About the project

NANOYOU (Nano for Youth) is a project funded by the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme that aims to increase young people’s basic understanding of nanotechnologies (NT) and to engage in the dialogue about its ethical, legal and social aspects (ELSA).

Nanotechnologies are the design, characterisation, production and application of structures, devices and systems by controlling shape and size at nanometer scale - the scale of individual molecules, where properties differ significantly from those at a larger scale. NTs will impact the life of every citizen. They are already revolutionising different disciplines in science, such as medicine, computing sciences and energy production. 

Although NTs are being developed to provide benefits, some of these new applications may have harmful effects under certain circumstances. Therefore, citizens need to be informed in order to weigh benefits versus hypothetical risks so that they can make a real contribution to future decision-making. Moreover, at this early stage of development, when just a few applications have reached the market, it is a critical moment for potential communication on NTs.

Who is it for?

Nanoyou's target audience is composed of young people in the 11-25 age group. At least 400 schools are meant to participate, with programmes reaching more than 25,000 students. The science centres programme is expected to reach an initial 4,000 young adults, followed by many more as more science centres adopt the programme.

How are we going to do it?

Nanoyou will carry out a strong educational curriculum for young people aged 11-18 and a wide range of activities in science centres for those in the 18-25 age group. As effective programming needs to be tailored to the educational capabilities and interests of all slots casino the target population, specialized syllabi will be provided for subgroups within this youth population.

The Web Portal will also serve as a tool for information dissemination. A range of virtual activities are available, as well as a communication space with virtual forums where students can engage in different dialogues. Moreover, a strong network allows different institutions and schools to share experiences and resources.

Activities and materials will include:

• Video and posters with information about nanoscience and nanotechnologies and their fields of application
• Online animations, simulations and virtual experiments based on current research
• NTs time machine game invites students to travel through human needs, looking at past, present and possible future solutions
• “What are nanotechnologies?” workshop, where nanotechnologies will be introduced through games such as a nano-memory game and nano jigsaw puzzle.
• A role play workshop that will present dilemmas where students will choose different stakeholder roles.
• Virtual dialogues that will enhance students’ discussion on different nanotechnologies topics and will allow them to communicate with each other through a forum on the project website. 

Nanoyou objectives:

• Facilitating access to educational resources on nanotechnologies with a European dimension among schools, museums and science centres from more than 20 countries.
• Providing young citizens with a solid science basis together with ethical, legal and social aspects (ELSA) so that they are able to make informed decisions
• Offering a two-way communication tool among citizens, educators and scientists with different perspectives in order to attain a trustworthy relationship
• Promoting social acceptance of nanotechnology, with mechanisms for citizens to give their opinion, at a moment when NTs applications are emerging
• Encouraging scientific vocations amongst European youth