6.4 Example 3: iLASER – Ireland’s National Photonics Education Initiative

The iLASER (Inspiring Laser Awareness in Schools through Educational Resources) initiative, led by researchers in Ireland, developed a toolkit for secondary science teachers to introduce laser physics and applications. Students learned about the electromagnetic spectrum, constructed their own simple laser devices using safe infrared LEDs and plastic optics, and explored laser safety, fiber optics, and medical imaging.

One of the highlights of the iLASER curriculum was the “Laser in Medicine” challenge, where students were tasked with designing a non-invasive diagnostic tool. They used AR simulations and digital schematics to design tools like wearable glucose monitors or non-contact skin cancer detectors. The program emphasized inquiry-based learning, peer collaboration, and real-world problem solving. (iLASER, 2021).