Institution news
The event was attended by 200 people at One Birdcage Walk, who enjoyed a lively, interactive presentation by What on Earth Publishing CEO and author Christopher Lloyd. Institution CEO, Stephen Tetlow, and President, Patrick Kniveton, also attended the occasion.
Stephen Tetlow said: “Top of the list of our members’ priorities for the Institution is the need to inspire the next generation of engineers. That is the reason we devote a huge amount of the resources of the Institution to provide outreach activities in schools and why we have sponsored this amazing book. It is a truly innovative approach to science and engineering from a truly inspirational author. It shows in unique, entertaining and highly engaging ways how engineers have shaped our lives and improved our world. It’s a “must read” and great for schools as well as to read at home. I am delighted we have become co-sponsors together with the Science Museum and it will do a huge amount to help inspire the next generations of engineers.”
The What on Earth? Wallbook of Science & Engineering – the fourth in a series so far that also covers history, natural history and sport – charts human scientific discoveries and inventions in a versatile large-canvas format. Intricately illustrated by Andy Forshaw, the Wallbook presents landmark information using timelines and an engaging news-reporting style. Opened out to its full extent of 2.3 metres, it can be read on the floor or on the wall, and is a brilliant vehicle to stimulate discussion and learning for all ages. The Wallbook was co-sponsored by the Institution and the Science Museum.
Christopher Lloyd said: “The launch was overseen by the inspiring portrait of George Stephenson! My talk followed the path of 14 of the most extraordinary moments in the history of science and engineering, from the Stone Ages to the present day. Using some of the categories represented in the Wallbook, we explored discoveries across a complete spectrum, from abstract (maths and measurement) to infinity (sky and space).”
Along the way different scientists and engineers were ‘offered up’ for votes from the audience – depending on the perceived impact they have had on planet, civilisation and people – to award them either a ‘Golden Globe’ or a ‘Wooden Spoon’. In this way the additional story of ‘unintended consequences’ emerged from the list of extraordinary achievements humans have made thanks to their brains and hands over the last 10,000 years.
Patrick Kniveton said: “The Wallbook is exciting and entertaining, and just as incredibly interesting to a 60-year-old as to a six-year-old (and I’m nearly the former!). It answers the question ‘why are we here’, as much for the human race as for the Institution. I encourage as many members as possible to use this great new device to tell the story of the development of engineering, science, and humankind, and how we are proud to be engineers.”
A further launch event was held at the Science Museum’s IMAX Theatre a week later, where Jonathan Newby, CEO of the Science Museum group introduced the presentation, saying:“The Wallbook [offers] a genuinely innovative, engaging approach to learning about science, the people behind the science and the incredible achievements that have been made over hundreds of years. This is just the kind of venture we seek to be involved with.”
Chris described the reaction from the public: “So far we have been inundated with enthusiastic reactions to the book from teachers, students and parents.”
He went on to explain how he facilitated a one-hour workshop using the new Wallbook at a Year 7 summer camp in Birmingham. The following session was on kite-making, and Chris learned that: “One of the students had designed their kite all round the concept of e=mc2. It was wonderful to see how science, maths, kite-engineering and art all converged in this young person's mind!”
Earlier in the year the Institution ran a competition to win a copy of the Wallbook and the three lucky winners are: Nicholas Cowley, Claire Allison and Peter Hardyman, who have each received a copy of The What on Earth? Wallbook of Science & Engineering.
Special offer
Members of the Institution can claim £5 discount off The What on Earth? Wallbook of Science & Engineering until 24 December 2013 (normal price £15).
The £5 discount is also applicable to the gift pack of all four Wallbooks (Science & Engineering, History, Nature and Sport) (normal price £45).
Enter the code: IMECHE at the checkout only at: www.whatonearthbooks.com