Join Dr Phil Heron, Assistant Professor in Environmental Geophysics at the University of Toronto, for an engaging exploration of how critical thinking can be taught to underrepresented communities—particularly through the lens of prison education.
The Think Like A Scientist programme was designed to improve critical thinking and foster independent thought using adaptive education practices that create inclusive, accessible learning environments. Since launching in England in 2017, it has expanded to schools, adult learning centres, and prisons across England, Canada, Australia, Finland, and Spain.
Dr Heron will share how the programme addresses common barriers prison students face—including low educational confidence, sensory challenges, communication difficulties, and neurodivergent learning needs. He'll discuss the innovative teaching choices that increase engagement and how these principles can broaden participation in science for all marginalised groups. The lecture emphasises why society needs an informed, critically thinking population capable of navigating misinformation.
Schedule:
- 17:30–18:00: Arrival & refreshments (Lower Library)
- 18:00–19:00: Talk with Q&A
- 19:00–20:00: Drinks reception (Lower Library)
This is a hybrid event—attend in person at Burlington House, Piccadilly, London, or join online via Zoom.
