The 23rd Hands-On Science (HOS) will be held at the University of Otago, Dunedin, from 15 to 20 January 2012. Download the 2012 Enrolment Book for full details.
The goal of Hands-On Science is to demonstrate, in a friendly and interactive environment, some of the activities that scientists are involved in and to encourage talented young New Zealanders to consider science as a career. We do this by bringing over 200 secondary students to New Zealand’s oldest and most attractive university, an institution having an international reputation for excellence in scientific research and teaching.
Hands-On Science gives students hands-on experience in science with active research applications. This is the kind of opportunity normally only available to science graduate students. To qualify for the programme, students must be entering Year 12 or 13 in the year 2012. Science teachers or principals are required to complete a section on the enrolment form confirming that the student has a strong interest and the potential to excel in Science. Applicants are required to write a page to support their application, which includes any information they feel is relevant and important.
Each morning of Hands-On Science the students participate in a Research Project based in one University department. Allocation to these projects is based on a first-in, first-served principle. However, for each project we also try to achieve a good balance of skills and backgrounds, while accommodating the specific requirements of individual projects and supervisors. Every attempt is made to satisfy student preferences.
The Science Snack programme allows students to have a small taste of a variety of other science activities, both on and off campus, during the afternoon. These science snacks provide an excellent opportunity for students to see scientists in action in real-life situations. We hope that these snacks will introduce participants to the exciting diversity of scientific research and its countless practical applications.
Opportunities for students to talk with University of Otago Advisors or the Liaison Officer about course options and prerequisites can be arranged during the week. A tour of student accommodation will also be available for students who are about to enter Year 13. HOS registrants are asked to indicate on the enrolment form if they would like to participate in any of these meetings or tours.
Registration happens as you arrive; for students arriving by car we recommend 2.00 pm on Sunday 15 January. This is followed at 4.00 pm by an orientation programme, a mihi whakatau and introductory session in the evening and then “Campus Capers”. The programme will close on Friday 20 January with a plenary session followed by lunch, finishing at approximately 1.00 pm.
The cost for the 23rd Hands-On Science is $620, which covers accommodation, meals, tuition, course materials. Payment of this fee is required within two weeks of your application being accepted, in order to secure your place.
Hands-On Science is fully residential
Full board for all participants is provided at Arana College, a comfortable Residential College adjacent to the University, from Sunday afternoon 15 January until Friday afternoon 20 January. This covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, and includes single bedroom accommodation with shared bathroom facilities. Bed linen and towels are provided. For further information about Arana, please visit their website.
If necessary, accommodation can be extended to include the Saturday night beforehand (14 January) or the Friday night (20 January) at an additional cost of $80 per night. Please contact us for further details.
The formal programme will be balanced by a variety of social and recreational activities in the afternoons and evenings. Experienced adult supervision will be provided for students at all times during the course of the Hands-On Science programme.