Enthusiasm and curiosity at the 18th Konstanz Children's University
In four lectures over four weeks, 200 children dealt with exciting topics from different subject areas. The enthusiastic young listeners thanked the professors like real students by tapping their hands on the bench.
The Friday afternoons in March were a hive of activity as pupils, accompanied by their parents, gathered on the Gießberg campus. Children from grades 3 to 6 from Constance, Reichenau, Allensbach and neighboring towns such as Singen, Engen, Radolfzell, Stockach, Gottmadingen, Friedrichshafen, Meersburg, Überlingen and even Kreuzlingen (CH) were eager to listen to the captivating lectures at the 18th Constance Children's University.
In four inspiring lectures, the young listeners delved into topics ranging from the role of microbes in the formation of coral reefs to the nature of different types of fruit. They learned whether computers have a super brain and how people can work together to bring about change. The speakers Prof. Dr. Christian Voolstra (Biology), Prof. Dr. Erika Isono (Biology), Dr. Barbara Pampel (Computer and Information Science) and Prof. Dr. Sebastian Koos (Sociology) not only inspired the students with their expert contributions, but also gave them a fascinating insight into the world of science, research and teaching.
The events were organized by the Relationship Management department in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Peter Kroth from the Department of Biology and received support from forum.konstanz, VEUK e. V. and the Südkurier newspaper. Participation in the lectures was free of charge and an online survey showed that the Children's University of Konstanz not only offers a fantastic opportunity for children to experience university life, but is also an uncomplicated way of opening up the university to parents and involving teachers from local schools.
The next Children's University is planned for March/April 2025 as part of the Konstanz Science Forum and once again promises fascinating insights into the world of science for young and curious minds.