The OU was delighted to welcome young researchers onto campus on Monday 22 July when the Children’s Research Centre held a Symposium Event to showcase Children's Research Centre young researchers’ projects for 2013. The Children's Research Centre was established by Professor Mary Kellett to promote children and young people's research voice by training and supporting them to investigate issues they identify as important. The Children's Research Centre offers diverse groups of children and young people a taught programme on all aspects of the research process followed by support to design and carry out an original research study. The event began with an opening address by Vice Chancellor, Martin Bean and research certificates were presented to the young people by Dr Maggie Atkinson, Children’s Commissioner for England. Young researcher presentations covered a diverse range of subjects including the London 2012 Olympics Legacy, young people’s interaction with video games and the impact of cerebral palsy on family life.
Prof Kellett commented "It’s always special when a group of young people get together to share their research findings. I’m constantly amazed at the quality of studies they produce and their insightful findings. It was a proud day for the Children's Research Centre".
Dr Cindy Kerawalla, Associate Director of the Children’s Research Centre said of the event; “This was a wonderful opportunity for young researchers to disseminate findings from their research to a diverse audience. By working with the Children's Research Centre the young people have not only learnt about how to conduct empirical research, they have also developed a wide range of life skills, such as critical thinking and self-motivation, that can help them succeed in whatever they choose to do in the future”.
To find out more about the Children’s Research Centre please visit our website.