Vmbo students and academics answer real-life research questions in vlogs

Eight members of the Utrecht Young Academy and sixteen vmbo (pre-vocational secondary education) students created vlogs together on themes such as climate change, identity and the power of language. On 4 March 2020, the students and academics presented the vlogs during an interactive presentation, where they explained what they have learned from the collaboration. 

Students and academics at the vlog premiere

How can we bridge the gap between researchers and vmbo students? Using this starting point, the Utrecht Young Academy and non-profit organization JINC initiated a vlog project in early January. In this project, vmbo students and academics came together three times and created a vlog based on research questions that youngsters may wonder about. For example, is life possible on another planet? What can we buy at the local supermarket thanks to European trade? How long can plastic persist in the ocean? The aim of the project was to gain insights into each other’s world and learn something new together. Furthermore, the vmbo students experienced what it takes to be a researcher and vlogger, which contributes to their orientation on future plans. 

Wednesday March 4, a special premiere of the vlogs concluded the project. Students, members of the Utrecht Young Academy and JINC colleagues gathered in the University Hall to watch the vlogs together and discuss the project. Curious to see the vlogs? Take a look below! (English subtitles available)

We believe that we should be involved within society as a university.

  • Genderstereotypes

    Who cares if you were born male or female!? Sarah and Eren investigate this in their vlog. 

  • How do you make plastic soup?

    There's an enormous plastic soup in the ocean. But how do you make yourself? Mark and Rick go and find that out, and discover how big (or small) the problem of plastic in the pollution is.

  • What will the weather be like in 2050?

    How will the Dutch weather change as a result of climate change?

  • What do people nowadays think of medieval swear words?

    ‘Crook’ and ‘nightmare’: did you know these words used to be very offensive 600 years ago? Uttering those could result in considerable fines and/or penalties. High-school students Buket and Damla ask people for their opinion on the two medieval insults in Utrecht - The Netherlands. Literary and cultural historian Martine explains why these words were insulting.

  • I bet you we can read through a brain!

    Brain researchers claim that they can read through the brain. Kevin and Joni are doubtful and bet they can’t!

  • Where in the universe can we find life?

    Take a journey with Arne, Frances and Robin as they explore 3 of the most likely places we could find extraterrestrial life.

  • What did you say?!?

    Sana and Katelyn wonder what’s behind the annoying remarks that pupils sometimes hear in school.

  • Can you take the EU home?!

    The European Union is a group of 27 countries, including the Netherlands. One of the important aspects of the EU is its internal market, which allows the Netherlands to import many products. Also to your supermarket!