New Perspectives in Science Education

Ivor Hickey is a scientist who has published widely in the areas of cell biology, genetics and cancer research. He is concerned that the current nature of education in schools produces a population of undergraduates who are weak in the basic thinking skills and the creative attitudes to problem solving that are fundamental to successful careers in science and other occupations.
Working with his colleague, Deirdre Robson, he has developed a unique approach to education that develops transferrable skills and creativity without sacrificing subject knowledge and understanding. The method is known as The Leonardo Effect, and is based on interdisciplinary teaching of art and science where each subject is given equal weighting. The results are significant, especially in the areas of student literacy and motivation of disaffected learners.
He regularly speaks at conferences, organises in-service events and acts as a consultant and external examiner in education and science. His other interests include bioethics and environmental education.
Recent books include: The Leonardo Effect: Motivating Children to Achieve through Interdisciplinary Learning, Routledge Books, and the fourth edition of the popular genetics textbook Instant Notes in Genetics, Garland Science.