Young Scientists get new category

A new technology category is to be added to the 2001 Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition at the RDS.

Entries to the new category can include projects on the Internet, communications, electronic systems, robotics, computing, automation and innovative gadgets. The new category is designed to complement and provide alternatives to the traditional exhibition categories.

Cool Science and Sticky Science, a series of science-themed lectures, will form another new attraction at the exhibition in January. The lectures, hosted by Mr Randal Hendley, are open to both students and the public and will be held three times each day throughout the exhibition. The organisers promise that the lectures will be "very accessible" and interactive and will appeal to children and adults.

Making its second appearance at the exhibition is Future Zone - educational bodies and institutes, along with prospective employers, will be available to give students career advice and information and to highlight the opportunities open to them in specific scientific work disciplines.

New for teachers this year is the primary science workshop, which is being launched to coincide with the introduction of the new primary science curriculum.

Teachers will also have access to an on-site computer-training village which will allow them to experience the latest computer packages and brush up on Internet skills. A series of conferences for teachers covering all area of IT will be run during the event.

Application forms and full information packs are currently being issued to all schools. Students can also find application forms on the exhibition website at www.esatys.ie. The closing date for entries is October 6th.