International School of Bergen students visit the Centre
After studying biodiversity in class, Grade 4 students from the International School of Bergen (ISB) discovered marine species at the Michael Sars Centre.
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The visit began with a short presentation about the Centre’s research and the model organisms studied by researchers. Guided by scientific and technical staff, the students then toured the animal facilities where they experienced a hands-on encounter with sea squirts - which left participants slightly wet, and watched a demonstration of the fluorescent properties of symbiotic sea anemones.
In the Ciona facility, the students got a chance to hold a sea squirt.
Excited exclamations filled the air in each facility, quickly followed by a stream of questions. The curious 10-year-olds were captivated by the marine species, many of which they had never seen before. “I think the sea animals were very fascinating and especially the glowing anemones”, one young participant shared. For another, comb jellies were the highlight: “I really appreciate that you let us come and visit. I really liked the sea walnut because it is so colorful”, they said.
Staff engineer Alexandre Jan showed comb jellies to the class.
Brandon Mellin, a research technician in the Cnidaria facility, emphasized that sharing our research with members of the public is an essential part of the work conducted at the Centre. “I believe that scientific outreach is as important as the science itself. Without outreach, the public does not have the opportunity to understand how important research is for everyone,” he explained. Hosting young visitors also renews his own appreciation for the Centre’s work. “The children approach things with a sense of wonder and amazement that is truly inspiring,” he added.
"Without outreach, the public does not have the opportunity to understand how important research is for everyone"- Brandon Mellin
The students were accompanied by their teacher, David Fox, who described the visit as a great success. “When asked if there was anything they would change or improve, only one student said they wanted more time there,” he noted. “I think this highlights what a great time they had.”
