Twelfth Edition 'Scientific breakthroughs into the classroom!' is out

Were (orphaned) children in the former Dutch East Indies actually saved and what upbringing and education did they receive? Colonial systems had far-reaching consequences for children in colonised areas, which still resonate today. The research by Marit Monteiro, Maaike Derksen and Marleen Reichgelt has now been translated into teaching materials for primary education.

The teaching material can be found in the twelfth edition of the book series 'Scientific breakthroughs into the classroom! The content and activities were compiled by the Science Education Hub Radboud University (WKRU) in collaboration with researchers and teachers. The recently published book offers inspiration for teachers to shape their Science & Technology (S&T) lessons.

From winner to S&T activities

Prof Marit Monteiro, Dr Maaike Derksen and Marleen Reichgelt MA received a Radboud Science Award in July 2021 for their significant contribution to their field. Their research breaks the silence on the impact of 'civilisation offensives' on local children in the former Dutch colony of the Dutch East Indies. The effects of humanitarian projects to 'save' these children are still felt today. Their team's historical research exposes the colonial roots of this thinking and contributes to social debates about it. Together with Dalton primary school De Borgwal in Bemmel, the researchers tackled this theme and introduce pupils to the pupils of the Vincentius orphanage, using authentic sources from archives.

Other winners

Besides the research of Monteiro, Derksen and Rechgelt, the book also includes that year's other winners: Dr Johan Mentink (how can magnetism contribute to the data storage of the future?) and Prof Paul Bovend'Eert (research into the past of our royal family and his recommendations for a new role for the King and his family in the future).

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