The programme TANDEMkids aims at sparking pupil’s interest in the field of MINT (mathematics, information science, natural science and technology), to mediate fun and fascination in dealing with science and technology and to acquaint the pupils to the idea of a possible career in this field. In doing so, particularly girls should be encouraged to approach the MINT subjects with joy and without prejudices. The participation in the programme is free of charge and registration is possible at any time. The programme started in September 2009.

Target group

Pupils from the 7th and 8th grade, nationwide and from all kinds of schools

Mentors

Students or people doing a doctorate in MINT subjects at RWTH Aachen from the third semester. Students in the process of doing their teacher’s training certificate are able to receive credits for a one week practical training in the module “fascination technology” under specific circumstances (in process of planning: recognition and certification as qualified achievement in further subjects).

Objectives

• Promotion of interest and enthusiasm for MINT themes
• Support for the intensive engagement in MINT subjects and with the early career- and study orientation
• Mediation of a gender- and age-based glimpse into science and research
• Creation of an exchange process among people with similar interests
• Increase of social and communicative competences
• Improvement of media competence

The programme

The procedure of the mentoring programme is supported by the use of a web portal. The web portal contains, among a lot of information about the MINT themes, the possibility of an exchange of experiences and establishment of contacts between the mentees themselves as well as to their mentors. The intensive exchange between mentee and mentor takes place via electronic communication tools like e-mail, chat and forum. In addition the programme includes the participation at specific events and excursions.

The primary aim of the programme is to establish a playful, interesting and gender-equal approach to technical-natural scientific themes. A learning culture oriented on context design, the mediation of a positive future image and unprejudiced achievement motivation as well as a conclusive role model effect through the mentoring relationship help to establish options for equal job opportunities in the MINT field especially for girls.

The mentors are prepared for the effective and satisfying mentoring relationship with the help of specific trainings. Regular network meetings as well as further possibilities for training (e.g. writing workshops) complete the offer and support the aim of increasing social and communicative competence.

The mentoring programme is continuously evaluated and analysed regarding the attitudes towards MINT themes, expectations, interactions and effectiveness of the mentoring relationship as well as the exchange on the internet platform.

Contact Information

RWTH Aachen
Project Coordinator TANDEMkids
Stephanie Over M.A.

Integration Team – Human Resources, Gender and Diversity Management
Templergraben 55
D-52056 Aachen
Ph.: +49 (0)241 80-90553

tandemkids@igad.rwth-aachen.de
www.tandemkids.de