FAQs

Wee Science has developed a list of questions that are frequently asked. For additional information, please email us at wee.science@ed.ac.uk

What does a visit involve?

Participating in a study involves a visit to our lovely new lab at 7 George Square; a visit typically lasts from 30 to 60 minutes. We will meet you and your family outside the building, and take you downstairs to the lab. Visits usually begin with 10 to 15 minutes of free play for your child, while we explain what will happen. Then we’ll begin the study, which typically takes from 10 to 20 minutes. You will be with your child at all times. After that, you’ll have the opportunity to ask more questions, and hang out in the lab for as long as you like. We’ll give you a Peter’s Yard voucher as a thank you: some hot chocolate makes a nice treat for the child scientists after all their hard work.

What happens in a study?

Our studies tend to take one of two forms. When we study young babies, we typically show them animated movies or pictures, and track where they look. For instance, we might show a movie of a person talking, and examine how interested they are in the face, versus the person’s gestures. With older children, we tend to play short, fun games. For instance, we might have them describe a series of pictures, or act out instructions using some toys.

How can I take part?

If you’re interested in taking part in a study, or just want to learn more, you can send us an email on wee.science@ed.ac.uk or send us a message through Facebook. One of our researchers will get back to you shortly. Please mention how old your children are

How do I schedule an appointment?

When your child is the right age for a study, one of our researchers will get in contact to tell you about it. If you are interested in taking part, they will schedule you for an appointment. Participation is voluntary, so if the timing doesn’t work, you can decline to come in. And if you decide you are no longer interested in being involved, we will remove your details from our database.

If I take part, what happens to my child’s data?

We study many children for each study, and then average the data to see if they behave in similar ways. We present the resulting data patterns at academic conferences, and publish them in articles. We also make sure that all the personal data that we collect is kept confidential to Wee Science, especially names and contact details.

How do I get to Wee Science?

We are centrally located at 7 George Square, in the Department of Psychology at Edinburgh University. The Department is on the North side of George Square (right next to the police box serving espresso!). Plenty of buses run nearby, and there is metered parking outside the building.

Can I bring my other children?

Absolutely! Our waiting room is stuffed full of toys to keep kids entertained. If you let us know in advance, we will ensure that a research assistant is there to “sibling-sit”.

How do I find out more?

We love talking to the general public about baby and child science! We would be delighted to give informal talks at preschools, parent groups, or other organisation. Just send an email to wee.science@ed.ac.uk.

Who runs Wee Science?

The lab is run by a group of researchers in Edinburgh University’s Departments of Psychology and Linguistics, including Bonnie Auyeung, Nic Chevalier, Alex Doumas, Mits Ota, Hugh Rabagliati, and Barbora Skarabella. We’re supported by a fantastic bunch of research assistants, PhD students and undergraduates.