Abstract:

Bringing science closer to secondary school students is essential to reduce the gap between classroom learning and professional scientific practice. Many young learners lack a realistic understanding of the university environment and research dynamics, which affects their ability to make informed decisions about their academic futures. To address this need, an initiative has been designed to allow high-school students to temporarily join a university setting and interact directly with active research groups.

The proposal consists of integrating students for one week into teams of 2–3 participants, each assigned to a research or work group and supervised by a university tutor. Under this guidance, students engage in activities linked to a real research project, combining theoretical instruction with hands-on experimentation. This approach enables participants to experience the scientific process first-hand, from understanding conceptual foundations to carrying out experimental tasks.

The methodology is structured around the development of a practical research case. A representative example focuses on challenges related to the circular economy, using sustainable technologies such as membrane-based separation processes. Through this case study, students explore the responsible use of natural resources, strategies for resource recovery, and the environmental relevance of emerging technological solutions.

During the first four days, students work with their tutors on the design, execution, and analysis of the project. On the final day, all groups deliver an oral presentation in which they share their results, discuss the knowledge acquired, and reflect on their overall experience. This collective closing session strengthens collaborative learning and helps assess the educational impact of the activity.

The initiative proves to be an effective tool for science popularization and public outreach. By providing direct exposure to university-level research, it fosters motivation toward STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines, offers students a more accurate perception of scientific and engineering work, and helps guide them toward technological academic and professional pathways.

Keywords:

Science Outreach, Chemical Engineering, Student Engagement, Hands-on Science Education, Circular Economy Education.