Future Environmental Data Scientists
This free course aims to introduce upper primary school pupils (aged 7 to 12 years old) to environmental data science through six core lessons of around one hour each. The programme involves the pupils working in small groups to design and complete an environmental project focusing on a specific part of environmental science e.g. ecology, weather, or geography. The pupils will go outdoors to collect data, which they will analyse by producing graphs and maps. The pupils will also get a chance to share their findings with the rest of the class. Furthermore, the results from some projects could be compared with results from neighbouring schools to allow wider datasets and discussion.
To get started just click on lesson 1 (introduction) in the menu above to access teaching materials and worksheets. Then follow on with each of the six lessons.
Please leave feedback of what parts of the course you enjoyed and how it could be improved for future pupils (see form at bottom of page).
Thank you :)
Benefits include:
Building curiosity about the natural world
Digital learning
FREE teaching resources
Outdoor learning
Team work
Some example of course materials
Discover how our free online teaching materials brings environmental data science to life for upper primary school pupils. This slideshow is some real work from students engaging in hands-on data collection, collaborative analysis, and real-world application of environmental concepts.
Thank you to the pupils of Abernyte Primary School for being such great guinea pigs!
About me
Hello! I’m Dr. Sarah Donoghue.
I’m an Environmental Data Scientist at the University of Edinburgh and a mum of three. I’m passionate about equipping children with data analysis skills from a young age, because I believe that anyone can learn to make sense of data.
At the same time, I want my children to develop curiosity about the natural world. That’s why I’ve created these learning materials: to help teachers introduce Environmental Data Science into the classroom, and to empower young minds to connect data with the environment around them.
I hope these resources inspire a new generation of curious, capable environmental data scientists!
What Participants Are Saying
“The environmental data science program provided an enriching experience for our students, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological concepts and data analysis.”
Samantha, Science Teacher
Outdoor digital learning for 7 - 12 year olds
Hands-On Projects
Interactive Data Tools
Engaging Group Activities
Real-World Application