
http://www.nanoyou.eu
