Geophysicist Philip Heron is dedicated to promoting critical thinking in a world inundated with misinformation. He has introduced the Think Like a Scientist program to Canada after successfully launching it in the U.K. This program, spanning seven weeks, has not only been implemented in schools but also in correctional facilities.
Former participant Dalton Harrison, who took part in the inaugural prison session, now pursues a master’s degree in criminology. His transformative experience with the program led him to deliver a talk at Durham University, marking a significant turning point in his life.
Heron, an educator at the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus, emphasizes the importance of teaching the scientific method to diverse learners, including incarcerated individuals. The Think Like a Scientist course does not follow traditional classroom structures but fosters interactive discussions on various subjects like climate change, robotics, and space exploration.
Heron stresses the value of embracing failure, a crucial aspect of the scientific process. He encourages students to view setbacks as stepping stones to success, highlighting that failure is a common occurrence in scientific endeavors. By instilling this mindset, Heron aims to empower individuals to persevere and progress despite challenges.
Through the program, Heron also delves into space exploration topics, drawing parallels between managing mental health in space and coping with confinement. Former participants, like Phoenix Griffin, have been inspired to pursue academic paths post-program, citing newfound confidence and a positive attitude towards learning from mistakes.
Overall, Think Like a Scientist opens up new avenues for incarcerated individuals, instilling them with the confidence and skills to explore academic and personal growth opportunities.