Writing for 'Primary Science Journal'.

Hi there,

I am a proud member of the Association of Science Education (ASE) 'Primary Science Journal' (PSJ) Editorial Board and really love contributing to the journal, regarding issues I feel passionately about that relate to Science/STEM education.

Although I had not written a journal article before, I was so pleased when my work was published in the PSJ January 2019 issue 'Curiosity', with support and encouragement from the wonderful Dr Leigh Hoath (and other colleagues). Leigh was PSJ Editor until recently succeeded by Robert Collins. This has undoubtedly enabled me to develop in my role as Science Lead at our school and in becoming a Primary Science Consultant in a wider way. 

Articles have included 'Developing the Engineering in STEM' (Issue 161, Jan/Feb 2020) which shared ongoing development of Primary Engineering learning at my school (Burlington Junior School in Bridlington) with our partners, SEERIH/ The Royal Academy of Engineering. Also, 'A Coastal View of a Global Problem' (Issue 162, March 2020) which is a vitally important topic that desperately needs action. In Issue 165, 'Gender in Science', my article related to 'Bridging the STEM Skills Gap: Careers Information at Primary School (Nov 2020). The importance of developing careers information at an early age is the cause close to my heart which was discussed here after I completed my research project for a Masters in Education- where the effect of STEM careers education on Y6 pupils was studied.

In the Special Issue (165, January 2021) about the Great Science Share (GSSfS), I was interviewed by Dr Lynne Bianchi to share the way GSS has supported more of a team ethos between primary schools in our local area. 'A community affair- the Bridlington Way' highlighted how and why this was most positive/rewarding and enabled best practise to be shared between pupils and staff.

My article about Dr Anjana Khatwa focused on stereotyping and misconceptions about who can work in STEM- and the impact she had on our pupils (Diversity in Science issue 169, September 2021). She is an amazing role model and really opened the eyes of many of our pupils who live in a low socio-economic, white British area of the country. She was so empowering as a happy, successful, confident female who has achieved many of her ambitions including becoming an Earth Scientist and also appearing in various roles in television/media- she has become a 'go-to' person in her field.

'Why Children Challenging Industry is so important' in the CIEC Special Issue (also 169, and open access) showed the journey our school has started relating to Children Challenging Industry and why we feel it is so important. This is a free access article- see the link below.

www.ase.org.uk/system/files/PS%20CIEC%20Special%20Issue%20pp6-8.pdf

My up-and-coming article, (May/June 22)- 'In conversation with... Dr Claire Lee' is due to be published soon and I am really happy to share the interesting interview with and about Claire’s life and career- including the fascinating human side of her personal learning journey.

 

As you can see from the themes of these articles, you can choose to submit for an issue which is particularly interesting to you- in these cases, the text came from lived experience, passion for the topic and developed understanding, which I found easier to write about- and extremely rewarding. It is great to share best practice and participate in such a highly revered publication that can share messages and potentially be cascaded in a much further way. This can lead to links and opportunities into other areas of the primary science community. It was amazing to go on and write about my Masters Research Project for the ASE Journal of Emergent Science (JES) in June 2021 (Issue 21).


https://www.ase.org.uk/system/files/journal-issue/documents/JES%2021%20June%202021.pdf


I absolutely love being part of the Science Education Community, which is so encouraging and positive, and I would strongly recommend venturing into writing for the PSJ- where you will find many supportive voices and encouragement, plus constructive tips to develop from Board members such as myself- with various specialisms. I am happy to signpost anyone- who would like to suggest their idea for a future article- to relevant information and guidance @katesutton70 @PriSciJournal 

 

I hope I have inspired some new writers- you certainly would not regret it!

Thank you for reading. See you again soon.

Kate





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