Citizen scientists
Each year a National Project is run as part of National Science Week so that everyone around the country can participate in science and be part of the national celebrations.
In past years we have given ourselves a fright as we completed a national fear survey, explored the task of managing a river catchment through the Catchment Detox game, and searched the night skies to examine light pollution. The project usually has an engaging online component and activities for you to try at home or in the classroom. Sometimes we have been able to assist research scientists by gathering valuable scientific data for their studies.
Our 2011 project is now open! - go on, take the test!
Are you a good multi-tasker?
The 2011 National Project Multi-Tasking Test is now open and will run all through National Science Week and into September!
It seems we’re multi-tasking more than ever, but are we any good at it?
Multi-taskers constantly switch between tasks, rather than finishing one task before moving on to the next. Some multi-tasking is essential to get through life but multi-task too often and you may be affecting not only your ability to perform tasks but also your ability to focus and ignore distractions. Often the people who multi-task the most are the worst at it!
So what makes a person able to successfully prioritise and juggle tasks? Is there an underlying cognitive factor that makes some of us good at multi-tasking? Could it be related to memory? Ability to focus? Age? Scientists from the University of Queensland’s School of Psychology and Queensland Brain Institute are asking just these questions and they need YOU to help them find the answers.
Throughout the month of August we’ll be looking for people all over Australia to take the online multi-tasking test. All you’ll need is a computer with an internet connection and about 20 minutes of time. By getting involved you’ll find out something about how well you multi-task as well as contributing to a real scientific research project!
Once you've completed the Multi-tasking Test you will have the option to enter a competition to win a new phone, tablet or camera to the value of $1000. The competition closes on September 12 2011 and the winner will be contacted and announced online on September 28 2011.