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Joule Thief / History of the Transistor

The Joule Thief and the History of the Transistor

Joule Thief / History of the Transistor

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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

  • Workshops are available for groups of 5 to 30 students.

Learning outcomes

  • 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

Topics

  • Electricity

Working scientifically

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:

  • Asking questions
  • Observing and measuring

Essential 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

Good for a career in...

  • Electronics
  • Energy
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