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Photo by Mufid Majnun on Unsplash
Every virologist understands the importance of virology and how it affects various aspects of the world and its general health. However, while you know why you are so important, other people–especially children–may not recognize or be aware of the crucial role virologists play in medicine. So how can you change that and ensure the next generation grows up passionate about healthcare? As a virologist, you need to share your work and knowledge, and here are some tips to do that.
Live Demonstrations
Live demos are some of the best ways to educate and inspire. Virologists can hold an experiment in the classroom or at their laboratory and answer questions, while virology lab services can also provide detailed information about their work. Since you can’t see a lot with the naked eye when it comes to science, the creative approach is a great way to keep students engaged and you can make everything come to life in various ways to keep them engaged and fully understand the role you play.
Field Trips
Similarly, students can visit laboratories and get a real-life look at what goes on. While they may not see any exploding beakers or genetically engineered fruits and vegetables, they can still develop an appreciation for the work virologists put into their careers. Those interested in a career can also better understand how the average day goes, meaning they will be more comfortable and prepared on their first day.
Making Information Easy to Understand
Science can be tricky for many people to understand. While some will trust the experts and accept that treatments work just because others prefer to know the ins and outs. However, since some topics can be complicated, especially for kids to understand, virologists and similar scientists can find ways to make the information easy to understand. Finding comparisons with their favourite TV shows or characters is a good place to start, and avoiding technical jargon will also keep them engaged.
Work Experience Opportunities
If students are considering careers in the science field, you should open your lab to give them the chance to spend a week there during their work experience program. While you can’t trust them with too many vital responsibilities, they can experience a real-life lab that will help them appreciate the work that goes into developing vaccines and other treatments and they may get the experience to open up plenty of doors for them in their future.
New Ways to Educate
Although you aren’t a teacher, you can work with schools to explore different teaching methods that can help you communicate ideas and methods that highlight your role in medicine. Virologists can enter collaborative relationships with local schools that build upon a special appreciation for medicine and science overall, and you can see which methods work or require improvement when working with different age groups.
An Important Role
Virologists play a significant role in medicine and the overall well-being of humanity. Students, especially younger students developing an interest in STEM, need to know these benefits to inspire them to pursue a career and explore the various positive changes they can bring to the world.