August 2016

Residential Summer Programme – Learning About Science And Religion

BEING HUMAN: GENES, ROBOTS AND THE SOUL

A unique opportunity to explore in depth topics of Space, Genetics, Robotics, Neuroscience, Philosophy and Theology and answer the question What makes us human?

Location: Reading University

Sunday 31st July – Thursday 4th of August 2016

£220 (part scholarships available)

Contact Zoe at LASAR@reading.ac.uk for more information and an application form.

What is the programme all about?:

LASAR (Learning about Science and Religion) has organised an eventful week of activities for teenagers to ask and discuss big questions this summer. Topics to include Genetics,  Robotics, Space and What it means to be human.

Dig into the past to find out where humans are from, learn who you are by studying your DNA and explore the future of science by building your own robot.

This week long residential programme is full of workshops, activities and experiments designed to get you thinking.

What can I expect from the week?

You will learn from top scientists, philosophers, engineers and theologians in a number of settings. You will stay in the university’s picturesque accommodation. There will be plenty of chance to enjoy the summer weather and meet new people.

This unique programme will

* Be a great addition for your CV and UCAS form

* Help you develop your academic and presentation skills

* Provide a certificate of attendance with details of your project work

A typical day will look as follows:

08:00-09:00 Breakfast

09:00-10:30 Session 1: Interactive talk

10:30-11:00 Morning break

11:00-12:30 Session 2: Interactive workshop

13:00-14:00 Lunch

14:00-16:00 Session 3: Science activity

16:00-18:00 Recreational activities

18:00-19:00 Evening meal

19:00-21:00 Evening activity

21:00-22:00 Hot chocolate in small groups

22:00-23:00 Video-blogs and Free time

What topics will be discussed?

With an exciting programme of speakers, workshops and activities you can expect the following topics and more:

Can a robot have a mind?

What do scholars say about whether  science and religion can agree?

Build and program you own robot!

Extract DNA!

Find out about the brain and the mind? Are they the same?

Look closer at what popular culture says about the topics!

Who can apply?

Our residential programme is ideal for students in years 11-12. If you are studying, or thinking about studying science, theology, philosophy, R.S. or if you’re simply interested in the topics, then this is the programme for you! Stretch your knowledge and learn more about what it means to be human. All students are expected to attend the whole week where possible.

What should I do next?

Contact Zoe at LASAR@reading.ac.uk for more information or an application form.

The cost of the week includes all accommodation, meals, equipment and resources including parts to build a robot of your own. Participating students will be able to take their creations home.