84 Bugs and our Airways: Successful Development and Evaluation of a School Outreach Project

Abstract

Abstract Increased awareness of air pollution and its potential health impacts has led to many national and international ‘clean air’ initiatives. However, what do we really mean by ‘clean air’? While the recent pandemic has highlighted the consequences of infectious disease, many remain less aware of the impact biological airborne particles (so-called bioaerosols) can have on non-communicable diseases such as allergy and asthma. This project aimed to improve children’s understanding of bioaerosols and their positive and negative associations with airway and lung health. We trialled three sessions over a three-week period in primary school children aged 10-11 years to discuss bioaerosols and health within an engaging and educational framework, with the added benefit of promoting STEM and inspiring them to think about the range of careers within environmental science and public health. Sessions included a mixture of presentations and interactive activities. At the end of each session, we conducted evaluation sessions with both students and teachers. Children engaged well with the subject material, enthusiastically contributed to discussions and activities, and provided useful feedback for further improvements. They particularly enjoyed the hands-on activities and demonstrations, and the teacher commented that the sessions complemented the curriculum by linking new concepts to existing knowledge. This project encouraged two-way engagement between multidisciplinary researchers, teachers and children to develop engaging, fun and educational activities. This will provide a legacy of resources and expertise to expand across the wider schools’ networks, building excellent public engagement capacity and capability.