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1. What prompted you decide to participate in the "JSPS Science Dialogue" program?
Nurturing an interest in science is particularly important in the upper high-school level where students are thinking about subject choices and future career direction. There are not enough opportunities for students to meet and interact with scientists and understand what is involved in a scientific career. In short; I enjoy what I do, so I want to share it.
2. To what did you give greatest attention in preparing and giving the lecture?
Emphasizing, the applications, rather than the details of the science. Also, speaking about the lifestyle of scientific work (highly international, opportunities to travel, ongoing education, etc.).
3. Did you find it difficult to give a lecture in English to Japanese students? Could you give some advice to future lecturers on how to facilitate communication with Japanese students?
Yes, there were difficulties in communication and the students were frequently reluctant to ask for help or clarification. My advice would be to speak slowly and clearly. Ask interpreter for assistance when explaining difficult-to-understand topics. Communicate with interpreter before presentation about topic, keywords and objectives. I would find it more valuable for students see the interest and enthusiasm of working scientists than to learn and remember any particular details of the topic.
4. Could you give your impression with regard to participating in this program?
A very valuable experience, well organized by the JSPS and participating schools. It was interesting to gain some insight into the Japanese education system.
5. Was it meaningful in terms of your fellowship activities?
Not directly in terms of fellowship activities. However, as a practicing scientist, there is a responsibility to be an advocate for scientific education and to help foster the next generation of scientists.
6. In what ways do you think the students benefited from the program?
Meeting practicing scientists, practice in aural and verbal English. Working in groups to prepare presentations. Seeing several examples of current research topics (biological, space, mathematical) and being exposed to the highly international nature of scientific research.
7. Could you give some overall advice or comments to future participants in the program?
I would recommend making a strong effort to get the students to actively participate through asking questions, running experiments and so on.
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