I've really enjoyed this new discussion from
@Karen Brunyee looking at the use of microscopes in primary classrooms. As a secondary chemistry specialist I am always excited to see how practical working in science is incorporated into the primary classroom. It's amazing to see how everyday items can be repurposed as scientific apparatus however, sometimes there is no easy alternative with microscopes being a good example.
In the discussion there are some great suggestions from
@Nicholas Souter and
@Francesca Campbell for resources and where you can source some great value microscopes.
Have you used microscopes in the primary classroom? Join the discussion here to share your ideas with fellow members and maybe pick up some tips and tricks to develop your own practice too!Edit: I have just remembered...
@Karen Hornby posted this item in the 11-19 science group last month... It may be of interest and links with this topic on microscopes:
Some news from @Nicholas Souter about an article on designing a lego microscope (thank you to Nicholas for sharing)
This abstract and the conclusion within this paper looks as if it will be useful/of wider interest. The pdf of the full paper is available at:
Designing a high-resolution, LEGO-based microscope for an educational setting | bioRxiv
Abstract
Microscopy is an essential tool in many fields of science. However, due to their costs and fragility, the usage of microscopes is limited in classroom settings and nearly absent at home. In this article we present the construction of a microscope using LEGO® bricks and low-cost, easily available lenses. We demonstrate that the obtained magnification and resolution are sufficient to resolve micrometer-sized objects and propose a series of experiments that explore various biophysical principles. Finally, a study with students in the age range of 9 to 13 shows that the understanding of microscopy increases significantly after working with the LEGO microscope.
Conclusion
Using LEGO and low-cost, easily available lenses, it is possible to construct a microscope that can resolve micrometer-sized objects, with a resolution that is close to the diffraction limit of light. A series of experiments is suggested, covering different fields of natural sciences, that can be conducted with household ingredients. The modular design of the microscope itself also lets it easily be incorporated in a curriculum on optics. A preliminary study with 8 students in the age range of 9 to 13 shows that the understanding of microscopy increases after working with the LEGO-microscope.
Since the design of the microscope presented here is only one of many possible configurations, customization is highly encouraged.