Are you thinking about studying a science subject at university?
This unique pre-university course is specifically designed for high school students who are planning to pursue an undergraduate degree in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). During an intensive 2-week programme, you will have the opportunity to explore different types of data used in STEM research.
In this course you will develop key skills for undergraduate study in hypothesis testing. You will be introduced to basic statistical analytical methods, so you can ask and answer your own scientific questions using data. You will get the chance to use a variety of computational tools in this practical-based course.
Key information
Subject
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Course teacher
Andrea Moore
Credit bearing
No
Eligibility
Students must be in their penultimate or final year of high school and aged 16-18 years.
Students should not have any previous undergraduate learning experience and should have strong interest in science. This does not need to include knowledge of probability or statistics. No knowledge of computer programming is required. Students should have completed mathematics up to SCQF level 5 GCSE/SQA National 5/IB MYP or secondary school certificate/diploma, or equivalent. If you are unsure, then please contact col.admissions@ed.ac.uk.
Language requirements
Applicants should meet the minimum English language requirements in order to fully benefit from, and engage with, Summer School courses. Your English language ability must be equivalent to, or above, 6.5 IELTS overall with 5.5 in each component.
Device requirements
Course materials will be delivered via the University of Edinburgh's Virtual Learning Environment. To access these materials, you will require a suitable device, such as a laptop or tablet.
Teaching location
Holyrood Campus
Dates
tbc 2025
Length
2 weeks
Contact hours
30
Course fee
tbc
Application deadline
tbc 2025 (17:00 - BST)
Andrea Moore is one of the STEM teaching fellows at the University of Edinburgh Centre for Open learning, where she works with students delivering STEM courses. Andrea has over 13 years of experience in chemistry education, having taught chemistry at secondary and college levels internationally before joining the university. She is passionate about making chemistry accessible and engaging for all students.
Andrea received her degree in chemistry from the University of Glasgow and studied her PGDE at Strathclyde University, also in Glasgow. Her research focused on developing new methodologies in organic synthesis and spectroscopy.
At the University of Edinburgh, Andrea designs curriculum, teaches short courses and summer STEM courses, and mentors' students in STEM research projects. She aims to foster an inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to explore chemistry and all aspects of STEM.
You will explore what data is and the different types found across various science disciplines. Data will be explored in the context of the data science life cycle alongside how best to manage different data and where and how to obtain data.
You will have the opportunity to develop your data science skills through:
- interpreting and critically analysing scientific data
- using basic statistical and computational tools
- creating and testing hypotheses
- using the data science life cycle
- working collaboratively with peers
- communicating scientific research
The structure of this course is designed to provide you with an immersive experience, giving you a taster of undergraduate study, as well as providing a unique Edinburgh-based summer school opportunity.
Classes will combine mini-lectures and practical sessions. You will also get expert advice and support in developing your academic language and literacy skills and will receive information on how to apply to a UK university from our University Admissions team.
To successfully complete this course and achieve all learning outcomes you should attend all in-person sessions, actively engage with all learning, work with peers in a collaborative manner and take responsibility for your own personal organisation and study. Teachers will support you to be successful by providing a supportive learning environment in which they shall share regular, meaningful feedback which you should reflect on and use at a future opportunity.
Week 1 and 2
Mon - Fri (10:00-13:00)
Sample timetable for information - please note that we will share a final timetable with students prior to arrival.
On completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain what data and the data science life cycle is.
- Generate and capture some data of their own.
- Describe which statistical method is appropriate for a given data set and hypothesis to be tested.
- Use technology and statistical methods to analyse, manipulate and communicate data.
- Summarise and communicate a data science investigation.
We want all Pre-university students to have an enjoyable experience in Edinburgh. We have robust safeguarding measures in place to support students, and look after their safety and welfare during their stay.
The course fee includes accommodation during your study. Please see our Accommodation section for more information.
To ensure your experience at the University of Edinburgh's Summer School is memorable, we encourage all students to embrace the city and its culture and take part in the variety of social activities available.
Applications have now closed for 2024.