The University of Iceland Science Centre

Vísindasmiðjan, or UniSci, is a small educational science centre in Reykjavík, managed by the University of Iceland. UniSci is also the anchor of the Knowledge Train, Háskólalestin, which tours Iceland with public science communication events.

The aim of the centre is to encourage young people’s interest in science in a lively, interactive and hands-on way.

At UniSci we have a variety of interactive tools and equipment that allow visitors to explore and experience the wonders of science. The centre has been very popular since it opened in 2012 and has been fully booked almost every day since.

School visits

UniSci offers school groups accompanied by their teachers the opportunity to visit the centre free of charge. The visit is aimed at students aged 11–15.

The maximum group size is 25 students, accompanied by at least two teachers.

To book a visit, please go to our booking page: visindasmidjan.hi.is/boka-tima

Each school visit is split into three main activities:

• An informal chat and activity based on a natural science theme.
• An introduction to the objects and equipment in the science centre.
• Free time to explore the centre.

Generally, the school group is split into two smaller groups. Each group spends around half an hour on the natural science activity and half an hour being introduced to the centre. After that, the groups come together again for free exploration.

The informal science activity varies depending on who is teaching at the centre that day. Subjects can include astronomy, windmill making, chemistry, mathematics, geology, plastics and biology. We also offer a variety of projects for teachers to use before and after the visit.

During the introduction to the centre, visitors get to know our collection of objects and exhibits that demonstrate physical phenomena in tangible ways. These include levitating magnets, pendulums, a drawing swing and much more. After the introduction, students have free time to explore the things they find most interesting in more depth.

Courses for teachers

UniSci regularly offers teacher training workshops in a variety of subjects, including programming with Raspberry Pi, Micro:bit, Scratch, Sphero, Blue-Bots, First LEGO League and more.

General public

UniSci often hosts open days for the general public, both at the centre itself and as pop-up activities at fairs, festivals and public events.

For future events, please follow our Facebook page.

Collaborations

UniSci works with a variety of partners, including the Department of Education and Youth and the Association of Chartered Engineers in Iceland, VFÍ. We also take part in international partnerships and science communication projects.

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/Visindasmidjan