Workshop
The Joule Thief and the History of the Transistor
Primary
This free workshop delves into the fascinating world of transistors! Students in North Wales will be introduced to the history of the transistor and explore how this building block of modern electronics has transformed our daily lives.
They'll also get to build their own transistor circuit - the Joule Thief - that extracts the last bit of energy from “dead” batteries to help power an LED light.
The circuit is similar to those used by electronic engineers. Students will have the opportunity to find out more about the various careers available in electronic engineering and the different people who work in the field.
To help challenge stereotypes about who can be an engineer, Bangor University invites engineers from different backgrounds, genders, and career paths to share their stories and lead activities.
As a follow-up session to the main experience, schools are invited to visit the department for further STEM workshops, giving students insight into both a STEM workplace and a university.
Key details
Improve engagement, interest or enjoyment in STEM subjects
Improve attainment and progress in STEM subjects
Improve awareness and aspirations for STEM-related study and careers
Challenge stereotypes by showing the diversity of disciplines, people and skills involved in engineering
Whichever curriculum your school follows, pupils should have the opportunity to carry out practical investigations in science that help them to develop their scientific skills. This experience builds the following enquiry skills:
The essential skills every young person needs to succeed in education and their future career. Find out more at the Skills Builder Partnership. This experience builds the following skills:
Problem solving - Finding solutions to challenges
Teamwork - Working cooperatively with others to achieve a shared goal
What the teachers sayLog in to write a testimonialWe would love to read all about your time with this experience!
Secondary
STEM Ambassadors from a wide range of STEM-related jobs to help bring subjects to life!
Secondary
An engaging, interactive online experience for students to use design thinking and technology to help solve real-world problems.
Secondary
Engineer your own machine, then bring it to life by coding the Crumble Microcontroller!
Secondary
Design and build a chariot to attach to the Sphero and carry a Lego figure around our race track!
Secondary
Empowering the digital innovators of tomorrow to develop a creative tech-based solution to address the unique theme of each monthly challenge.
Secondary
Students learn hands-on how engineers think & work while developing their problem solving and teamworking skills.
